Chapter: 29

After dividing the funds with Three Drops, Kaitlin funneled her portion into the nascent jewelry brand she was creating with Phoebe.

Phoebe, however, felt uneasy about Kaitlin's aggressive investment and dedication.

"Kaitlin, I can't go in as an equal partner. Let's do an 20-80 split. I'd be more comfortable that way."

Kaitlin had foreseen Phoebe's hesitance but deeply valued her managerial and promotional talents.

It was Phoebe's initial gesture of goodwill that Kaitlin had been where she was.

"Phoebe, we're in this together. You're invaluable. I've got the funds now, so I'm putting more in. It'll benefit us both," Kaitlin assured her.

Determined, Kaitlin inked the partnership agreement, affirming her commitment.

“You bring so many strengths to the table. Except for designs, you can help me with everything.”

Phoebe was touched by Kaitlin's words. "Kaitlin, don't worry. We'll remain best friends, and no amount of money will ever change that."

With a tearful smile, Phoebe signed her name decisively.

Together, they named their jewelry brand Oasis Jewelry, a tribute to their collective aspirations and successes.

The Oasis Studio compiled and passed on their unreleased designs to Kaitlin and Phoebe for final touches as they geared up for Oasis Jewelry's inaugural showcase.

This debut was set to make a splash in the art community.

Phoebe sent out thousands of invites, promising an unforgettable event.

Meanwhile, Kaitlin leveraged Twitter to promote the launch, and with Three Drops' support, the buzz around the event grew exponentially.

In a brief span, Oasis Jewelry's reputation soared dramatically.

Lilliana, who was watching the latest news, seethed with anger.

In no time at all, her acclaim as a genius designer had faded into obscurity.

The Internet buzzed with stories of Kay, drawing constant comparisons between the two.

“People say Lilliana Willis is just a trendy little designer. She's no match for Kay. Anyone with eyes can see that Kay is the true genius!"

“Comparing Lilliana Jewelry to Oasis Jewelry? That's ridiculous!"

"“Lilliana Jewelry, trying to piggyback on success? Have people forgotten the plagiarism scandal? It's clear that Lilliana's designs are inferior to Nora's."

"Absolutely! Lilliana's work doesn't stack up against Nora's, much less Kay's."

Lilliana scrolled through the comments, each more disparaging than the last.