Chapter 71
Why had her work not only been accepted like normal, but also–unbelievably–featured as the top pick?
Carmen, flustered and indignant, blurted out, “There’s got to be a mistake! Seabay must’ve messed up! There’s no way they’d take one of Celestine’s designs! They probably haven’t checked the news yet, right? That’s it–they haven’t seen last night’s headlines. Just wait, once they catch on, they’ll pull everything off Instagram. Wouldn’t be the first time they’ve done something like that!”
Flossie gave her a look that could only be described as ‘are you for real?‘ and muttered, “Seabay’s final approvals usually take a month before they even start promoting. Celly’s collection got the official announcement in less than three days. Guess why?”
Carmen didn’t want to guess.
Flossie went on, “Also, Carmen, maybe it’s a generational thing, but do you just not get online? Seabay’s official socials are always the first to chase the latest trends–they’ve even made the trending topics before.”
She shoved her phone in Carmen’s face for emphasis.
By now, Seabay Official had already posted ten consecutive announcements about Celestine’s collection.
Every single piece was praised to the skies.
It was as if the online rumors didn’t even exist.
Carmen’s chest heaved; she was so upset she couldn’t contain herself. She stormed out, slamming the door behind her.
Flossie stuck her tongue out at Carmen’s retreating back: “Gossip queen–go eat dirt!”
Then, turning to a still–dazed Celestine, Flossie’s eyes shone with admiration. “Celly, you are seriously my hero! No one else has ever had Seabay go to bat for them like this. I’m in awe!”
Celestine couldn’t make sense of Seabay’s move.
Was it just because her work was good enough?
Hardly.
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14.00
Chapter 71
The industry was overflowing with talented designers.
She’d only just made her comeback, and her new pieces lacked even a tenth of the spark she’d once had.
If it was about loyalty, that didn’t add up either–Seabay had once cut ties with a designer who’d been with them eight years after a DUI, and they hadn’t hesitated for
a second.
She was at a loss.
Meanwhile, the conversation online had shifted dramatically thanks to Seabay’s official posts.
[Sue]: Wow, this new collection is gorgeous and so unique! The designer’s name sounds familiar–has she worked with Seabay before?
[Bland Mushroom]: Wait, isn’t this Celestine that woman who’s been plastered all over the gossip sites for supposedly wrecking Joanna’s relationship? Seabay, what are you thinking?
[Long–Awaited Girl]: Everyone knows Seabay would never work with a designer mired in scandal. For them to post ten announcements in a row–it feels like they’re standing up for her.
[Beauty Lover]: Whatever else is going on, these pieces are stunning! The internet loves to chase rumors–there’s probably more to this story than meets the eye.
[Spectator]: I’m just here for the drama, but yesterday’s tos were barely evidence at all. Joanna’s fans are acting rabid–it’s honestly terrifying.
[Don’t Go]: I heard Joanna’s still negotiating a sponsorship with Seabay. This could
get interesting.
[Joanna’s baby]: Seabay?? My girl loves your brand, and now you’re working with *her*? Betrayal!
As the comment section devolved into chaos, Celestine received a call from Seabay’s director.
“Miss Selwyn, our CEO is genuinely impressed with your work. He’d like to feature you in an exclusive interview for our artist spotlight series. Would you be able to visit Seabay in person?”
Crystal Lennox relayed the message to Celestine, who was still lost in thought.
Only the industry’s most respected designers ever made it onto Seabay’s solo spotlight page.
2:3
14:06
Chapter 71
Celestine was even more baffled.
She finally asked the question directly: “Aren’t you worried about my current situation damaging your brand’s reputation?”
There was a brief silence on the line.
“Some people might say the truth will come out in the end, that time will clear everything up.”
The director smiled. “But, Miss Selwyn, you’re someone Seabay stands behind–no matter what. We’re with you, always.”
