The boardroom erupted into a chorus of sycophantic applause.
"Absolutely brilliant, Miss Pierce," the Chief Operating Officer gushed, pushing his glasses up his nose as he stared at the screen. "The symmetry, the elegance—this piece will undoubtedly secure the gold medal at the Geneva Exhibition."
"It's a masterpiece," another board member agreed. "The way the sapphires cascade around the central diamond... it's breathtaking."
Blair placed a hand over her heart, feigning humility while practically radiating arrogance. "Thank you. Truly. I spent the entire weekend locked in my home studio, slaving over this concept. I wanted to create something that represented the new era of Aurora Designs."
"And what was your inspiration for this piece?" the COO asked, taking notes.
Blair smiled, a p
