Reborn to Marry My Best Friend's Uncle novel Chapter 29

With Cecilia's tear-streaked face and righteous-for-the-crowd posture, she did look convincing.

A few contestants who'd already been unhappy with Annie murmured in agreement.

Annie watched Cecilia's performance and felt her heart go cold. Cecilia was driven to a dead end now. One touch to her weak spot, and her innocent act instantly collapsed.

Onstage, Wallace clearly hadn't expected anyone to challenge the announcement out loud. He frowned, and his facial features twisted in slight irritation.

"Please mind your words, Ms. Lambert. We haven't reached a conclusion yet, so no one has been found guilty of anything.

"This decision was unanimously made by the judging panel, and it's for the fairness of every contestant."

His words carried a warning, but Cecilia could no longer be bothered to care.

"I disagree! This isn't for us, and you're just showing favoritism to Annie! She must've done something shady to bribe the judges!"

The accusation veered so far off the rails that several judges' expressions darkened.

"Security!" Wallace barked, finally losing his patience. Two security guards immediately stepped forward, each taking one of Cecilia's arms as she thrashed hysterically.

"Let me go! I have the right to question the rules!" Cecilia shrieked and struggled until her makeup was streaked, which left her looking utterly undone.

Watching the absurd scene, the other contestants fell silent. Anyone could see that Cecilia was panicking from guilt.

If she truly had the skill she claimed, why would she be so terrified of an on-site challenge? The answer was obvious.

Soon, the staff members cleared the hall and swiftly set up temporary workstations for each contestant, including white fabric, scissors, needles, thread, and mannequins. All necessary tools were provided.

On the giant screen overhead, the three-hour countdown began, signalling the recommencement of the competition.

Standing at her workstation, Annie drew a long breath. She closed her eyes as countless ideas flooded her mind.

Rebirth…

It was a white dress of remarkable design. The main body was cut with clean, elegant lines, which seemed simple yet hid intricate details within.

Fabric layering and pleating were masterfully applied to create wing-like form at the hem and shoulders, as light as butterfly wings. It was like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, perfectly embodying the theme "Rebirth".

What impressed them more was that, though unfinished, the piece showcased such a complete concept and craftsmanship that it left everyone in awe.

"A genius… This is the work of an absolute prodigy!" one judge couldn't help but murmur in admiration.

Wallace repeatedly nodded along.

But when the judges moved to Cecilia's workstation, everyone's brows furrowed. What hung on the mannequin was barely a garment and more of patches of tattered fabric scraps chaotically stitched together.

The contrast was stark and devastating.

Wallace's voice turned cold. "Is this… your piece?"