Nemesis (Full Version)

Chapter 10 - The Treacherous Path: Unveiling Betrayal

The sky begins to clear, signaling the arrival of morning. Everyone at the Oscar de la Renta boutique resumes their activities. That morning, Ms. Lani arrives with her characteristic serious expression. She calls all the employees to gather. The workers begin to suspect that Ms. Lani will once again evaluate their work from the past week, and it seems there will be an important announcement, judging by her displeased look at their designs from the last six days. Not a single word has yet escaped Ms. Lani's lips, but she has already succeeded in making the entire room anxious, with none daring to meet her gaze.

The room is so silent that even the ticking of the clock can be heard.

"As you all know, I am disappointed with your previous work." She takes a brief breath and folds her arms across her chest, surveying each of her employees. Her eyes still reflect disappointment, though slightly masked by her stern demeanor.

"Therefore, to prevent this from happening again, I want you all to form groups of three and work together. Impress me with your best work over the next week." Ms. Lani continues firmly before leaving the room.

The employees feel disheartened and regret their past efforts. As soon as Ms. Lani departs, they begin discussing and moving around to form groups. However, Monica stands alone, lost in thought with a vacant expression. The poor reception of her designs by Ms. Lani has left her feeling deeply dejected.

Sandra, noticing her from across the room, quickly approaches Monica. Without hesitation, she invites her to join her team.

"Monica, would you like to join my team? We can work together to impress Ms. Lani. I believe you have great ideas," Sandra says, hoping Monica will accept her offer. Sandra also wants to boost Monica's confidence in her work and not dwell on her sadness.

"I'm sorry Sandra. I have to decline your offer. They asked me first." Monica's gaze shifts towards two people in the corner of the room who are looking at them with hopeful expressions.

Sandra takes a deep breath, trying to mask her disappointment with a gentle smile. "All right, Mon," she replies understandingly. She realizes Monica has already made her choice.

Sandra then turns and leaves Monica, seeking another person to complete her team.

The teams are divided into five, each consisting of three members. Once all the employees have their groups, they immediately begin discussing their next designs. The workers exchange ideas cohesively and focus intently on their tasks.

With renewed determination, they work hard to correct their past mistakes and resolve to impress Ms. Lani with their best creations.
At Studio de la Renta

Farid enters the studio with a camera in hand, ready to capture the beauty of Oscar de la Renta's latest collection. The creative atmosphere and stunning details always inspire him, sharpening his focus on his task as a talented photographer. Today, he is particularly eager to see Sandra, his girlfriend, to share the excitement of his work. However, after searching around the studio, he can't find Sandra anywhere.

Feeling a bit disappointed, Farid decides to head to the workspace he is supposed to visit. Just before leaving the room, his gaze falls on a familiar face—Laurel, an old friend from school. Laurel is engrossed in her work and deeply absorbed in the design details she is working on.

Farid smiles to himself at the sight of Laurel, recalling their school days filled with stories and laughter. Although he is initially disappointed not to see Sandra, Laurel's presence brings a sense of warmth and comfort. With a heart full of hope, he decides to approach Laurel and start a long-overdue conversation.

"Laurel! Sorry to interrupt. I didn't know you worked here too," Farid says with a hesitant smile.

"Farid! Yes, I've been here for a few months now. What brings you here?" Laurel asks, surprised by Farid's sudden appearance.