Chapter 95

Serena's POV

I entered the recording studio for "Battle of the Needle" and took my assigned seat as directed by the show producer.

This pilot episode focused on introducing contestants to the audience and pairing designers with celebrity partners.

When it was my turn to be introduced as StarRiver Group's Chief Designer, I could feel the skeptical glances from around the room. It was clear they assumed my selection for the show was merely a publicity stunt. After all, what could be more dramatic than having the "Sinclair sisters" - Nina and me - competing against each other?

"Please welcome Serena Sinclair, Chief Designer of StarRiver Group!"

The host's voice carried a subtle undertone that made my job title sound like a punchline. I maintained my composure as I took my place at the center stage, the spotlights creating a perfect circle of isolation around me.

"Thank you for having me," I said, my voice steady and professional. "As a designer, I prefer to let my work speak for itself." Short, direct - exactly how I wanted to present myself.

The whispers in the audience grew louder. I caught fragments of their conversations: "...just another corporate heir..." "...probably bought her position..." Their judgment was expected, almost boring in its predictability.

The real show began when Nina took the stage. She practically floated to the center, her white dress catching the light perfectly. The host's voice suddenly gained genuine warmth.

"Nina Sinclair, graduate of Parsons School of Design, winner of the Rising Star Fashion Award, and the face of Whitemore International's youth collection!"

The audience erupted in applause. Sixteen celebrities rose from their seats, each holding up a card expressing their desire to partner with her. My lips curved into a slight smile - not out of joy, but recognition. This was exactly the kind of spectacle Nina lived for.

"I'm truly honored," Nina's voice dripped with practiced modesty. "And I would love to partner with Evelyn Whitmore."

More applause. More adoration. I watched as Evelyn - sleek and polished in her designer outfit - embraced Nina like a long-lost sister. Their performance was flawless, I had to give them that.

After the introductions, none of the celebrity contestants chose me as their partner. They seemed to prioritize practical concerns over potential drama - while my presence might boost ratings, they worried about being eliminated alongside me in the first round. The show's rules were clear: if a designer was eliminated, their celebrity partner would leave with them. This made everyone particularly cautious about their choices.

"Serena," the host turned back to me, his tone apologetic, "it seems we have one remaining partner for you - Olivia Warren."

Olivia stood up hesitantly. She was known as the lowest-ranked celebrity on the show, but there was something genuine in her uncertain smile that I found refreshing.

"I would be happy to work with Ms. Warren," I said, meaning every word. Authenticity over popularity - I'd made that choice long ago.

The actual competition portion passed in a blur of fabric and focused concentration. When the judges began their evaluation, the studio fell silent.

"This is... unexpected," the first judge said, studying our design with genuine interest. "The technical execution is impeccable. The innovation in the structural elements while maintaining wearability - this is professional-level work."

"Fifth place," the head judge announced, "goes to Serena Sinclair and Olivia Warren."

I heard Nina's sharp intake of breath before I saw her expression crack. For a split second, her perfect mask slipped, revealing the fury beneath. Fifth place out of twenty teams - not bad for the unwanted pair.

As we left the stage, I caught snippets of the judges' private conversation: "...reminds me of Helen's early work..." "...raw talent, not just connections..."

Nina brushed past me, her shoulder deliberately hitting mine. "Enjoy your little victory, sister," she whispered, her voice honey-coated venom. "It won't last."