“If you hadn’t tampered with the results, how could I possibly be in third place?”
6
Zora finally voiced her dissatisfaction. Caitlin gave her a faint smile and responded, “Do you think every judge scores like you do–based on favoritism? Today’s judging was purely about the design. The audience isn’t blind, and neither are the judges.”
Her words weren’t polite, and the implication was clear: just because Zora had manipulated the scores at the piano competition didn’t mean everyone else did too.
‘Oh, right. You say it was about design. But what about that second–place designer? In what world does his work deserve to outrank mine? My designs are clearly superior in every aspect. Unless you bribed the judges, how else would you and that guy land first and second?”
Zora wasn’t giving up.
Onstage, to the audience, the two looked like old friends chatting casually. No one could hear the sharp tension in their
voices.
Before Caitlin could respond, Sebastian and the others came up on stage with flowers.
He handed Caitlin a huge bouquet and pulled her into a hug, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “Caitlin, I’m so proud of you.”
Justin’s girlfriend also ran up with flowers, hugging him tightly.
Zora watched as the top two winners received affection and praise. The public display of Sebastian’s support for Caitlin made her feel sick. He was doing it on purpose–just to humiliate her.
Just then, Ximena came onstage as well, presenting her daughter with a bouquet and pulling her into a hug. “Zora, you were amazing. I’m so proud of you.”
Zora’s expression softened slightly. At least she didn’t feel quite so humiliated anymore.
Once everyone had left the stage, Caitlin finally answered Zora’s earlier accusation. “You asked why Justin and I placed. The truth is, it wasn’t up to me. Why don’t we hear what the judges have to say?”
Caitlin turned toward the judges‘ panel. It was time for the official feedback.
Each of the three judges began offering comments on the winning designs.
Alessandro, the eccentric Italian master designer, spoke about Caitlin’s work with dramatic flair.
“I absolutely adore VERA’s designs. They always bring something fresh to the eye. There’s so much to learn from her. Today’s presentation left me speechless. I honestly don’t have the words. Incredible. Flawless.”
The other judges nodded in agreement. Caitlin took the mic and thanked them warmly.
Next up was Étienne, the French design icon, who reviewed Justin’s collection.
“The ‘Seasons of Time‘ concept was delightful. It was bold, creative, and innovative. I saw courage in the vision, and the execution matched it. A very clever theme.”
“Thank you, sir,” Justin said with a bow.
Finally, Tobias, the acclaimed German designer, gave his thoughts on Zora’s work.
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“What struck me most was the level of craftsmanship. The detail was rich, and the effort clearly immense. When I first saw the designs, I felt like I had stepped into a museum. It was unique and culturally intriguing.
“That said, the tailoring and choice of materials could use refinement. I understand the desire to showcase deep cultural elements, but too many overlapping motifs made the visual presentation feel heavy. A bit of simplification might help.”
Tobias gave honest, constructive feedback, pointing out where improvements could be made.
But Zora wasn’t having it. She took his remarks as a personal attack.
“Mr. Tobias, I disagree. My designs integrate these cultural elements intentionally, and they are perfectly balanced. You’re just looking for excuses to dismiss me! I studied under the renowned designer Mr. Siegburg–my work deserved to be the highlight and the winner today!”
She raised the mic and challenged him head–on.
The audience was stunned. Zora had just called out a judge in front of everyone?
Not only was the competition over and the results finalized–now she was openly questioning their legitimacy?
Murmurs spread throughout the crowd. Cameras clicked rapidly as reporters caught every word.
Ximena, watching helplessly, was mortified. She shouted from the side of the stage, “Zora! That’s enough! Don’t do this!”
Zora ignored her.
Tobias looked taken aback but remained composed. He stood and addressed the crowd.
“I’m Tobias. First, thank you to the US organizers for inviting us to serve as judges. I want to clarify that the three of us arrived yesterday and had no contact with any of the designers before today. Our scoring was based solely on professional design standards.
“We selected the top three based on merit. I assure everyone here that our decision was fair and impartial. As for Miss Harris‘ objections, if my comments offended you, I’m willing to withdraw them.”
He set down the mic, his expression visibly cold.
The atmosphere turned tense.
The host came out to try and defuse the situation, but Zora wasn’t finished.
Caitlin, watching Zora spiral, realized that she was simply terrified of losing to her. Calmly, she proposed, “Miss Harris, if you doubt the judges‘ fairness, I have an idea. Why don’t we do a live audience vote? Let the people decide whose work they preferred. Whoever gets more votes wins. Sound fair?”
A fair, open solution. But Zora rejected it immediately.
“Don’t give me that fake democracy crap! Look at this crowd–half of them are your friends! You’ve packed the place with your fan club. What’s the point of voting?”
Caitlin had offered her an easy way out, but Zora refused to take it. At this point, it was clear she couldn’t be reasoned with.
“If that won’t satisfy you either,” Caitlin said coldly, “then what exactly do you want?”
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