CHAPTER 030
AVA’S POV
My jaw dropped, the words taking a moment to sink in. “What?”
“The cameras were broken,” Alex clarified, his voice heavy with frustration. “Someone made sure there’s no record. They went out of their way to destroy those dresses
I leaned against the wall, my head spinning. “Why would someone do this?” I asked, struggling to keep the edge of panic from my voice.
Was this a random act, or was someone targeting me?
Alex’s hand ran through his hair. “That’s what I’m trying to figure out. However, at this moment, we cannot allow it to disrupt the performance. We must remain concentrated. The security team will look into it later.”
I agreed silently, but my stomach felt queasy. Someone had purposely ruined my hard work. It wasn’t only about the dresses – it felt personal.
The models stood in a row, graceful and stylish, with the jewelry shining under the bright lights.
While observing them, a feeling of pride surged through me.
My creations, my designs, were stunning. However, the pride didn’t last long, as it was soon overshadowed by the unease gnawing at my insides.
“Okay, it’s time for the first group to take the stage!” the stage manager announced.
As soon as the first model walked down the runway, the audience erupted in applause.
Her dress sparkled the diamonds on her necklace reflecting the light, shining with each movement.
I let out a slow breath, attempting to dismiss my concerns. The performance was going well, the audience was responding as anticipated.
Yet, my chest still felt tight.
Alex’s gaze never left the runway. “The dresses look incredible,” he said, his admiration evident.
“Thanks,” I replied, my eyes still following the models, each step a reminder of the countless hours I’d spent creating these designs. The late nights, the sacrifices. All of it was for this moment.
“But it’s not just about the dresses, Mr. Grey. This whole launch was meant to highlight the jewelry–the way the gems and fabrics work together. That’s the magic.”
“And it’s working,” Alex said with a grin. “You’ve outdone yourself, Ava.”
His praise should have filled me with pride, but all I could think about was the sabotage. “Someone tried to ruin this,” I muttered under my breath. “And we still don’t know why.”
Alex didn’t answer right away. When he spoke, his tone was firm and confident. “We’ll figure it out. But right now, all eyes are on this show.”
Is
I gave a slight nod, however, the persistent uneasy sensation in my stomach remained.
The audience collectively gasped with admiration at the repaired dress, now adorned with intricate lace detailing.
Even the other dress, adorned with emeralds, that I hurried to fix, appeared stunning.
1/3
CHAPTER 030
+25 BONUS
The emerald necklace she had on shimmered against the material, attracting everyone’s attention towards her. The models received louder applause during their final walk, with the jewelry sparkling in mesmerizing flashes. Towards the conclusion of the show, Alex moved closer and spoke in a hushed tone. “The audience is amazed. Ava, this is sure to be a successful endeavor.”
His words were supposed to provide the solace I was looking for, but they didn’t have the desired effect. I couldn’t stop thinking about the sabotage.
Who was responsible for this? For what reason?
“Breathe, Ava,” Alex said softly, sensing my growing tension. “The hard part’s over. You did it.”
“Did I?” I asked, glancing at him. “It still feels like something’s off. The ripped dresses, the camera…”
He smiled, trying to reassure me. “Stop overthinking it. The designer is thrilled. She even said she’ll mention in her speech. You’ve earned this.”
I nodded, though it felt like I was forcing myself to believe him. A part of me still couldn’t shake the unease.
The after–party was in full swing by the time I made my way through the crowd.
you
Champagne glasses clinked, laughter echoed through the room, but my mind remained far from the celebratory atmosphere.
I exchanged polite smiles and made small talk, but every time my thoughts drifted back to the sabotage, I felt my stomach tighten.
Alex found me near one of the tables. “There you are,” he said with a smile. “Stop worrying. Everyone’s talking about how amazing the show was.”
Before I had a chance to reply, the designer’s voice echoed across the room, capturing everyone’s focus. “I appreciate everyone for being here tonight.”
“Before concluding tonight’s celebration, I need to recognize the amazing team responsible for the dresses.”
“There was an incident relating to some of the model’s dresses earlier, but due to the swift actions of the dress designer, everything was salvaged.”
“She exerted great effort to guarantee the performance occurred smoothly.”
My heart leaped. The designer was talking about me. I was uncertain about what would happen next, but a wave of pride swelled within me.
I looked at Alex, whose unwavering eyes met my own. His hand softly tapped my shoulder, a quiet sign of support.
“You did it, Ava,” he murmured, his tone soft yet brimming with encouragement.
I breathed out slowly, attempting to calm my nerves. The audience’s applause faded into the background.
“Now, I’d like to welcome the designer of these lovely dresses to come up on stage.
I was paralyzed. My heart raced in my chest. That was it. My moment to shine.
“”
However, just as I was about to take a step, a voice sliced through the silence, halting me instantly.
“Hi everyone, I’m the designer of these dresses…”
The words struck me like a slap. My breath caught as I turned my head sharply toward the stage.
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CHAPTER 030
It was Laura.
