Love's Bitter Edge (Eva and Leonard)

The photos were mostly taken as we were leaving the bar. The angles were peculiar, with some making it seem like Zack was holding me. In one of the photos, it even looked like we were kissing. I scanned the room. Mr. Finnley avoided eye contact while Mackenzie's initial shock quickly gave way to a mocking smirk. The representatives from Gray Realty, however, looked unimpressed. "Is this what your company prepared for us? Ms. Surrey's romantic escapades?" one of them asked coldly.

Laughter erupted across the room, and all eyes turned to me.

Astrid looked visibly anxious, unsure of what to do. Meanwhile, Annie quietly slipped out while no one was paying attention.

I closed the slideshow and opened the design software without missing a beat. "Apologies. It seems someone thought this would make for a funny prank. But don't worry, it won't disrupt our meeting."

I couldn't afford to waste time. Gray Realty's visit was clearly a surprise inspection to evaluate potential partners. I needed to act fast.

I began sketching directly in the software. "Since this visit was unannounced, I'll walk you through the design concept and key details based on what we've prepared so far," I said confidently.

I started outlining my ideas, taking into account the terrain and surrounding environment. Strangely, ever since my surgery, my mind felt sharper. Even though I had only reviewed this project twice, I could recall the details with clarity.

As a professional, I had made it my job to thoroughly understand the client's requirements from the start. While sketching, I highlighted key points in my design, observing the representatives' growing admiration. It was clear this partnership was almost a sure thing.

As I was wrapping up my presentation, Annie slipped back in and handed me a USB drive. "Here's your USB. You'll probably need it," she whispered.

I glanced at her, surprised but grateful. I nodded. "Ladies and gentlemen, I'd also like to show you some additional highlights of the design."

I always carried a backup of important files on this USB, which doubled as a keychain. I hadn't expected Annie to notice and come to my rescue.

Mr. Finnley's and Mackenzie's

expressions soured further when the

presentation resumed on the big screen. had a good idea of who had tried to sabotage me, but I didn't dwell on it. Instead, I smiled at them

and carried on.

After finishing the presentation, Gray Realty's lead representative led the applause. "Rinatta, your design is excellent. Live sketching, too? Truly impressive."

Mr. Finnley quickly chimed in with his usual polite demeanor, "Rinatta is one of our top designers. If your company collaborates with us, you'll receive the most professional design services available."

However, his clenched fists betrayedContent is property of NôvelDrama.Org.

his frustration. Mackenzie was even less composed, letting out a cold snort. "What's the point of great designs if someone's characteris questionable? That would affect the work more, wouldn't it?"

Her frosty glare was directed at me, but I could only think she was being irrational. Even if she didn't like me, making such a comment in front of potential clients was absurd.

Astrid rolled her eyes. "If you're sick, go get your head checked. Better yet, keep quiet."

Even Mr. Finnley shot Mackenzie a warning look before plastering on a smile and escorting the Gray Realty representatives out.

Before leaving, one of the

representatives turned back to me. "Rinatta, your design is impressivez But you should be cautious. If we collaborate and your designs get sabotaged or altered, the blame will faff on you."