The design theme remained undisclosed.

Contestants would receive their challenge prompt live on stage.

They had to create original designs using only materials supplied by the production.

Partners would be randomly reassigned for this final round.

Previously, designers had chosen their own models, fostering established teamwork and understanding.

This sudden shift clearly aimed to intensify competition difficulty.

In Mitchell Corp's executive suite, Amanda was furious. "What ridiculous rule is this? Changing partners for the finale?"

Samuel and Sophia appeared equally startled by the announcement.

Amanda continued her tirade. "Samuel, you know Sophia must win this competition. But if I'm not modeling her designs, her victory means nothing! Can't you pressure the producers to reverse this?"

"I already contacted them. They claim the script leaked and changes are impossible now."

"I don't accept that!" Amanda snapped, crossing her arms.

"The decision stands. Besides, you're not the crucial element here—Sophia is," Samuel retorted, turning to his fiancée. "My concern is whether you're prepared for any surprises in this round."

Sophia shared his apprehension, primarily regarding Elise's inexplicable advancement.

Somehow, Elise kept surviving elimination rounds through apparent luck.

Yet she consistently secured enough audience votes to proceed.

Suspicion gnawed at Sophia—was Elise deliberately concealing her abilities?

She shouldn't possess resources to bribe production for such an elaborate scheme, lulling everyone into complacency while she reached the finals.

But if true... Elise had been hiding formidable skills all along.

Sophia suddenly recalled Stellar Group's wildly popular design templates. She knew they weren't her creations, and the design team lacked such talent.

Could Elise truly be the mastermind?

The possibility made Sophia increasingly anxious.

She couldn't allow Elise to defeat her in the final round!

Regret washed over her for not eliminating Elise earlier, deceived into believing she'd naturally fail in subsequent rounds.

The Scotts and Mitchells had successfully pressured production to sabotage Elise before, but live broadcasts complicated manipulation.

Still, she maintained her devoted facade. "Samuel, we can't let Elise win. Her victory would humiliate you and Mitchell Corp. We've invested too much to fail now."

"Wait, shouldn't you feel confident?" Amanda asked, dismissing Elise entirely.

"I believe in my designs, but you know about my sister's connection with William Levine. His slightest assistance could jeopardize our victory," Sophia explained, providing the perfect justification.

Both Samuel and Amanda darkened at the mention.

"How did that woman ensnare William?" Amanda sneered.

"He's merely amusing himself with her. He's engaged," Samuel stated contemptuously.

"Really? To whom?" Amanda asked eagerly.

Nearby, Sophia grew restless.

"It's confirmed, but someone beyond our reach. I won't disclose details," Samuel said. "Knowing you, you'd cause trouble for our family. Still, Sophia's concern is valid—William remains involved with Elise currently, and his minimal intervention could change everything."