My Husband's Affair My Anniversary Gift (Lily and David) novel Chapter 195

Even David who had promised himself he wouldn’t let his emotions show couldn’t look away.

As she placed the ring under the light, the blue gem caught the reflection and scattered it into tiny fragments of silver-blue, like frozen tears shimmering midair.

For a moment, the hall was utterly still. Then came a slow clap one, then another, until the entire room erupted in applause.

The judges exchanged quiet nods, their faces impressed.

When the results were announced, the room burst with cheers.

“The winner of this year’s International Jewelry Design Competition is : Aurora!”

Lily froze, unable to move for a second. She blinked, as if trying to be sure she had heard correctly.

Linda screamed from the side and ran to hug her tightly. “You did it! Lily, you did it!”

Lily’s eyes filled with tears. All those sleepless nights, the struggles, the doubt, it all led to this moment. She turned toward the judges’ table instinctively, and her gaze met David’s.

He wasn’t smiling broadly like the others. His expression was subtle proud, gentle, and a little sad. But in his eyes, there was something warm, something unspoken that reached her heart.

For a fleeting second, Lily felt peace.

But it didn’t last.

Not long after the ceremony, whispers began spreading through the hall like wildfire. People huddled in corners, their voices hushed but sharp.

“Did you see the photo?”

“Someone said she was seen getting out of Mr. Hardison's car this morning.”

“And leaving the same hotel too...”

“She must have seduced him to win.”

The words hit her like stones.

Linda came rushing toward her, phone trembling in her hand. “Lily… you need to see this.”

On the screen were photos one of her stepping out of David’s car, another of her leaving the hotel lobby. The angles were blurry, but clear enough to destroy everything she had worked for.

Lily’s face turned pale. “No… no, this can’t be happening,” she whispered.

When she looked up, David was standing a few feet away, his expression hard. Reporters and staff were already turning toward them, murmuring louder and louder.

Lily’s heart clenched painfully. She glared at him, eyes burning with unshed tears.

Her gaze spoke what her trembling lips couldn’t, if this ruins me, I’ll never forgive you.

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