Chapter 264
Another round of applause erupted from the audience.
“This time, my showcase is called Thorned Roses. Initially, though, my theme was Chrysalis Reborn, with sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds as the main stones. The meaning was simple–rebirth…”
Niamh paused, her gaze sweeping over the crowd.
In the audience, Jonathan lowered his eyes slightly, the word “rebirth” echoing inside him. He couldn’t help but dwell on it. He remembered telling Niamh that after Luminous Divas Fashion Week, he’d be handing her the divorce papers.
As the deadline crept closer, why had she changed the theme so suddenly? Niamh answered as if reading his thoughts. “For that, I have to especially thank Miranda, the editor–in–chief of Shine magazine.”
Miranda, caught off guard by the mention, blinked in surprise.
“It was Miranda’s sharp critique that made me realize Chrysalis Reborn wasn’t all that innovative. Her honest feedback pushed me to do better–and inspired me to change direction.”
The spotlight found Miranda, who beamed with genuine delight. In all her years attending the Jewelry Fashion Week, she’d never smiled quite this brightly.
“And next, I want to thank someone who isn’t even a friend.”
Burton Global Education Group.
On a distant sofa, Michael abruptly sat up straight, the gold rims of his glasses reflecting the screen’s light like twin beacons.
Niamh’s voice came through the live stream, as clear as if she were in the room
with him.
“This person inspired my new theme. He tore a rose off its stem with his bare hands, thorns piercing his skin. Even so, he insisted the rose would still make a worthy gift. That moment made me think of a rose blooming from nothing, surrounded by a sea of green thorns. It also taught me that inspiration for design doesn’t always come from hours of brainstorming–sometimes, it’s sparked by the smallest, most ordinary moments in life.”
As Niamh finished, several designers in the audience chuckled in agreement.
“Of course, I also have to thank my friends, my colleagues, and my investors, who
1/2
14:20
Chapter 264
have always supported me. But above all, the person I am most grateful for…”
She paused, drawing a steady breath.
In the audience, Jonathan realized his heart was pounding. This had nothing to do with him–so why was he on edge, waiting for her next words? Was he hoping–hoping she would say his name?
“Quentin!”
As Niamh called out, the spotlight swung over to illuminate Quentin.
Jonathan’s face fell in an instant.
“My wonderful assistant, Quentin. I could never have pulled off this jewelry showcase without him.”
Niamh led the applause, and the whole room joined in.
Backstage, Marina heard Niamh’s final thank you and, with a crash, knocked her makeup off the dressing table.
Shirley stared at her, her opinion of Marina plummeting. She knew Marina and Niamh were rivals–this year’s Jewelry Fashion Week featured only two new designers, after all. It was normal for Marina to be upset about Niamh’s success, but this reaction was… extreme.
Shirley had seen both of their designs. Niamh’s pieces were worthy of haute couture: impeccable materials, flawless craftsmanship, and a vision all her own. Marina’s, by contrast, looked like something a child might make at summer camp. The gemstones and precious metals were worth a fortune, but her designs somehow made them look cheap. And honestly, using four–leaf clovers as a motif was so overdone–especially with Van Cleef & Arpels already setting the standard. Shirley had been considering comforting Marina, but after seeing her throw a tantrum and smash the makeup provided by the organizers, she decided it was best to keep her distance.
Right now, Marina didn’t care what anyone thought. All she wanted was revenge. She gripped her handbag tighter, remembering the vial of acid she hadn’t yet used inside.
