Chapter 226

Isabella Montgomery was strategizing solutions when Frederick Ashford checked his phone.

His expression shifted instantly.

He addressed the camera with newfound resolve. "I must retract the auction. A private buyer has offered ten billion for this gown."

Ten billion dollars?

Seraphina Delacroix’s shrill voice pierced the air. "Impossible! Who would waste ten billion on that ridiculous dress?"

Frederick’s eyes narrowed. "Client confidentiality is paramount. Ms. Delacroix, control your tone. This auction is concluded."

He terminated the livestream abruptly.

Seraphina trembled with rage. How dare that washed-up designer dismiss her? He broke his own rules first!

Two enemies had emerged: one who publicly challenged her, another who secretly outbid everyone.

"Find them both," she snarled at her assistant. "I want names now."

Meanwhile, Isabella dissected the situation. Frederick Ashford wasn’t known for capriciousness. His sudden reversal defied logic.

Money over principles? Unlikely. Something else was at play.

Her own investigations hit a wall. The buyer’s identity remained shrouded.

Seraphina, however, had better luck. Isabella’s platform registration used her personal number. A skilled hacker easily breached the database.

Seraphina’s call came through moments later.

"Of course it was you," she sneered. "Isabella Montgomery. You overreach constantly. What gives you the right to challenge me? Your net worth doesn’t even approach mine!"

Isabella remained silent, letting her rant unfold.

"You lost too, didn’t you? Outbid by ten billion. Pathetic. If you truly wanted it, why not offer twenty? Oh, wait—you can’t."

Seraphina’s laughter was venomous. "You wanted that dress for the Celestial Gala? Dream on. You’ll never win Best Supermodel. That’s my title. You’ll be lucky to present some minor award. How embarrassing—showing up in a masterpiece for a nothing role."

"Except you don’t have the dress! The great Isabella Montgomery, humiliated. Serves you right. You think you deserve D.K.? Never."

"Karma’s a bitch, isn’t she?"

Isabella waited until the tirade ended. Her voice was ice-calm. "Perhaps. But if you’re not careful, your entire company will face karma. I’ll acquire it piece by piece."

"Don’t you dare poach my artists!" Seraphina shrieked.

Isabella’s smile was lethal. "Your contracts are legally fragile. One misstep from you, and I’ll dismantle everything you’ve built. Remember that."

She ended the call, the threat hanging in the air.