Chapter 244

"The password hasn't changed. You can check it yourself," Evelyn Sullivan said coolly.

"Fine."

The final round's theme was evening gown design, giving contestants ample creative freedom.

Designers worked with unprecedented focus, taking noticeably longer to complete their sketches. The first submission appeared on the judges' screens only after ninety minutes.

A black velvet slip dress with a V-neckline and delicate chain belt exuded effortless elegance in its simplicity.

Evelyn swiftly assigned scores and comments before uploading her evaluation.

Inside the venue, designers remained engrossed in their creations.

Isabella Jackson, her cast and crutches drawing frequent camera attention, crafted a rose-pink strapless gown. Twenty layers of tulle cascaded in a high-low hemline, the cinched waist lending ethereal movement.

Social media erupted instantly.

【This dress is everything! Mass-produce it NOW!】

【Isabella's got this in the bag. Crown her already!】

【Designing on crutches? Queen behavior!】

Isabella's follower count skyrocketed as official accounts flooded with praise.

Another hour passed before all submissions were finalized. Judges began scoring each entry individually.

Evelyn's efficiency proved staggering—she completed evaluations in under sixty minutes. While hailing a cab outside, Frank Ferguson's call interrupted her departure.

"Ms. Sullivan, I heard you've finished judging all entries?"

"Correct. Anything else?"

A pause. "There's something you should know... Isabella Jackson is competing."

"And?"

"Current scores indicate she'll likely win."

Evelyn chuckled. "Not my concern."

The disconnected line left Frank sighing at his assistant. "Proceed with the original announcement."

Isabella ultimately claimed victory with 92.5 points. Victoria Farley immediately phoned William Jackson, demanding he spread the news to their entire social circle.