Her Hidden Crowns (Suzanne and Austin) novel Chapter 279

Looking back now, whether Suzanne had actually plagiarized the design for Khalil remained an open question.

Suzanne, however, paid no mind to the scrutinizing gazes around her. Instead, her eyes landed directly on Seline as she asked, "As the manager of the design department, you'll be participating too, won't you?"

Seline stiffened at her question.

She owed her position mostly to being Henry's daughter rather than to her design skills. Winning an award was out of the question. Her private sketches often needed retouching just to look presentable.

But hardly anyone knew that. She wondered if Suzanne knew something.

Suppressing her unease, Seline maintained a warm, composed smile. "I won't be competing for a spot. I'll leave it to you all. Do your best."

Her words earned her a wave of admiration for being a generous leader. She was willingly giving up such an important opportunity for them. Those who had previously held reservations about her suddenly felt touched by her selflessness.

Suzanne nodded, her gaze lingering on Seline with a knowing look.

"I see. Well then, if there's nothing else, we should end the meeting," she muttered. With that, she stood, gathered her things, and headed out.

Suspicion crept into Seline's mind, wondering why Suzanne brought it up so out of the blue.

Was she threatening her? Did she somehow know Seline lacked the skills to compete and this was a silent warning to stay in line?

Shaking off the ridiculous thought, Seline narrowed her eyes and clenched her fists under the table, her nails digging into her palms.

Suzanne better not try anything. Otherwise, she wouldn't hold back.

But just as that thought crossed her mind, she suddenly realized something, and her expression darkened.

She was the department manager. Who did Suzanne think she was to declare the meeting over?

As she watched Suzanne stroll away without a care, Seline's fists clenched even tighter.

She had to maintain her composure. But inside, she seethed, "That wretched woman!"

His slightly wrinkled face was stretched into a deferential smile as he carefully slid a folder across the table.

"Mr. Hall, please have a look at our proposal. If we move forward with this collaboration, we're bound to make a fortune in Azure City," Zane stated.

He had already lowered his asking price to the bare minimum, convinced that Austin wouldn't refuse. After all, only a fool would turn down easy money.

Austin's cold gaze swept over the folder before he flipped it open with a single motion. He barely skimmed the contents before lifting his eyes to meet Zane's.

That one glance alone made Zane unconsciously straighten his back.

Sensing an opening, he quickly leaned in with a knowing smile.

"Mr. Hall, as long as you agree, we're willing to meet whatever terms you set."

He wasn't just after the deal—he was after the prestige of working with Hall Corporation. With their name backing him, securing future investments would be effortless.