The Billionaire’s Secret Quartet

"Keep it up, let's push through together," Zoey encouraged.

Moved by her words, Thalassa nodded vigorously.

After shaking hands, Zoey cautiously glanced towards Lysander before returning to her seat.

As Thalassa was about to sit, Cody announced, "Let's have our champion come up for a speech."

Under Cody's watchful eye, Thalassa reluctantly returned to the stage, took the microphone, and delivered a heartfelt thank-you speech.

Handing the microphone back to Cody, she descended the stage, only to see Rosalind pushing Lysander in his wheelchair, both heading towards the exit.

Lysander had left, showing no interest in the presentation of the design works.

Watching them leave, Thalassa felt a heaviness in her heart. Winning should have been exhilarating, yet the joy was muted without being able to share it with the person she wanted to the most.

No sooner had Thalassa stepped off the stage than a staff member ushered her backstage to register her banking details.This is property © NôvelDrama.Org.

Zoey and Heidi had already completed their registration and were on their way out as Thalassa entered.

While Thalassa was filling out her information, she overheard a conversation.

"Cody, could you possibly allocate design number three to me?" It was Joshua's voice.

"Ha, Mr. Whitman, of course. We were already planning to give the champion designer's work to you," Cody replied with a hearty laugh. Turning around, Thalassa saw Joshua leaning on a cane, while Cody excused himself, mentioning he had other matters to attend to.

Now alone with Joshua, Thalassa straightened up and asked, "Are you one of the sponsors for this event?"

Joshua responded with a smile, "I wish. I found out about the contest too late to sponsor it."

"Then why are you receiving a design?" Thalassa was puzzled, as she thought only sponsors were eligible to receive works.

"Lysander authorized me to receive his portion," Joshua explained. "He mentioned it to Cody before leaving. Cody knows how to handle these situations."

Understanding dawned on Thalassa; Joshua was receiving Lysander's share.

The conversation dwindled, leading to an awkward silence.

With a slight frown, Thalassa said, albeit awkwardly, "Thank you, for standing up for me earlier."

"It's what a father should do," Joshua replied, maintaining a gentle smile.

He sighed, then added, "I know I've wronged you by favoring Rosalind in choosing a partner, but it was for your own good. Thalassa, you're always in my heart, and I hope you can understand that."

Joshua's guilt over preferring Lysander for Rosalind, and thus supporting Thalassa unconditionally, ever at the risk of his own reputation, was evident.

Though Thalassa appreciated his support, his words left her feeling cold. She managed a wry smile and said I understand, and thank you for your help this time."