THREAD OF FATE

Chapter 26

THREAD OF FATE

CHAPTER 26

The fashion show had come to a close, and Williams Fashion Home was reaping the rewards of its success. The new designs presented by both Sonia and Liza had garnered an overwhelming response, with Liza's designs receiving the largest sales. As the dust settled, everyone returned to their normal routine, eager to capitalize on the momentum generated by the show.

However, amidst the celebration, a pressing issue still lingered. Liza and Sonia were summoned by the chairman to address the lingering question of design ownership. The chairman, CEO, Mrs. Williams, and Tylor convened in a meeting room, their faces stern and resolute.

The chairman began, "I want to commend you both on a job well done. Your designs were exceptional, and we're experiencing an unprecedented surge in sales. Miss Liza, I must extend special praise to you. Your work is truly remarkable." Liza beamed with pride, her smile radiant.

Sonia, on the other hand, seethed with resentment. She detested the fact that Liza was receiving accolades from the Williams family. Concealing her true feelings, Sonia forced a smile, attempting to appear gracious.

The chairman continued, "Now, let's address the issue at hand. Since both of you claim ownership of the design, and one of you must have stolen the other's work, we need to take a decisive step. I want you both to submit your sketchbooks to me. Then, I want you to create the same design you both claim as your own in a new sketchbook. You have three days to complete this task."

Liza nodded, her expression confident. "No problem, sir." Sonia, however, seemed lost in thought, her mind racing with the implications of the chairman's directive.

The chairman's voice snapped Sonia back to reality. "Miss Sonia, do you understand the instructions?" Sonia hesitated, collecting her thoughts before responding, "Yes, sir."

The meeting concluded, and the chairman's secretary followed Sonia and Liza to collect their sketchbooks. As Sonia departed the office, her eyes seemed troubled, her brow furrowed in concern. The others watched her leave, sensing that something was amiss.

In a hushed conversation, the CEO and her secretary discussed Sonia's behavior. "Don't you think Sonia is acting strangely?" Mrs. Williams asked. "I've always had my doubts about her. There's something about her that doesn't add up."

The secretary nodded in agreement. "I've had similar reservations. She seems manipulative," Mrs. Williams' expression turned resolute. "I'll be keeping a close eye on her."

As the workday drew to a close, everyone began to head home. Tylor sought out Liza, finding her preparing to leave. "Liza, are you ready to head home?" he asked. Liza nodded, and Tylor offered to drop her off. During the drive, Tylor asked Liza if she'd like to join him for dinner. Liza initially declined, but Tylor insisted, saying it was his way of showing appreciation for her outstanding work.

They arrived at a quaint restaurant, where they enjoyed a delightful dinner. As the evening drew to a close, Tylor dropped Liza off at her home. Her father, Mr. Smith, observed the exchange from a distance, watching as Tylor bid Liza farewell.

As Liza entered her home, her father greeted her warmly. "Who was the young man who dropped you off?" he asked. Liza explained that Tylor was her director at work and that they had gone out for dinner to discuss work-related matters.

Her father nodded, seeming to accept the explanation. "How was your day at work?" he asked. Liza recounted the events of the day, including the meeting with the chairman and the task of recreating the design.

Mr. Smith listened attentively, his expression proud. "You've always been talented, Liza. Just remember to stay focused and do your best." Liza smiled, feeling grateful for her father's unwavering support.

Meanwhile, Sonia was at home, her emotions in turmoil. She had been attempting to recreate the design, but her efforts were in vain. Her anger and frustration boiled over, causing her to lash out at her surroundings. Her mother tried to intervene, but Sonia rebuffed her, demanding to be left alone.

As the night wore on, Sonia's anger slowly gave way to despair. She realized that she was trapped, with no clear escape from the predicament she had created. She knew she had to come up with a plan to salvage her situation. Her eyes drooped, and she drifted off into a restless sleep.