Chapter 1719


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


    Moved by her words, Thssa nodded vigorously.


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


    As Thssa was about to sit, Cody announced, "Let''s have our champione up for a speech."


    Under Cody''s watchful eye, Thssa 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, Thssa felt a heaviness in her heart. Winning should have been exhrating, yet the joy was muted without being able to share it with the person she wanted to the most.


    No sooner had Thssa stepped off the stage than a staff member ushered her backstage to register her banking details.


    Zoey and Heidi had alreadypleted their registration and were on their way out as Thssa entered.


    While Thssa 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 nning to give the champion designer''s work to you," Cody replied with a heartyugh. Turning around, Thssa saw Joshua leaning on a cane, while Cody excused himself, mentioning he had other matters to attend to.


    Now alone with Joshua, Thssa 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 toote to sponsor it."


    "Then why are you receiving a design?" Thssa was puzzled, as she thought only sponsors were eligible to receive works.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


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


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


    The conversation dwindled, leading to an awkward silence.


    With a slight frown, Thssa 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. Thssa, you''re always in my heart, and I hope you can understand that."


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


    Though Thssa 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."