Chapter 47: Ocean's Heart

"What's with all the rules? My butt's getting sore," Luna muttered, unable to sit still any longer. If there was anything she hated, it was lectures and classes.

The host's announcement captured Luna's attention, just as she was about to take a restroom break. "And now, the answer to your burning question: the prize for the winner"

"The winner will gain a spot on Parovine Fashion Week's top designer team, with all travel expenses sponsored by East Joy Talent and its partner, Graham International."

The host paused for a dramatic moment, fueling the anticipation in the room. The prospect of attending Parovine Fashion Week as a member of the top design team was a huge boost for any aspiring designer.

Just when everyone thought that was all, the host raised her microphone again. "And, in addition, the winner will also receive Ocean's Heart." She unveiled a lacquered tray holding a heart-shaped diamond the size of a pigeon egg. Under the stage lights, the magnificent diamond glimmered, radiating light.

For a moment, it was more than just a precious stone; it seemed filled with spirit and radiance. The crowd erupted.

Luna's eyes widened. She stared in disbelief, clutching Abigail's arm. "I—I'm not dreaming, am I? Is that really Ocean's Heart?"

"Oww, too tight!" Abigail winced, gently freeing herself. "Yes," she confirmed. Even from a distance, the diamond's shimmering light indicated its immense value.

The diamond's origin story was tied to the castle. Legend claimed it had belonged to the castle's first master, passed down as a family heirloom for generations. However, due to the family's bankruptcy, the diamond was eventually auctioned off. It now served as the prize for this competition.

Abigail had initially entered the competition to boost L. Moon's fame, but now she and Luna had a new goal.

"Do your best to get that diamond, Abigail," Luna said, her disbelief giving way to encouragement. "You could buy a whole villa with that, let alone a regular house!"

Abigail's lips tightened; her fighting spirit ignited. The diamond might be a mere collectible to the wealthy, but it held the potential to change her life. Securing it would provide the funds for her grandmother's treatment abroad. She’d learned from her grandmother's doctor that Johnson Hospital had treated similar cases, but the treatment alone cost fifteen million. Though mentioned as a reference, Abigail hadn't forgotten. She'd do anything to ensure her grandmother's healing, even if it meant leaving everything behind for a simpler life with her.

The diamond remained on display for only a few minutes before the guards returned it to the safe. Tension filled the air; the friendly competition evaporated, replaced by focused ambition.

After fully explaining the rules, the host dismissed everyone for a break, instructing them to reconvene in another hall.

Abigail took a deep breath. "This isn't just a show anymore; it's a battlefield."

Changes Made:

• Improved sentence structure and flow.
• Corrected grammatical errors (e.g., verb tense, subject-verb agreement).
• Replaced informal language with more appropriate wording.
• Added punctuation for clarity and readability.
• Removed unnecessary repetition.
• Removed the asterisks, as the censored words were unclear and unnecessary. The context makes their meaning obvious.
• Improved paragraphing for better organization.

The cleaned-up version is significantly improved in terms of clarity, grammar, and overall readability.