Chapter 205: I Will Not Tolerate It
The chaotic scene, thick with accusations and whispered conversations, was suddenly cleaved by the new, commanding voice. As a figure strode onto the stage, his presence radiating an undeniable aura of power and authority. It was Levi Van Doren.
He moved with a purposeful stride, his gaze sweeping across the room, taking in the scene with a single, sharp glance. He stopped near Lyse, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. His touch was gentle, but his expression was firm, his eyes blazing with a protective fire.
"I apologize for the interruption," he said, his voice resonating through the room, silencing the murmurs and whispers. "My name is Levi Van Doren. I am Lyse’s husband."
A collective gasp rippled through the audience. The revelation of Lyse’s marital status added another layer of intrigue to the already dramatic situation. All eyes were now on Levi, wondering what he would say next.
"I had not intended to wade into this situation, since my wife was unaware that I was in the audience." Levi said, while Lyse blushed beside him. She had not wanted him there because she knew he had a lot going on at work, but his presence felt like a calming balm.
He glanced at her for a long moment then he continued, his voice calm and measured. "I trusted that the truth would prevail. However, Ms. Brooke has seen fit to invoke my name, and I will not stand idly by while she attempts to tarnish my reputation, or more importantly, my wife’s."
He turned his gaze to Brooke, who stood frozen, her face pale and drawn. "Brooke," he said, his voice laced with steel, "you have accused me of...manipulating the outcome of this competition. Let me assure you, I have no need to manipulate anything. My wife is an exceptionally talented designer. She does not need my help to win. Her work speaks for itself."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in. Then, he dropped another bombshell.
"In fact," he continued, his voice low and dangerous, "Brooke Chadwick’s...success...in the past has been largely based on...borrowed talent. Talent that belongs to her half-sister, Lyse."