Chapter 243

Lily answered Xavier's call not because she wanted to, but rather out of fear that he might show up and confront her in front of everyone if she didn't. Any interaction between contestants and sponsors or judges was highly sensitive in the eyes of others during competitions. The slightest misstep could lead to accusations of favoritism or corruption. Xavier left her with a cryptic remark before hanging up, leaving the persistent sound of the dial tone ringing in her ears. She regained her senses and stared at her darkened phone screen momentarily before shoving it back into her pocket and silently continuing to wait for a ride. Perhaps due to the shortage of cars and abundance of people, the hotel security arranged for carpooling for those headed in the same direction, speeding up the process considerably. Two male designers happened to be going the same way as Lily, so they shared a ride. Since her home was the farthest, they dropped the other two first before heading to Bayview