“Since Grape is here, thank you for taking care of her.”
“Mr. Russell, you’re too kind. This is simply part of our duties.”
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Dexter then approached Grape.
A tall figure stood before her, but Grape was completely unaware. In that moment, she was deep in thought, holding a Lego piece. Dexter extended his hand, pointing to a specific location. “Try placing it here…”
When Josie returned to the scene at the Golden Key Awards, she was met with a sarcastic remark. “Some people these days are becoming more and more arrogant, with no sense of time at all.”
It was Lily.
She looked at Josie with a face full of disdain, as if a surge of anger welled up from the depths of her eyes, yearning to consume Josie.
Josie didn’t pay her any mind. She simply offered a polite “I’m sorry” to everyone. Following that, she promptly immersed herself in her work.
When Lily saw that her remark was ignored without causing any reaction, the imbalance in her heart surged once again.
If it hadn’t been for her discovery by Larry that day, she would have already obtained the evidence to ruin Josie. At this very moment, Josie wouldn’t be standing here unharmed. But now, she no longer had any evidence.
As Lily let out a cold huff, a calculating glint flashed across her gloomy face. Regardless, she was determined to drive Josie out of the panel of judges.
There were numerous entries in the second round of the excellence competition. Under the unanimous decision of the panel of judges, the finalists who would proceed to the finals were selected.
After finishing her work, Josie was preparing to go home. As soon as she reached the underground parking lot, a figure darted out, blocking her path. “Ms. Alice, could you please wait a moment?”
Josie raised an eyebrow.
She didn’t recognize the man before her. “May I ask who you are?”
The man revealed a hint of a smile, his gaze radiating friendliness. “Ms. Alice,” he began, “I am a fan of yours. I have seen almost all of your designs. Whether it’s the design concept or the design pattern, they are all top-notch. You have always been the role model I look to…” up
In response to the man’s praise, Josie politely replied, “Thank you.”
“Ms. Alice, I also registered for the Golden Key Awards. The Saint Dezburg Bridge was my design…”
Upon hearing that, Josie had some recollection. The design of this artwork was grand and majestic, and it had already been shortlisted for the finals.
“Your design is quite innovative, a rare gem among numerous works. If you give it your all in the final round, you’re certain to achieve great results.”
The man chuckled, lifting his head to survey his surroundings. Finally, he pulled out a thick envelope from his pocket. “Ms. Alice, I hope you can vote for me during the final round…””
Unspoken rules?
There was no need for guessing. Josie already knew what was inside the envelope.
The expression on her face instantly became composed, turning incredibly serious.
“Fair competition is the greatest respect for this contest, and sincerity in one’s work is best reflected by a clear mind. If one’s focus is diverted to devious tactics, it’s impossible to create a good piece of work.”
With that, Josie turned around and left.
The man, however, pursued her, stopping her without any explanation. Regardless of whether Josie would refuse, he directly stuffed the envelope into Josie’s hands.
It was a hefty stack, carrying some weight.
Josie’s complexion had completely changed.
Without any hesitation, she returned the item to him and sternly said, “Bribing the judges can lead to disqualification. If you don’t take it back, I’ll have no choice but to report you to the committee.”
“Don’t-”
Upon hearing her speak in such a manner, the man couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt.
“Please accept my sincere apologies, Ms. Alice.”
