Chapter 863 Xavier Arrived
"Thank you so much, Andarta Aria, for sharing such an incredible piece with us—and for your clarification. Please, leave the rest to us," one of the judges said, his tone noticeably gentler as he looked kindly at Hera.
Now that Hera had successfully established herself as the victim, sympathy naturally flowed toward her. The judges regarded her with newfound warmth and understanding. Their softened voices and expressions reflected not only respect but also empathy—because they understood just how devastating it was to pour one’s heart and soul into a design, only to have it stolen and claimed by someone else.
It was a betrayal that struck deep. In truth, at least 20% of the people in the industry had experienced something similar. That shared pain made Hera’s situation all the more relatable and emotional, and it moved many of them to stand firmly by her side.
As for Alice, there was no need to deliberate. Not only was she immediately disqualified, but news of her deceit had already spread like wildfire. Her reputation was in ruins. Being blacklisted was inevitable. Wherever she went, the stain of her actions would follow. Unless she changed her name—and her face—her days as a jewelry designer were effectively over.
Because of the controversy Hera stirred and the dramatic turn of events, none of the remaining candidates’ designs could hold the judges’ or the audience’s attention. Everyone was too distracted, eager to see what would happen next—especially concerning Alice’s fate.
As soon as Hera stepped off the stage, before Antoine or Alexandre could move, a figure swiftly passed them and went straight to her, pulling her into a firm hug. Both men froze in place, eyes widening at the unexpected sight.
"Who are you?!" Antoine demanded sharply, his eyes glaring at the man now holding Hera.
Only then did the man glance their way, though Hera’s face was still buried in his chest.
"Her man," Xavier answered with pride, his voice firm and confident. As he spoke, he instinctively puffed up his chest. After all, this was the first time he and the others had been openly acknowledged by Hera as her boyfriends. The realization sent a rush of happiness and adrenaline through him, and he could feel his heart pounding wildly.