Chapter 195

Even David who had promised himself he wouldn’t let his emotions show couldn’t look away. As she placed the ring under the light, the blue gem caught the reflection and scattered it into tiny fragments of silver-blue, like frozen tears shimmering midair. For a moment, the hall was utterly still. Then came a slow clap one, then another, until the entire room erupted in applause. The judges exchanged quiet nods, their faces impressed. When the results were announced, the room burst with cheers. “The winner of this year’s International Jewelry Design Competition is : Aurora!” Lily froze, unable to move for a second. She blinked, as if trying to be sure she had heard correctly. Linda screamed from the side and ran to hug her tightly. “You did it! Lily, you did it!” Lily’s eyes filled with tears. All those sleepless nights, the struggles, the doubt, it all led to this moment. She turned toward the judges’ table instinctively, and her gaze met David’s. He wasn’t smiling broadly like the othe