Chapter 43

Bethany sighed deeply, her gaze fixed on the river's surface. "Megan got hold of my design drafts," she said. Bethany and Regina had poured their hearts into it for ten days, yet the submission deadline was tomorrow at eight o'clock. There was no turning back now. Regina remained silent and gazed into the distance. The two stayed silent, with only the sound of the rustling breeze around them. After a while, Regina broke the silence. "It's okay; you did the right thing." Bethany looked at her in surprise. Regina continued, "Megan must have threatened you with the design drafts, but you didn't give in, right?" "Regina, I'm really sorry." Bethany's voice choked up. "Beth." Regina looked at her with a serious expression and said, "You did nothing wrong." "But—" Regina gently patted Bethany's shoulder and said, "There will be more chances ahead. Just stay true to yourself, whether it's designing or anything else." "But will my withdrawal from the competition affect you?" Bethany