Never Again Yours (Isadora and Magnus) novel Chapter 240

Jonathan stood at the center of the stage, tablet in hand.

“I’ll now announce the final scores. Gemini Collective—91. Seafarer Designs—88. Congratulations to Gemini Collective for winning the commission!”

The Gemini Collective team erupted in cheers, exchanging high-fives and applause.

In stark contrast, the three members of Seafarer Designs fell silent, the mood around them turning heavy.

Rowena heard the verdict with a tangled surge of emotions—frustration, disappointment, and a deep sense of injustice. She’d poured everything into this project and desperately wanted to win. But all she could think of was Abbott, that bastard, threatening her with those compromising photos. She felt cornered, with no way out but to give in.

Guilt gnawed at her as she thought of all Isadora’s tireless work these past weeks.

Wendy, stunned by the announcement, seemed unable to process it; every inch of her bristled with disbelief.

“How could this be? Everyone was clearly impressed by Isadora’s presentation—there must be something fishy going on!”

Isadora remained quiet for a moment, lost in thought. Then she stood and addressed Jonathan. “Mr. Oakley, would you mind publishing the scores from each project director?”

Jonathan’s face tightened; his expression darkened instantly.

“Ms. Vaughan, are you questioning Oakley Construction’s integrity? Suggesting there was foul play? Your little design firm isn’t in a position to make such demands.”

The company’s owner himself was present—Victor Fitzgerald, no less. As the director of Horizon Architects, Jonathan couldn’t bear the thought of being called out for unfair practices, especially not in front of Victor. He was furious—and a little panicked—that this woman might damage their reputation in Victor’s eyes. Who did she think she was? He regretted ever letting Seafarer Designs into the competition in the first place.

Abbott stood up as well, swaggering as he poured fuel on the fire.

People exchanged uneasy glances.

Jonathan blinked rapidly, as if he hadn’t quite understood.

“Mr. Fitzgerald… what are you suggesting?”

Victor looked up, his gaze sharp as a blade as it swept over Jonathan. “Is this your company or mine? Or do you need me to manage it for you? If my employees were as clueless as you, I’d have replaced the lot of you by now.”

Jonathan felt as if a cold draft had swept under his collar. He bowed hastily, nerves showing.

“Of course, Mr. Fitzgerald, you’re absolutely right. Transparency is our guiding principle. I’ll have every director’s score submitted right away.”