Philips quickly handed over his tablet, showing the morning’s viral images–Cassian and Sonia standing together at her doorway, particularly damning
with Sonia in her robe,
Cassian glanced at them, his expression darkening immediately. “These vultures really have no boundaries.”
His voice turned sharp. “Contact PR immediately. I want this handled, and I don’t want these false stories spreading any further.”
Damn it. Which media outlet had the balls to pull this?
Philips nodded but hesitated. “Sir, should we issue a statement? This is affecting the company’s image, and… Mrs. Rhodes might see it.”
At the mention of Anastasia, Cassian’s expression softened sligh relationship. As for my wife…” He paused, his voice lowering. “I‘
“Handle the statement–emphasize that Miss Vinci and I have a strictly professional explain everything to her personally.”
His expression grew thoughtful. How would Anastasia react to seeing this? Would she be jealous?
Anastasia hadn’t given it much thought–she was too swamped with work to dwell on gossip.
Around 3 PM, Sonia arrived at the office. Anastasia could have just emailed the designs for approval, but Sonia had insisted on reviewing them in
person.
So Anastasia waited in the conference room.
Sonia showed up around 3:30, fashionably late without any hint of embarrassment.
When she entered, Anastasia stood professionally. “Miss Vinci, please have a seat.”
Sonia glanced around coolly. “Ms. Kingsley, you certainly work fast. Already finished the designs–impressive for a department head.”
Anastasia caught the sarcasm but remained composed. “Just doing my job, Miss Vinci.” She slid the design portfolio across the table. “Please take a look and let me know your thoughts.”
Sonia accepted the portfolio with feigned disinterest. Honestly, she had zero confidence in Anastasia’s abilities. In her mind, Anastasia was just some mediocre designer who had no business working on her pieces.
She’d only commissioned Anastasia to humiliate her anyway.
The thought alone gave Sonia a thrill.
But when Sonia opened the portfolio, her eyes widened with surprise.
Was this really Anastasia’s work?
The jewelry designs were stunning–flowing lines, intricate details, classic elegance with modern sophistication. Every element was perfectly balanced, far exceeding Sonia’s expectations.
She’d expected something bland and uninspired, maybe even planned to tear it apart. Instead, she found herself momentarily speechless.
Sonia was genuinely shocked, though she quickly composed herself.
“Did you… actually design this yourself?” Sonia asked, suspicion creeping into her voice
Anastasia smiled calmly. “Yes, Miss Vinci. I designed these based on your personal style and specifications. If anything doesn’t meet your expectations, I’m happy to make adjustments.”
Sonia pressed her lips together, reluctantly acknowledging that the designs were indeed flawless. They were minimalist yet complex, unique and innovative. She’d loved them at first sight.
Chapter 97
But admitting Anastasia’s talent felt like swallowing poison.
Suddenly, Sonia’s stylist gasped. “This… this looks like SC’s work!”
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