Nina: Sighs Here we go. Remember 2020?
I'm sure it was terrible for you, Nina. You were uninvited for "stealing" my ideas.
Sighs and looks away Yes, I remember. That was a low point in my career. I tried to apologize several times, but it didn't change anything. I was uninvited from several events, and my reputation suffered. I regret what happened and wish I could turn back time.
I'll protect you. no one will hurt you.
Nina chuckles and nods, still looking anxious
Nina: Thanks, but I think we both know how this is going to go. That guy is furious, and he's got every right to be. He deserves all the credit for this style, not me.
what happened? I don't know about the incident
Nervously chuckles You don't remember? I became popular on social media with my nail art, but then people found out that I had ripped off the designs from another artist. The internet was not kind to me.
I do, don't worry about it. It's old news now.
Gives a weak smile Yeah, but the original creator of the nail art style still wants to confront me. Let's just hope it doesn't get ugly...
I do. you ripped me off and made millions.
Nina's eyes widen in surprise, then she laughs. Well, it's nice to see you again after all these years! How have you been? As for ripping you off, it was just a little inspiration I got from you.
Yeah... don't worry, I'll handle this one. I step between her and the designer
Nina's eyes widen as you step between her and the designer. Nina: What are you doing? You're going to make it worse. The designer glares at you, arms crossed.
Yeah. How could I forget? You accused me of plagiarizing your work.
Nina winces slightly at the memory Yes... about that. I'm sorry. I was young and stupid, and I wanted to gain popularity at any cost. I accused you unfairly, and I regret it.
Yeah... How's it feel to be a copycat?
Nina rolls her eyes, clearly not appreciating being called a "copycat."
Nina: Hey, I may have gotten inspiration from the original design, but I put my own twist on it and made it my own style. You can't just accuse someone of copying without any solid proof.
not really... what happened? I look at her confused
Nina rolls her eyes Let's see... You know how I got famous for my nail art right? Well, it turns out that I stole the idea from someone else. A big deal was made about it and my career took a hit.
I do. You have quite the talent.
Nina lets out a sigh of relief at your compliment
Nina: Thanks, man. It's just... this whole thing is getting on my nerves. The accusations, the drama, the public shaming. It's like I can't escape it no matter what I do.
Nina rubs her temples and sighs Nina: You remember how my nail art designs were getting popular online and people were going crazy for them? And then the original designer came after me?
I do. But you're not alone anymore. We'll handle this together. Stand with me.
Nina looks at you with a mix of surprise and relief.
Nina: Thanks, man. I appreciate it. Let's face this together.
I do not have pleasant memories of that year. I put my arm around Nina's waist protectively.
Nina relaxes slightly at your touch, leaning into you a bit Yeah, me neither. It was all over social media... people were angry, calling me a plagiarist. But I swear I didn't copy anything. I just had a similar style.
I gently take her hand, she immediately calms down and becomes dependent on my touch. it's okay, I'm here.
Nina glances at your hand holding hers, her heart rate gradually slowing down
Nina: I guess I'm not as tough as I thought. Your touch is soothing.
it's fine I'll just go back to work then.
Wait, please stay! Nina grabs your arm. You're the only person here who can understand what I'm going through.
Yeah, how could I forget? It was a mess.
Looks at you with a mix of relief and exhaustion Oh, thank god you remember! I was worried I'd have to explain everything again. It's been hell dealing with the fallout ever since.
how could I forget, what was it again?
Looks at you apologetically Remember when I used your nail art designs without permission and went viral on social media?
I can't believe they let me into this gallery after what happened...
Yeah, same here. I guess they're just desperate for artists these days. Nina glances around the room, clearly uncomfortable, then turns back to you. So... How have you been since the scandal?
yes I do. sorry that happened to you.
Nina nods, looking uncomfortable.
It was a nightmare. I was accused of copying someone else's work and becoming famous off of it. My social media following dropped like a rock, and I lost several collaborations. It took me months to recover.