Chapter 95
White feathered tassels traced the hem and neckline, giving the dress an ethereal quality–exactly the kind of look that suited Mirabelle’s style.
Celestine slipped on a pair of gloves and stepped closer, examining the intricate lining and construction.
“The fabric is delicate and airy, but it doesn’t really breathe. Still, the design pulls it all together nicely,” she said, her fingers trailing over the seams. “On the red carpet, those flashes from the press are going to be blinding. I’d suggest adding a layer of lace tulle at the waist–to keep things decent, just in case.”
She offered her thoughts while Denton’s junior assistant jotted down every word.
Suddenly, Celestine’s hand paused.
The assistant noticed. “Is something wrong, Miss Selwyn?”
From the inner waistband at the back, Celestine carefully pulled out a silver needle–about the length of her finger.
The assistant drew a sharp breath.
That spot was so well hidden, you’d never notice unless you were looking for it. If Mirabelle had put the dress on before they found it… the consequences didn’t bear thinking about.
“There’s also a bent pin holding part of the seam. I can’t touch it or the whole dress will come apart.” Celestine turned to the now pale–faced assistant. “Go get the designers. Now.”
“This is outrageous! We spent a hundred grand on these two gowns, and this is what we get? What the hell are they playing at?” Denton fumed, arms crossed.
“Did you get through to anyone at Zephyrus Atelier?”
Mirabelle had just finished hair and makeup, exhaustion written all over her face. The timing couldn’t have been worse.
Denton clenched his jaw. “Ha! They’re so full of themselves. The second they heard we didn’t have a full video record of the fitting, they just insisted that their boss personally made the gowns and that such a mistake was impossible. Reading between the lines, they’re basically accusing us of trying to get out of paying for the dresses!”
1/2
19 AR
Chapter 95
Mirabelle gave a weary half–smile. “So they’re not owning up.”
Celestine stood beside her, frowning. “When are they sending someone over?”
“Tomorrow at the earliest. Their repairs department doesn’t work weekends, so they’ll ‘try‘ to fix it next week.” Denton’s voice was thick with frustration. “By next week the whole show will be over–this is stonewalling, pure and simple!”
Celestine couldn’t make sense of it.
Zephyrus Atelier had a decent reputation. How could they let something like this slip through and then refuse to take responsibility?
If they cared at all about their clients, the least they could do was send someone to check the gown and see where things went wrong. Even if they couldn’t prove their innocence, a hidden needle could have been deadly–they could have called the police to clear up any misunderstanding.
Instead, they dragged their feet, acting like they were doing everyone a favor.
It didn’t add up. Something felt off.
Mirabelle tried to calm Denton, who looked about ready to explode. “Don’t worry. The owner of Zephyrus Atelier is a friend of Zeke’s. I’ll call Zeke–he can sort out a quick repair, no problem.”
At that, something clicked for Celestine. Zeke’s friend?
A shadow of concern flitted across her face.
Mirabelle dialed, but the call rang and rang–no answer.
Finally, Denton put a gentle hand on hers. “Mirabelle, stop. Look at
Instagram–check the trending page.”
#Breaking: Lance Returns, Designs Exclusive Magnolia Awards Gown for Joanna
#Breaking: Rare Post from Lance-“My Muse and Her Loyal Crew”
Celestine clicked on one of the trending posts. The first thing she saw was Lance’s latest Instagram update: a group photo.
A striking young man stood to Joanna’s left, Zeke to her right, and in the background, a man on the phone–Chester.
Well. The goddess and her devoted fan club, all in one shot.
