I Once Married You (Harper and Benjamin)

Chapter 365 Selected

Benjamin subconsciously glanced at Dorcas, a slight furrow between his brows indicating his displeasure.

Dorcas immediately interjected, "Benjamin, don't look at me like that. I'm just worried about putting you in a tough spot and concerned about potential discontent among other designers. It might not be beneficial for Harper either. What do you think?"

His voice was deep, tinged with a hint of annoyance. "The results aren't out yet, are they? Aren't you overthinking this a bit? Even if she doesn't make it through, as long as she wants to continue, I have ways."

His intentions couldn't be clearer.

This was blatant favoritism towards Harper.

Dorcas found it incredibly perplexing.

Throughout his tenure leading the Martin Group, Benjamin had always maintained a clear boundary between personal and professional matters, showing no favoritism. Even during his university days, he was the same, strictly impartial when it came to work-related affairs. But now, he was making an exception for Harper.

Dorcas couldn't quite put her finger on her feelings. She believed that Benjamin shouldn't compromise his principles and boundaries for anyone.

However, sensing Benjamin's displeasure, she chose not to push further and simply gave a faint smile.

Soon enough, Curtis clarified the situation and relayed it to Benjamin truthfully.

"Mr. Martin, should we conduct a direct public investigation on this matter?"

Benjamin shook his head, saying calmly, "Find out who this Louisa really is. This investigation must be conducted discreetly, without letting Harper become the focus."

The relationship with Harper had already placed pressure on her. If she advanced successfully, other designers and the public might view it as favoritism. Therefore, Benjamin needed to maintain a clean distance to avoid any accusations of favoritism. Benjamin further instructed that anyone aware of the situation should keep quiet. Should word get out, he wouldn't spare the person.

Dorcas heard Benjamin's words loud

and clear, but she felt that Benjamin might have said it intentionally for her benefit. Her face immediately stiffened, turning pale.

Dorcas wanted to tell Benjamin directly that she wasn't that kind of person and would act directly if needed without playing two-faced games.

Yet, to prevent any conflict or disagreement with Benjamin, she held back from speaking her mind.

The two of them didn't interact for the rest of the competition.

An hour later, all designers completed their sketch presentations, leading to a half-hour intermission for the judges to select the top twenty designers. During this break, Harper and her team sat in the lounge chatting.

Sophia and the other two clapped enthusiastically and gave Harper a thumbs-up. "Ms. Mitchell, you were amazing just now. I declare you my idol!"

"Will you switch to a new idol in the next second?"

Sophia chuckled in embarrassment, "I mean it, your improvisation was truly surprising."

Annie chimed in. "Harper have even greater potential. If you three sincerely follow her, you will surely carve out your own path in the future." "Alright, don't paint a rosy picture for my people," Harper interrupted. Then she checked the time.

With the results announcement still

a few minutes away, she decided to prepare everyone. "Although we

were satisfied with the in

performance this time, it doesn't guarantee satisfaction from

public and judges. After all,

competitions have their rules. So, let's be mentally prepared. If we don't pass smoothly, let's not harbor any grievances or burdens. We've already given our best."

Sophia and the other two exchanged

ėt

glances. Liam spoke up. "Ms. Mitchell, we're all with you on this. The biggest pressure falls on you this time. It's unfair that you've worked so hard only to have

Someone else take credit for it.

Honestly, it's infuriating."

"Yeah, it doesn't really matter to us. The most important thing is you. Whatever you decide, we'll support you." Max chimed in.Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.