Chapter 1000: Facing Satire
Phantom stood before Besse, their gazes meeting. Phantom had never met Besse in person, only seeing her in news reports and on television. Yet, this woman was even more beautiful than her televised image. The designer's striking appearance was almost enviable.
"Are you Besse?" Phantom asked directly.
Besse showed no shame. Before this meeting, she felt guilty about the plagiarism accusations, acknowledging her use of another's original work. The "Angel" series's immense success only heightened her sense of obligation.
However, something in Phantom's demeanor, or perhaps a newfound confidence, shifted her perspective. The plagiarism incident no longer seemed so straightforward. A sense of righteousness settled over her.
"Yes," she replied confidently.
"What are you doing here?" Phantom asked incredulously. She hadn't anticipated such audacity, nor had the journalists. Did Besse believe her international renown would intimidate everyone?
Phantom herself had initially felt intimidated. Discovering the striking resemblance between Besse's "Angel" series and her own earlier work, she'd hesitated to speak out, fearing repercussions. But, to capitalize on the situation, she’d posted on Twitter, sparking a viral outcry that drew journalists to her door. She was unprepared for the intense media scrutiny.
Then, a powerful individual offered assistance, promising fame and a substantial sum if she accused Besse. Haunted by years of being bullied in the design world, she accepted.
"I came here to talk," Besse stated frankly.
"To talk, or because my press conference left you no choice?" Phantom sneered. "Otherwise, a 'small' designer like me would be invisible to you."
"If I hadn't noticed you, I wouldn't be in Northfield," Besse retorted.
"Then why the delay? Why did it take a press conference?" Phantom's sarcasm was evident.
Besse met her gaze fearlessly. "It's been only two days since the incident. Do you expect instant resolution? Your eagerness suggests you're using my reputation to promote yourself."
"Nonsense!" Phantom's anger and embarrassment were palpable. "I don't need your help!"
"Then why not contact me first? As an outsider, adapting to Northfield takes time. Instead of a private resolution, you chose this extreme approach?"
"I'm fighting for my rights!" Phantom emphasized.
"So a private resolution never crossed your mind?" Besse summarized.
Phantom was speechless.
"If private resolution wasn't your intention, what's the point? We're at an impasse," Besse added drily.
Phantom remained silent, her words suddenly seeming hollow.
"This plagiarism is your fault! You copied my work! Just because you're internationally renowned and I'm not, that justifies everything? Right and wrong should matter, shouldn't it?" Phantom retreated into her victim role.
"So this is about avoiding the 'small-time' label?" Besse stated coldly.
Phantom's face flushed. "Is this how we resolve things? You plagiarized my work and now you ridicule me? Don't you find that disgusting?"
"My attitude stems from yours. Since you rejected private resolution and insisted on legal action, I respect your decision. See you in court," Besse stated clearly, unafraid.
There was nothing left to say. Private resolution had never been Phantom's intention. Besse turned to leave.
"Stop!" Phantom called.
Besse paused.
"Even with legal action, shouldn't you apologize first?" Phantom demanded.
Besse smiled. "Let's wait for the court's verdict."
"Besse!" Phantom's gaze was fierce. "I didn't intend for this to be so extreme. We're both designers; I understand the consequences of damaging behavior. You forced my hand."
"You dare use that term?" Besse countered. "That's your way of justifying hypocrisy."
Completely provoked, Phantom lunged forward, raising her hand to strike Besse. But a strong hand seized her wrist.
Oscar's bodyguard intervened, shielding Besse. Besse was surprised; she hadn't noticed anyone following her. She recognized the bodyguard.
The irony wasn't lost on her; she'd just argued with Oscar.