Chapter 986: Exposing Plagiarism

Doyle felt Besse's gaze and asked, "What's up?"

Besse's eyes flickered.

"Another burst of inspiration?" Doyle joked. Despite his occasional temper, his sincerity and boyish charm convinced her he wasn't lying.

"No," she said, "I just wanted to know how long until boarding."

Doyle checked his watch. "About ten minutes. Bored? Want me to sing you a song?"

Besse smiled faintly. She knew his kindness was genuine and shouldn't let others sway her doubts. Besides, she didn't truly want the "truth."

"I'm tone-deaf, so spare my ears," Besse replied.

"You hate my singing? When I get back to Keelung, I'll learn to sing on pitch," Doyle said, a touch angrily.

Besse believed he could, if he wanted.

"I don't hate it! It's just too quiet, and I don't want to disturb others," Besse conceded.

Doyle smiled brightly. "That makes sense."

How could such a straightforward man deceive her? Was she overthinking again?

Her phone rang. It was Lu Se, their assistant, with bad news: Their "Angel" collection haute couture show in Karami had been accused of plagiarism.

Besse's face visibly paled.

"What happened?" Doyle asked anxiously.

Before Besse could answer, Doyle snatched the phone, demanding details. He inherently believed in Besse's design talent; her post-accident creativity amazed and terrified him simultaneously.

He hung up, furious, and checked the news. The headline screamed, "Designer Besse's 'Angel' Collection Steals the Show, Suspected of Plagiarism." Comparison photos showed similarities between Besse's work and that of a designer named "Phantom," whose eight-year-old designs, previously unnoticed, were now causing an uproar. The Northfield media's aggressive coverage was understandable, given Besse's Northfield launch and the accusation of copying a local designer.

Besse's phone rang again. "Luther," she said, recognizing the caller ID before answering.

"Miss Besse, global media are calling about the plagiarism. I've deflected them, but another hotline call... What should we do?"

"Shut down your phone."

"Yes," Luther replied, hanging up.

Another call followed. "Hello?"

"Besse, your work resembles a Northfield designer's. Pre-ordered 'Angel' clients demand explanations or legal action." It was the director of operations.

"I don't know what's going on. I just received notice."

"Solve this! Not just 'Angel,' but all your designs are affected! We've already cancelled fifty orders!"

"Okay," Besse agreed.

She hung up and looked at Doyle, who had also fielded countless calls. This next one, however, made him stand and walk away. It was Doyle's mother, Queen Carol.

He listened, though they seemed to be arguing. He was explaining, but their differing opinions led to a lengthy dispute. Finally, he hung up, foot stomping angrily.

"What's wrong?" Besse asked soothingly.

"I'm so angry," Doyle replied, frustrated.

"Who angered you?" Besse asked, attempting to calm him.

"You can still laugh? Everyone's talking about you!"

"But you believe me," Besse said confidently.

Doyle looked into her eyes. "I believe in you."

"That's enough," Besse nodded.

"My mother doesn't believe you!" Doyle exclaimed. "After all these years!"

Besse felt emotional turmoil. She felt both Doyle and Queen Carol should have faith in her.

"How did the Queen react?" Besse asked.

"She said that while design similarities can occur through coincidence or inspiration, yours and 'Phantom's' are almost impossible unless it's plagiarism."

Besse pursed her lips. She knew Queen Carol wasn't entirely wrong; such coincidences were rare.

But she hadn't plagiarized! It would be foolish, especially for someone with her reputation.

"She didn't outright accuse you," Doyle added, noticing her distress. "She suggested 'Phantom' might have subconsciously influenced you."