Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 23

**Paths Lead To Purpose — Kevin Masters
Chapter 23**

“Fine, I sincerely hope my bag gets tossed out too,” Zoe remarked with a hint of sarcasm, though deep down, she didn’t truly mean it. *After all, who knows who might end up buying from whom?* The thought lingered in her mind, an unsettling mix of curiosity and doubt.

She simply couldn’t fathom it. There was no conceivable way Ophelia’s design could eclipse her own.

Owen observed the two Ophelias, their excitement palpable, before he discreetly pulled Dylan aside, his voice low and conspiratorial. “Dylan, who do you think is going to take the crown?”

Dylan offered a small, knowing smile. “Ophelia just got back home, so naturally, I’m rooting for her.”

At his words, a flicker of disappointment crossed Zoe’s face, but she quickly masked it with a forced graciousness. “Dylan’s right. We should rally behind Ophelia. I wouldn’t want her to feel disheartened if things don’t go her way.”

Owen chuckled, leaning into the camaraderie. “Then I’m on Team Ophelia as well. Once the other brothers return, we can all place our bets. Losers will treat the winners to a grand meal.”

“You only care about the food,” Dylan replied, a helpless laugh escaping his lips.

The whole family erupted in laughter, the warmth of their banter wrapping around them like a cozy blanket. “Owen is definitely a foodie,” someone chimed in, and the laughter continued to flow.

As their meal wound down, filled with cheerful chatter and playful jabs, Dylan lingered at the table, engaging in light conversation with their parents. Meanwhile, Ophelia ascended the stairs, her mind set on retrieving her design sketches. She returned moments later, handing the USB drive to Dylan with a sense of purpose.

“Dylan, I really appreciate your help. Just mention my name to anyone you meet and pass along this USB drive,” she instructed, her tone earnest and hopeful.

Zoe couldn’t resist a scoff, her skepticism bubbling to the surface. “Ophelia, even if you’ve participated in design contests before, how do you expect anyone to take your designs seriously just because they hear your name? This is Caterina we’re discussing.”

*Every year, they churn out countless successful products. How could they possibly care about a nobody like Ophelia?* she mused inwardly.

Ophelia, however, wore a calm smile, unbothered by Zoe’s jabs. “You won’t know unless you give it a shot.”

Seeing Ophelia so resolute, Dylan hesitated to deflate her enthusiasm. “You’re right. You have to try. A design you created yourself carries a special weight. I’ll head out now,” he said, his voice filled with determination.

Truth be told, he thought that if they rejected her, he wouldn’t share that with her. He’d simply find another way to handle it, shielding her from disappointment.

“Okay,” Ophelia replied, her resolve unwavering.

Nearby, Zoe sighed dramatically. “Dylan’s a well-known musician. If he ends up rejected over something like this, it’ll be so embarrassing. How will you make it up to him, Ophelia?”

She was convinced that Dylan would face humiliation.

“If they say no, I’ll treat Dylan to a meal,” Ophelia offered, her smile brightening the room.

Owen leaped up in excitement. “Count me in!”

“Alright, if Dylan doesn’t succeed, the rest of us will join him,” Ophelia said with a playful grin.

Zoe quickly added, “Sounds like a plan. Ophelia, you have to stick to your word. I’m definitely going to that new restaurant.”

Ophelia had just returned home and didn’t have much money, prompting Zoe to wonder how she intended to cover the costs.

As Zoe still had the audacity to expect Ophelia to treat them, Ophelia raised an eyebrow and retorted, “Sure, but if they accept my designs, there goes the meal. How about you treat us instead, Zoe?”

Owen’s joy was infectious. “Awesome! Either way, I’m getting a feast.”

Adrian and Victoria, watching the lively exchange, couldn’t help but join in. “That’s a brilliant idea. Dylan just got back today. It’s a perfect opportunity for your siblings to bond.”

Zoe’s expression stiffened, but given the circumstances, she had no option but to acquiesce. “Of course. Otherwise, I’d be the one treating Dylan. It’s settled then.”

Yet, in her heart, she scoffed, *Caterina would never lend a hand in making her clothes. What a ridiculous notion!*

Dylan beamed, “This is the first time two sisters are competing to treat me to a meal. I’ll be quick; see you at lunch.”

With that, he made his exit.

Zoe turned to Owen, her excitement palpable. “Owen, start brainstorming what we’re going to eat for lunch.”

*Since Ophelia is paying, it’ll definitely be something extravagant,* she thought, her mind racing with possibilities.

Owen grinned at Ophelia, his enthusiasm contagious. “Ophelia, what are you in the mood for?”

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