Chapter 187

David’s eyes, however, softened. He leaned slightly forward in his chair, watching her carefully. There was a subtle nostalgia in his gaze, almost imperceptible, but the corner of his lips curved into a small, private smile. He wasn’t just seeing a design, he was seeing her. Back on stage, Lily’s hands shook slightly as she made the final adjustments to the necklace, but she straightened, taking a step back. Her gaze swept the audience, and finally, she looked at David again. Their eyes met across the room, and she froze for a heartbeat. A rush of emotions coursed through her, anger, frustration, fear, and something she refused to name. But she couldn’t let it break her now. Not here. Not in front of everyone. She took a deep breath, raised her chin, and smiled faintly. “I hope you can feel the story behind this piece,” she said, her voice steady despite the tremor in her hands. Then she stepped back, letting the judges examine the piece in silence. A hush fell over the room. The other