Chapter 158 Taking Action
Upon learning that Maggie had completed her design, Emily couldn't contain her excitement. "Show me," she implored, her voice brimming with anticipation. "I have no doubt that your design skills are exceptional."With a few swift clicks, Maggie brought up her designs on her computer. She had meticulously crafted a variety of pieces, ranging from earrings to necklaces, rings, and bracelets. Each piece bore Maggie's signature simplicity, yet they were all unique, exuding a vintage charm.Maggie began to explain each design. "This ring," she started, holding up an image of a delicate piece, "features two small water droplets, symbolizing double luck. As for these earrings, they're shaped like amaryllis flowers, also known as love flowers, representing faithful love."She continued, her voice steady and confident, "Behind the amaryllis flower lies a poignant story that can bring tears to the eyes. I've learned that Mrs. Mitchell's daughter has a penchant for vintage elements and has amassed a collection of vintage clothing. So, I've incorporated vintage elements into each design. Paired with her vintage attire, these pieces of jewelry will be even more striking."Emily looked at her in awe. "Maggie, how do you know so much? I'm a jewelry designer too, but I'm nowhere near as insightful as you."Maggie shrugged modestly. "Most jewelry designers design based on their personal style preferences. But not everyone shares our tastes. Since these pieces are custom-made, they need to cater to the customer's needs."Emily nodded in agreement. "You're right. The more renowned designers become, the more self-centered they are. They rarely consider the customer. Maggie, Mrs. Mitchell will undoubtedly be thrilled with your designs."Maggie smiled, her eyes twinkling with modesty. "I just sketched them casually. Mrs. Mitchell is not my client. I'm just an ordinary employee. Now, let's head to the activity room and grab something to eat. I'm a bit peckish."Emily checked her watch. "Isn't it past breakfast time?""I skipped breakfast," Maggie replied, using this as an excuse to steer Emily away. She had also raised her voice slightly so that the people in the corner could overhear. 'If we don't leave, how can we pass the phone to the right person?' she thought.Maggie led Emily to the activity room, engaging her in casual conversation to buy time for those outside to steal her design drawings. Emily, who never cared much for work, suddenly remembered something. "Maggie, are you free tonight? Come with me to a party and broaden your horizons.""What party?" Maggie asked, her curiosity piqued. She had only attended slightly more upscale events with Dulcinea and had never been to a lavish party."It's hosted by the Hars Group. They're using the party as a platform to discuss business deals. I heard that the CEO of Visionary Futures Group will also be there."Emily's eyes sparkled with excitement. "He's the man I adore the most. I must go."Maggie couldn't help but smile at Emily's enthusiasm. It reminded her of Dulcinea, who had been just as excited to meet the CEO of Visionary Futures Group. "If you're free, I'll accompany you. As you said, let's broaden our horizons and see what high society gatherings are like.""Fantastic! You don't have a formal dress, do you? I'll have someone prepare one for you." Emily was efficient and immediately made a call to arrange for a dress.Maggie noticed that the time was ripe, and the bait was set. She left with Emily, but not before returning to her seat and glancing at her computer, confirming that it had been tampered with. The office's surveillance had been broken for a week and was yet to be fixed. This was the perfect opportunity to set a trap.As expected, by the afternoon, Selena presented a design draft that pleased Mrs. Mitchell. As Selena instructed her assistant to take the design draft to the production team, Maggie signaled Emily to intercept Amy, using the excuse of admiring the design, to bring the design draft over for everyone to see and learn from Selena.Emily was the first to express surprise when the design draft was unveiled. "Maggie, isn't this the design draft you drew?" she asked, her voice laced with confusion.Emily was no fool. She quickly understood why Maggie had signaled her to stop Amy and examine the design draft. It seemed that Maggie had anticipated Selena's plagiarism.'I'll help you play this drama well,' Emily thought, her words immediately drawing the attention of the entire department.Amy was quick to defend Selena. "This is the design draft Chief Selena drew for Mrs. Mitchell. How could it be Maggie's design draft? Emily, don't spread rumors.""I'm not spreading rumors. This morning, Maggie showed me her design draft, and it's identical to this one," Emily retorted, accusing Selena of plagiarism.The office was suddenly abuzz with whispers and murmurs. Plagiarism was a disgrace for a designer.Maggie feigned confusion. "How did my design draft end up being Selena's?"Hearing the commotion outside, Selena emerged from her office. But Maggie was quick to confront her. "Selena, can you explain why my design draft is now yours?"