,,,,
Aurora's eyes sparkled with admiration as she studied the artwork, her face illuminated under the soft glow of the auditorium's spotlights.
She seemed appreciative of the creativity and skill that went into creating the piece.
Liam, on the other hand, appears intrigued by the same piece of artwork. He leans forward, his eyes scanning the details, and nods thoughtfully.
Meanwhile, Sophia is still trying to stifle her giggles while holding a piece of artwork, but it's clear she is not taking the competition seriously.
Mr Johnson and professor Bryan seemed to be engaged in a heated discussion about one of the other contestants pieces.
After a few moments, Aurora speaks up, her voice filled with admiration, " This piece is exceptional. The use of color and composition is outstanding"
Liam nods in agreement, his eyes scanning the artwork carefully. The composition, the colors, everything comes together perfectly."
After the evaluation, the emcee took the stage to announce the winner...
"And the winner of the Art competition is... Dani Brooks, with her outstanding piece that showcased exceptional creativity and skill".
Ruby's eyes widened in shock, her racing with confusion and disappointment. Why is Dani being announced as the winner. Even though she was happy for Dani, she still felt a bit sad since she gave it her all.
The audience roared with deafening applause, cheering Dani with praises. The Brooks were very pleased with face full of smiles.
On the other hand, Micheal who had come in earlier during the competition was gritting his teeth with his jaw clenched tightly.
Dani smiled smugly, looking pleased with herself, clearly enjoying the praise. She discreetly nodded to the receptionist, who was stationed alongside other staffs at the back of the auditorium.
The emcee to the stage again, holding the exceptional piece that the judges had praised. "Now, let's take a closer look at the winning artwork," he announced.
As the emcee held up the piece, Ruby's eyes widened in shock. That was her artwork! she recognized the colors, the composition and the technique. How did Dani....
With Ruby's mind racing, she felt a mix of emotions; anger, disappointment, and betrayal. She looked at Dani, who was still smiling, and wondered how she could do something so deceitful.
The audience gasped in admiration, taking photos and cheering. Ruby felt like she was in a daze, her eyes fixed on the artwork that was supposed to be hers.
She caught Michael's expression, which had turned dark, his eyes fixed on Ruby with a mixture of anger and warning. Emily and Ethan were staring at her with mocking smiles. As usual Victoria's expression was blank.
She knew she was in trouble.
Ava had been looking at her with concern, her eyes darting between Ruby and Dani.
Ruby's eyes sank as she realized the extent of Dani's deceit, she felt a surge of determination to expose the truth.
As the audience continued celebrating, Sophia made a call from the judges seat to showcase the worst artwork she had been staring that had her sniffling.
The emcee, seemingly unaware of the tension, enthusiastically announced, "And now, let's take a look at the piece that didn't quite make the cut!"
Sophia's eyes sparkled with mischief as she held up the artwork, which happened to be Dani's original submission.
The audience gasped in surprise, and Ruby's eyes widened in shock. The piece was... underwhelming.
It lacked creativity, skill and technique. Ruby couldn't believe that this piece was supposed to be hers.
She knew she had to prove it but how. She locked eyes with Dani who was all smiles.
Dani enjoying the look of frustration on Ruby's face had been thinking there is nothing Ruby can do about it.
Still staring at Dani, her gaze piercing. She took a deep breath, her voice steady. "I think there's been a mistake. That artwork is mine".
The audience's murmurs grew louder, sensing the drama unfolding. Dani's smile faltered, her eyes darting between Ruby and the judges.
"What do you mean Ruby, do you hate me this much to steal my spotlight" Dani quickly countered.
"I don't know how this piece of artwork ends with your name but it's mine". Ruby replied angrily
Her voice laced with innocence. "I don't know what Ruby is talking about," Dani says, feigning confusion.
"I created my artwork from scratch, and I have witnesses who can vouch for my process."
Dani glances at her family, who nodded in agreement.
Aurora's expression turned serious. "Let's investigate this further. We can't ignore the accusations ".
Liam nodded in agreement. "I concur, we need to get to the bottom of this"
The emcee, sensing the tension intervened. "We'll conduct a thorough investigation.
Just then, Michael stepped forward to dismiss the investigation stating that Ruby is not to be trusted.
Aurora's expression turned skeptical. "I'm not sure we can dismiss the contestant claim so easily.
Michael's face reddened as he raised his voice. "Ruby is my daughter, she is the type who tries to get attention. I'm sure she is just jealous of the winner "
Ruby's eyes flashed with anger, but she kept her Cool. "That's not true, Father. I'm just standing up for what's right".
"This piece of artwork is my hardwork "...
Pahhh..
Michael slapped Ruby, while cursing at her face..
You are a disgrace to the Ali's, i know you want to win but lying through your teeth is something i won't tolerate.
Aurora's expression was filled with shock and dismay. "How dare you," she says, her voice firm.
"We won't tolerate any form of violence here"
Liam stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Michael. "We need to focus on the investigation, not resort to physical aggression."
Victoria gaze remained impassive but her eyes narrowed slightly as she stared at Michael, while Emily and Ethan were clearly not interested with what is unfolding at the stage ....
Ava's brow furrowed with worry as she watched Ruby, her eyes darting between her and Dani. She knew that piece of artwork was supposed to be Ruby's but why was it with Dani?
Dani felt troubled about the outcome but she knew she had to stand her ground...
She could not afford the shame, she quickly glanced towards the receptionist seemingly worried.
The receptionist, seemingly nervous, shifted uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact with Dani.
"I demand justice," Ruby said, her voice steady. "My artwork was stolen and i won't let anyone silence me"....