Chapter 98

Sonia frowned. “What’s SC?” She wasn’t familiar with fashion industry insiders, but her stylist was a walking encyclopedia of designer jewelry.

The stylist explained excitedly. “SC – Sylvie Corvalle, one of the world’s top jewelry designers. Her work is famous for its unique style and incredible craftsmanship. Celebrities and royalty fight over her pieces. She’s semi-retired now, supposedly has two protégés who learned her techniques, but they’re very mysterious.”

“You’re sure this is SC’s work?” Sonia asked urgently.

Her stylist nodded, pointing to specific details. “Look at this mounting technique, these signature patterns – they’re SC’s trademark elements. I saw her work at a Paris exhibition. I’d recognize it anywhere.”

Anastasia was startled that someone had noticed those subtle details. Sonia’s heart raced. If this was really SC’s work, how could Anastasia possibly have access to it? Did she have some connection to Sylvie Corvalle?

Impossible! SC is internationally renowned – how could a nobody like Anastasia know her? Unless… Anastasia plagiarized SC’s designs?

Sonia was convinced the portfolio wasn’t Anastasia’s original work. The audacity! Copying a master’s work so blatantly. This was her chance to expose Anastasia’s true nature and show Cassian what kind of woman he’d married.

Sonia’s eyes sharpened as she fixed Anastasia with an accusatory stare. “Ms. Kingsley, did you really design this? Or did you ‘borrow’ inspiration from somewhere else?”

“If you can’t handle my commission, just say so. Professional work should be done by professionals. There’s no need to plagiarize – it just makes you look even more pathetic.”

Sonia felt triumphant, finally having something to attack Anastasia with. Anastasia, however, was more amused than angry at being accused without any investigation.

She maintained her calm smile, her voice clear and confident. “Miss Vinci, I haven’t plagiarized anything. This design is entirely my own work. If you have concerns, I can explain every detail – the inspiration, the techniques, everything.”

Sonia still looked skeptical. She couldn’t believe an unknown designer could create something so remarkable, especially something so similar to SC’s style.

“Ms. Kingsley, I should warn you – plagiarism is career suicide in this industry. If you did copy SC’s work, you should admit it now before things get worse.”

“I’m telling you again – this portfolio is my original design. Just tell me whether you’re satisfied with it. If not, feel free to find someone else,” Anastasia replied evenly.

“I’m not satisfied. I won’t accept plagiarized work. Wearing copied jewelry would be humiliating,” Sonia declared righteously.

Anastasia’s expression grew serious. “Miss Vinci, you can dislike my work, but don’t insult my integrity. I did not plagiarize.” She pulled a folder from her bag and slid it across. “These are my sketches and inspiration notes for this piece. You can review them. And if you’re still not convinced, I can contact SC’s studio for verification.”

“Are you seriously claiming to know SC personally?” Sonia scoffed.