The Billionaire's Forbidden Longing

Alexander squinted and asked, "Ten years ago? How old were you when you drew these designs?"

"My grandma taught me to draw when I was five. She gave me a bunch of figure sketches to copy, and I noticed the clothes on those figures were stunning. So, I started sketching them in a notebook. These designs were done when I was eight. After she passed away, I never touched them again," Allison explained.

"Eight?" Alexander and Ramon were both floored.

Ramon, still in disbelief, examined the designs closely but couldn't wrap his head around it. "I don't buy it. Draw something right now!"

Allison nodded and agreed. She grabbed a piece of paper from the drawing table and quickly started sketching. Her hand moved confidently, the lines flowing effortlessly onto the paper. She then began coloring, her speed and precision making it clear that these designs were second nature to her.

Ramon was ecstatic, shaking Allison's shoulders with excitement. "Genius! You're a genius! Alexander, give Allison to me. From now on, she's mine!"

Alexander quickly intervened, pulling Ramon away. "Allison is mine. Back off!"

He wrapped his arms tightly around Allison, causing Ramon to scoff at Alexander's possessiveness. "Relax, it's not like she's a trophy!"

Just as Alexander was about to retaliate, the sound of high heels echoed through the

room.

A voice rang out, "If you have a problem with Alexander, you have a problem with me." Liliana's voice made Allison's face light up. "Liliana, you're here!"

Not only Liliana but also Mia had arrived.

Mia immediately enveloped Allison in a hug. "Allison, I missed you so much!"

Alexander stood with a hand in his pocket, a smile playing on his lips as he watched the scene.

Liliana touched Allison's face affectionately, but when she looked at Ramon, her expression turned icy. "Ramon, you better think twice; Allison's with Alexander, and that's not changing."

In Liliana's presence, Ramon became silent, his usual bravado gone.

Allison noticed Ramon's eyes were fixed on Liliana, who had seen the designs and was full of praise. Ramon stood beside her, explaining the details with utmost respect.

"I'm just appreciating talent, nothing more. Allison's skills surpass mine. I'm trying to recruit her," Ramon defended himself.

Liliana snorted. "You don't need to do that. She's my sister-in-law, so keep your distance! Also, pay her for these designs. Don't think you can use them for free; we're not short on money."

Ramon scratched his head, unable to argue back, making Allison chuckle. She turned to Mia. "Mia, is Mr. Smith close to your mom?"

Mia nodded. "Yeah, he and my mom went to the same school. Dad said he liked her and pursued her for years, but my mom belongs to my dad."

'So that's the story,' Allison thought. 'Seems like old feelings still linger.'

Liliana and Mia had come to choose dresses too. Hearing that Alexander and Allison were there, they decided to join the fun.noveldrama

Mia dragged Allison over to help her pick out a dress. Allison picked out a sleeveless pink gown that matched Mia's classy vibe.

"Allison, this dress is perfect with the jewelry you gave me. I'm totally wearing them together!" Mia said.

Allison nodded, appreciating Mia's good taste.

Then, Liliana pulled Allison aside. "Allison, with your talent, why aren't you a designer?"

Allison hesitated before replying, "I've always seen drawing as a hobby, something to pass the time. Liliana, I'm good at it, but I lack the imagination of a true artist. I just find ancient clothing beautiful and sketch them, but I've never studied it deeply." "What about jewelry? Have you studied or designed ancient jewelry?" Liliana asked. This question was even harder for Allison to answer.

Sensing her discomfort, Liliana didn't press further and offered to buy the designs.

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"These were drawn when I was ten. If you want to use them, I can give you a license, but there's no need for money," Allison said, feeling it was absurd to sell designs she'd made as a kid.

However, Liliana insisted, offering a staggering $20 million.

Allison was stunned. "Liliana, that's way too much!"

Liliana smiled, squeezing Allison's hand. "Allison, this is a recognition of your talent. Since Alexander gave you a jewelry store, why not take on some design work part- time? It would improve the store's product quality and boost business. The profits would be yours. What do you think?"

It wasn't a bad idea, but Allison still felt unsure. "Liliana, the store is your business. It doesn't feel right for me to take the profits. Plus, I can't focus on it all the time. My designs come from inspiration; I can't be as prolific as other designers."

"No problem. As long as you're willing to design, I'll support you. I believe your creations will be hits. It's settled then!" Liliana said firmly, turning to Ramon. "Ramon, transfer the money to Allison and give her access. From now on, in the studio, her word is as good as mine. Anyone who disrespects Allison will be kicked out of Skycrest!"

Ramon nodded, giving Allison a deep look before instructing the finance department to handle it. He also announced that Allison was now a designer at the studio, and that everyone should treat her with respect.

"Allison is under Liliana's protection. I know some of you like to flatter and belittle others. Let me be clear: if you disrespect Ms. Bennett, you'll be out of this industry for good!" Ramon declared.

After his stern warning, the staff began whispering among themselves.

"Is it true? The future Mrs. Carter is our new chief designer? She looks so young!"

"She must be amazing to have both Mr. and Ms. Carter backing her. Stay away from her and don't cause trouble, or you'll regret it. Now, get back to work before Ramon makes us pull an all-nighter!"