4. STOLEN LIGHT

                                        

                                              
The sun rose slowly, casting its golden light through Lily's bedroom window. She groaned and turned over, her body aching from the lack of sleep. The haunting message from the previous night had kept her tossing and turning, unable to calm the storm brewing in her chest.
Her alarm rang sharply, slicing through the quiet. With a sigh, Lily opened her eyes. It felt like she had just fallen asleep, but today was far too important to miss. Her designs were to be showcased in front of the entire design team.
She forced herself up, dragging her tired limbs to the bathroom. After a warm shower, she dressed in her formals and threw on an overcoat for a more composed look. She tied her hair up, hoping her expression didn't betray her fatigue.
In the kitchen, she poured a bowl of cereal and a glass of juice. Her cab was still a few minutes away, so she took the time to scroll through the latest design trends on her phone. It helped distract her, even if only briefly.
Once done, she grabbed her sketchpad, phone, and purse, locking the door behind her. The cab was already waiting at the curb. Without a word, she got in, and the driver silently began the journey to Hayes & Co.
As the city passed by her window, Lily whispered to herself, "Today, I'll be braver."
The cab pulled up to the sleek building of Hayes & Co. She stepped out and thanked the driver, clutching her sketchpad to her chest.
Just as she was walking through the main doors, a familiar voice pierced the morning quiet.
"Looking good. I hope your work is presentable too," Vanessa sneered, sarcasm dripping from her words.
Lily forced a tight-lipped smile in return, but before she could reply, Vanessa smirked again. "Well, all the best, intern." Her tone made it sound like anything but good wishes.
Lily frowned slightly at the cryptic comment, but before she could dwell on it, a more familiar and friendly voice called out to her.
"Don't mind her."
Lily turned to see Aisha walking up, holding two cups of coffee.
"Good morning," Lily greeted, genuinely smiling now.
Aisha returned the smile and handed her a cup. "This is to calm your nerves. You're going to need it."
"Thanks," Lily said, grateful for the small gesture of kindness.
"Vanessa is the team lead of Design Team 2," Aisha explained in a low voice. "She hates anyone who even slightly threatens her spotlight. Just... keep your eyes open."
"I don't want the spotlight," Lily replied with a calm strength. "I just want what I've earned."
There was a new firmness in her tone—quiet, but clear. Lily was tired of being afraid.
They headed to the design room to prepare for the presentation. When it was time, they walked together into the conference room.
Noah was already seated, dressed in a sharp, tailored suit, his presence commanding attention. His dark eyes met Lily's for a brief moment, just long enough for her heart to stutter in her chest. She quickly looked away and focused on her laptop.
The meeting began, and Vanessa stood to present first. As her designs flashed across the large screen, a heavy frown formed on Lily's face.
She recognized them immediately.
They weren't just similar—they were hers.
Lily's heart dropped. Her breathing hitched as she tried to understand what was happening. Those were her designs, the ones she had worked on until late last night, the same ones she had sketched in her sketchbook.