Ste’sst hope shattered as Devyn remained stubborn.


    It was clear she wasn’t going to confess.


    Ste’s politeness vanished, reced by a sharp tone.


    “We haven’t seen each other in a long time.


    You suddenly reached out, didn’t you? For a reason.


    ”


    With a self-mocking smile, Ste spoke.


    “Under the guise of coboration, you’ve been eyeing my designs, haven’t you?”


    Devyn clenched her mouse, her lips pressed tight, offering no defense.


    Ste’s disappointment deepened at Devyn’s silence.


    Heartbroken, Ste let it out.


    “I wouldn’t have believed you were capable of this if I hadn’t seen it myself! I’ve always had your back, offered to help.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Why stoop to giarism?”


    Devyn quivered but steadied herself.


    She’d copied Ste’s work discreetly and there was no proof in sight.


    With resolve, Devyn spoke up, meeting Ste’s gaze.


    “Why use me without proof? Show evidence or face defamation charges.


    ”


    “Defamation?”


    Ste shook her head, stunned.


    Devyn seemed like a whole new person to her.


    With a bitter smile, Ste spoke.


    “Looks like absence really does change people.


    You can twist things without batting an eye.


    I misjudged you.


    ”


    Under Ste’s icy stare, Devyn felt a chill creep over her.


    Through gritted teeth, she retorted, “You’re clueless.


    Who are you to judge me so boldly?”


    Protected by Matthew, Ste had never felt this powerless, nor tormented by life’s cruelty.


    Devyn, on the other hand, was always the one being pushed around, never given a choice!


    Devyn’s temper cooled.


    She didn’t want to argue further.


    “I’m swamped here.


    You can leave.


    If you’ve got a case, show me proof.


    ”


    Seeing that Devyn still didn’t confess, Ste’s gaze held sadness.


    “Since we reconnected, I sensed a change in you.


    I hoped it was just tough times.


    I tried to help…”


    Tears welled up in Ste’s eyes.


    “I’ve done nothing wrong to you.


    I get you’re in a bind, but selling out a friend who’s always had your back? That’s low.


    ”


    Devyn’s heart twinged at Ste’s words, her own guilt gnawing at her.


    She bit her lip tightly, afraid that she would waver.


    Ste pressed on, “You’re right.


    I have no evidence now, but I’ll find it.


    Everything leaves a trace.


    ”


    With finality, Ste mmed the door, leaving Devyn in stunned silence.