As the door closed behind them, Vivian's expression turned serious, ' Let's talk, Sophia '.
Sophia sat in her room, staring at her mother. "What's wrong, mother? Sophia asked
"It's about Liam," Vivian replied. "You need to put more effort into attracting his attention. We can't afford to lose the Grey's financial backing ".
You are well aware of our place in the Richmond's family.
Sophia sighed. "I'll try, Mother".
Vivian's eyes narrowed slightly, her voice taking on a more urgent tone. "Try isn't enough, Sophia. You need to succeed".
Sophia felt a surge of pressure, her mind racing with ways to win Liam over. I'll do whatever it takes, Mother," she said, determination etched on her face.
Vivian's expression softened slightly, a hint of pride in her voice. "I know you will, Sophia. You're Richmond and you will always be ".
With that, Vivian turned and left the room, leaving Sophia to ponder her next move.
,,,
Liam sat in his office, staring out the window as his phone rang. It was his mother, Evelyn.
He sighed clearly not interested in answering but he eventually did.
"Liam, dear, I've arranged for you to attend the art competition with Sophia," Evelyn said, her voice firm but gentle.
Liam face tightened, a hit of frustration in his voice. "Mother, I don't see the point. I'm not interested in Sophia romantically. "
Evelyn's voice remained gentle. "This is about the business, Liam. You need to take her to the art competition and make a good impression".
Liam sighed, still on the phone with his mother. "Fine, mother. I'll attend the art competition with Sophia but I'm not making any promises about the engagement."
Evelyn's voice remained calm. "I understand, Liam. Just make a good impression and we'll take it from there.'
Liam nodded, even though his mother couldn't see him . "I'll do that, Mother."
As he hung up the phone Liam couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. A stock loss now could be disastrous for the company. He needed to find a way to end the engagement without compromising his company's interests.
,,,
At The University..
Ruby had been dedicating her time preparing for the art competition in between her part-time job and classes. Ava had been helpful taking on Ruby's shift, since she was employed.
No doubt, Ruby is a talented artist, her passion shone through her work.
The scheduled date for submitting the portfolio would be Friday and what it entails would be explained during the weekend .
As she put the finishing touches into her piece, she felt a mix of excitement and nerves.
Ruby's art was a reflection of her personality - bold, vibrant and full of life. She had to submit her portfolio to the head of her department today. Her friend Ava had been complimenting her work, making positive remarks.
Ruby nervously walked into the department office, her portfolio clutched tightly in her hands. She had worked tirelessly on her art pieces, and she was proud of what she had created.
As she approached the reception desk, she felt a sense of unease. What if her work wasn't good enough? What if she didn't get selected?
Ruby took a deep breath and handed over her portfolio to the receptionist. "Hi, I'm here to submit my portfolio for the art competition," she said, trying to sound confident.
The receptionist smiled and took the portfolio. "Thank you Ruby. We'll make sure to submit it on time".
Meanwhile, Dani had been watching Ruby ever since the announcement was made. She had placed Sam and Brittany on Ruby's watch.
She couldn't stand the thought of Ruby winning the art competition and gaining recognition. She knew Ruby was talented, but she can't come to terms with it.
She was always compared to Ruby, who had all the positive traits.
Dani had been planning for days. She had been waiting for the perfect moment to strike, and now that Ruby had submitted her portfolio, Dani saw her chance.
As Ruby left, Dani stepped in.
She had bribed the department's receptionist to switch Ruby's portfolio with a fake one that Dani had created.
The fake portfolio was filled with mediocre art pieces, nothing compared to Ruby's usual work.
After the switch, Dani asked the receptionist to change the name on the portfolio to her own . The receptionist, feeling uneasy about the situation, reluctantly agreed.
Having been watching Ruby for days, she knew the quality of paper and hardcover to prepare.
Dani smiled to herself, feeling a sense of satisfaction. She walked out of the office, appearing nonchalant.She knew that Ruby's Chances of winning were now slim to none...
,,,
Liam held a meeting earlier about the Johnson's report with the representative, Mr Johnson. and it just so happens that the competition was decided to be held at the university.
,,,
Day Of The Competition..
The Apex Initiatives and the Johnson's Cooperative had made a joint post concerning the art competition and where it will be held.
The day of the Art competition, the university's auditorium was buzzing with excitement. Since the post went viral, reporters had been on standby at the university and with the news of Liam arriving,they were more.
The university had received a message that their biggest shareholder - Liam Grey would be attending.
Through the bustling at the university, a black sedan accompanied by two other cars arrived. With students speculating about who it was, the first and third car opened and guards came out while rushing to open the second car.
The black sedan which happens to be it, was opened and none other than Liam Grey stepped out flanked by his guards.
At the other end, Sophia stepped out but went unnoticed which got her greatly displeased.
While Liam straightened his suit, Sophia ran towards his side in order to gain attention.
However, Liam barely acknowledged Sophia's presence while walking towards the auditorium.
Liam's presence drew attention from both the non-students, students, faculty members, guardians/ parents who watch to attend the art competition.
Reporters and camera crews swarmed around Liam and Sophia asking questions and taking photos for two reasons - to capture a glimpse of Liam Grey and also to capture Liam and Sophia being in the same frame regarding their engagement post.
As they walked to the auditorium, Liam's eyes scanned the room, taking in the vibrant pieces on display.
Sophia tried to keep up with him, but he seemed to be deliberately keeping her at arms length.
"Sophia, smile for the camera," one of the reporters called out.
Sophia forced a smile, while Liam's expression remained neutral.
"Mr Grey, can you tell us about your relationship with Miss Richmond?" another reporter asked.
Liam's response was brief, "we're attending the competition together."
Sophia's eyes narrowed slightly, feeling a pang of frustration. She tried to grab Liam's arm, but he subtly shifted his position, avoiding her touch.
On reaching the auditorium, Liam and Sophia took their seats, the emcee took the stage, welcoming everyone to the art competition.
The judges were introduced and the competition began....