Is This What The Golden Fleece Stands For

A smug sense of satisfaction settled over Brooke as she returned to the backstage area. She had done it. She had secured Judge Thompson's vote, ensuring her victory in the competition. Lyse's destroyed dress was just the icing on the cake. She had effectively eliminated her biggest rival, paving the way for her own triumph.

She glanced around, taking in the nervous energy of the other contestants. They were all so focused on their own presentations, so oblivious to the machinations happening behind the scenes. Brooke felt a surge of power. She had manipulated them all, played them like pawns in her game and she was going to be crowned the queen before their envying eyes.

She noticed that Lyse was still nowhere to be seen. The director was becoming impatient, glancing at his watch. He was about to call the next contestant when Lyse finally appeared, rushing into the backstage area, her face flushed but composed.