Chapter 39

Alexia finished her presentation and returned to her seat with the applause continuing around her. As she passed Steve, he glanced at her with newfound admiration. "You've got a bright future ahead of you. The top spot in this competition is practically yours." Alexia was taken aback by his words, her mind racing. "Thank you, Mr. Miller. But compared to you, I still have a lot to learn." Steve smiled. "Don't sell yourself short. My judgment's usually spot-on. The applause from the audience and the judges' praise say it all." Alexia smiled back. "Then I'll take that as a good sign." Nearby, Hailey overheard their conversation and clenched her jaw in frustration. As Alexia walked past her, she deliberately stepped on her foot. Alexia frowned but kept walking, heading straight for her seat without bothering about Hailey. The seats were packed so tightly that even the whispers from the judges in the front row were easily heard. "We've seen all three designs. Any thoughts?" "In re