I Swapped His Fake Gift for a Real Life novel Chapter 33

Ivy scoffed, venom sharpening her tone. “Who knows if you earned it fairly?”

Nova didn’t flinch. From her clutch, she retrieved a cream–colored, gold–embossed business card, offering it to the

Valentino design director beside her. “Since Ms. Callahan questions my credentials, perhaps this will clarify.”

The director scanned the card, eyes widening. “Nadia Sterling? You’re this year’s Lume Ateliers Design Grand Prix

winner?”

A ripple of impressed murmurs spread instantly.

“Nadia Sterling? If she lacks credentials, who has them?”

“Exactly! This Ms. Callahan–who even is she? Perhaps she’s the gatecrasher?”

“Sounds like pure jealousy. Didn’t you catch it? The Callahan clearly wrecked their marriage and can’t own it.”

Ivy’s face blanched. She melted against Zane, tears welling. “No! Zane, I never meant-*

Nova’s smile remained serene. “Mr. Blackthorn, Ms. Callahan. If there’s nothing else, I’m out..” She turned to leave.

Zane shoved Ivy aside–not roughly, but decisively. His hand closed around Nova’s wrist. “We talk. Now.”

Nova paused, glancing coolly at his grip. “Release me, Mr. Blackthorn.”

His fingers tightened, eyes darkening.

Ivy lunged forward, clutching Zane’s other arm, her voice saccharine with concern. ‘Zane! Our meeting with Mr. Smith?

We can’t be late-

For the first time. Zane ignored her. His gaze remained locked on Nova. ‘Just five minutes‘

Nova twisted her wrist free. ‘I have prior commitments with colleagues Good evening‘ She walked away, spine straight

toward a cluster of designers.

Zane stood rooted, a storm brewing in his eyes.

Ivy glared daggers at Nova’s retreating back, then turned to Zane, lip trembling “Zane, why is she so cruel? Does she still

blame me? But I-‘

‘Go back to the hotel. His voice held an unfamiliar edge.

‘What?”

“Now.” The impatience was unmistakable.

Chapter 15: Crowning Glory.

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Tears spilled, “You’re going after her?”

Zane didn’t glance at her. He strode purposefully toward Nova.

Ivy stood alone, nails biting crescents into her palms, eyes burning with hatred.

Nova was deep in conversation, unaware of Zane’s approach until his shadow fell over her.

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