Chapter 49: Change the Rules

Kevin, phone in hand, stiffly turned to Damon. "What did you just say? You put who and who on the same team?"

"Alana and Joan," Damon said sheepishly, scratching his head. "That'll boost the show's popularity, won't it?"

Kevin nearly fell out of his chair. His brain felt like it was exploding. Popularity? "First, we have to figure out how to survive Sean's wrath! Who told you to do that? You could get fired!" Kevin's hair stood on end. "Tell the director we're changing the rules immediately."

Abigail learned of the rule change. The investor would be a judge and participate in the competition. Rooms would be reassigned.

"We were supposed to share a room," Luna said. "Now that we have to work in separate rooms, it complicates things for us." She realized this was trouble. Working separately would expose their designs easily.

"What's Kevin doing? We signed the contract, and now he's making up new rules!" Abigail frowned. "Let's see what the production team comes up with. We can prepare several designs if the rules are unfavorable. I'll get them to you beforehand, so you can use them on the show."

Luna sighed. "Guess that's our best bet."

The rooms were reassigned before nightfall. The L-shaped corridor placed Abigail's room next to Luna's. Abigail checked the time. "Nothing to worry about. It's time for the drawing. Let's go."

They ran into Joan leaving the room next to Abigail's. Joan quickly moved closer to Luna. "What a coincidence, Luna! This is your room? We'll be seeing a lot of each other, then."

A camera followed Joan. Abigail remained silent, subtly urging Luna to stay calm. Luna smiled at the camera, remaining silent.

Everyone gathered in the hall. The host, facing the camera, had the teams draw lots separately to ensure fairness. Each designer would have a celebrity and an assistant, forming a three-person team.

Luna clasped her hands. "Please don't put Joan on my team."

Abigail smiled, amused by her friend's fervent prayer.

It was Luna's turn. She took a deep breath, pausing before drawing. The staff member announced, "Congratulations. Miss Joan Palmer, you're on a team with Luna."

Luna almost cursed but managed a formal smile for the camera. "I'll be in your care, Miss Palmer."

Before the host could speak, Joan put a hand to her chest. "Alana's been my idol for a long time. It's an honor to be on her team." She looked at Luna.

Luna played along, nodding before leaving the stage.

Abigail and Luna, sitting together amidst the chatter and laughter, felt a growing unease. How did Joan end up on their team? Remembering Joan's overly friendly behavior, they realized: this team was rigged.