Nemesis - Trek for Truth: Searching for Evidence

Chapter 13 - Trek for Truth: Searching for Evidence

The morning sun slips through the window of Rani's room, bathing the room in a gentle, warm glow.

Tring, tring, tring...

Rani's phone alarm pierces the tranquility, signaling it's time to prepare for work. She reaches for the phone on her bedside table and silences the noise. With a reluctant sigh, she rises from her bed and makes her way to the bathroom. Cold water splashes on her face, refreshing her mind but failing to wash away the lingering guilt. After her morning routine, she selects a simple yet elegant outfit, befitting the high standards of Oscar de la Renta. Today, Rani steps into her role as a regular designer, no longer part of Monica's team. The decision is tough since she loses the chance to be part of New York Fashion Week, but she knows it is the right one. Monica's team steals designs for the event and starts developing those stolen creations. Despite leaving the team, guilt clings to Rani like a shadow. She blames herself for allowing it to happen and for not stopping her colleagues from stealing Sandra's designs.

Upon arriving at the office, Rani heads straight to her room. She pulls out her sketchbook from her bag and begins sketching, letting the ideas flow onto the paper. As she draws, a sudden thought strikes her.

"There are traces in the group chat," Rani realizes.

Her eyes light up as she recalls the evidence in their group chat. Quickly, she opens her phone and starts searching through old conversations. She screenshots all the chats that could serve as evidence and saves Monica's voice notes instructing Mela to threaten Laurel into stealing Sandra's ideas.

"This could be crucial evidence," Rani murmurs to herself.

She also saves the photos of Farid and Laurel that Mela sent to the group chat. After gathering all the evidence she can, Rani begins to plan her next steps. She decides that tomorrow she will reveal everything to Sandra.

"I need to meet Sandra and give all this to her," she thinks.

Her heart feels a bit lighter, knowing she can at least try to right the wrongs that have been done.

***

The next morning, Oscar de la Renta buzzes with activity. Employees deftly attend to customers arriving to admire the latest collections. Luxurious gowns adorn the mannequins with elegance, while the boutique showcases meticulously crafted clothing collections. Every corner resembles an art exhibition, and each garment is a masterpiece in its own right.

In the designer's workspace, the scene is equally bustling. Everyone is engrossed in their tasks, preparing their finest designs for the upcoming collection. Tables overflow with fabrics, sketches, and design tools. The hum of sewing machines and earnest conversations fills the room. Mood boards brim with inspirational images, fabric swatches, and meticulous notes, reflecting the dedication and seriousness of each designer. Sandra, with her team of Lily and Laurel, stands out, deeply focused. Sandra, the team leader, directs every detail of the designs. Lily meticulously matches fabrics, while Laurel assists Sandra in translating ideas into sketches.

Meanwhile, Rani, working independently, is equally absorbed. Determined to produce her best work, she fills her sketchbook with fresh, flowing ideas. Time slips away unnoticed as Rani immerses herself in her creations. Hours pass swiftly, and before she knows it, it's 7 p.m. It's time for everyone to tidy their workspaces and prepare to leave. Rani exhales deeply, satisfied with the day's accomplishments. However, she knows there's one crucial task left to do.