Chapter 178

Cassandra Winslow saw nothing wrong with her words.

To her, the moment Edmund Whitaker chose Evelyn Carter over her, their teacher-student bond had already fractured.

She pressed her lips together and said bluntly, "Professor, your chosen candidate doesn’t impress me."

Edmund’s expression darkened.

Evelyn, noticing this, made her decision. "Ms. Winslow, I accept your challenge."

Cassandra smirked. "Good. At least you have spine. But let me be clear—I won’t hold back. Prepare to lose."

Her confidence was unshakable.

Evelyn remained composed. "We’ll see. Though, Ms. Winslow, respect for our mentors should never be forgotten."

Cassandra’s face twisted. "Who do you think you are, lecturing me?"

"Not a lecture," Evelyn countered smoothly. "Just a reminder."

Cassandra shot Edmund a look, her pride stung.

"Professor, I—"

He waved her off. "Enough. We’re relics of the past. The stage belongs to you now."

His gaze shifted between them. "Prove yourselves. The audience will decide who deserves the title."

Cassandra’s eyes gleamed with ruthless determination.

She had to win.

"Evelyn, let’s settle this with skill. Three days. Bring your best work—if you even have any."

Evelyn didn’t flinch. "Agreed. May the best design speak for itself."

Their locked gazes crackled with tension.

Without another word, Cassandra spun on her heel and left.

The onlookers, seasoned in drama, exchanged amused glances.

One man couldn’t resist stirring the pot.

"Edmund, don’t be rash. Cassandra’s been your star pupil for years. Why humiliate her for a novice?"

His mocking eyes flicked to Evelyn. "The outcome’s obvious. Though…" He chuckled. "I suppose you’ll regret this."

The crowd tittered. Only Edmund remained unfazed.

"Patience. The results aren’t in yet. Don’t celebrate prematurely—the slowest arrow often strikes truest."

No one dared argue.

"Fine. We’ll see in three days."

As the room emptied, only Evelyn, Olivia Sinclair, and Edmund remained.

Olivia, ever perceptive, excused herself. "I’ll wait in the car."

Alone, Evelyn finally voiced her doubt.

"Professor… why me?"

Edmund cut her off gently. "Don’t overthink it. Just create."

His faith was unwavering.

Evelyn swallowed her questions. She wouldn’t fail him.

"I won’t let you down."