13. IZZY
Suddenly, I’d gone from being a nobody fashion designer with a big dream to being a fashion icon-slash-successful entrepreneur within a couple of weeks!
As I waltzed toward the entrance of the hotel while on Dan Hale’s arm, cameras flashed all around me. The dazzling lights of the San Francisco Fashion Gala painted the night in hues of glamour and opulence.
Clad in a stunning gown that flowed like a waterfall of emerald silk, I moved through the crowd with a huge smile on my face. It felt like I was in a dream.
Members of the press bombarded me with questions.
“The color of your gown is captivating. Can you tell us if it has any special significance, or is part of your sustainable fashion ethos?”
That particular question caught my attention because I was damn proud of this creation that I’d designed especially for this evening—my very first appearance at the prestigious San Francisco Fashion Gala, an annual event that was graced by the who’s who of the fashion industry in the country.
“Thank you so much for noticing!” I replied happily. “The emerald green of my gown came from natural, plant-based dyes to achieve the stunning color. It symbolizes not only the vibrancy of nature but also our commitment to eco-friendly practices. In fact, every shade, every thread in this gown tells a story of environmental consciousness and a deep respect for our planet.”
My response garnered a round of applause. I was quite surprised and very flattered. Beside me, Dan grinned and answered several questions directed toward him.
We kept on moving forward. But then, another question made me stop. “Miss Izzy, what’s going on between you and Mr. Dan Hale? Are you a couple now?”
I actually had not anticipated that. But I should have. My breath caught in my throat, but Dan was the one who responded smoothly for both of us.
“Well, you know, Izzy and I share a passion for pushing boundaries. We’re both adventurous spirits, and when creativity sparks, it can sometimes lead to unexpected connections. As for romance, who knows what might blossom when two passionate souls collaborate?” He then winked playfully, leaving the audience intrigued.
Dan sure knew how to play them, and how to create intrigue to keep us in the limelight. But I was panicking deep inside. I wanted to get away from the press and all the fuss and attention.
Finally, we reached the ballroom where the gala was happening. The grandeur of the venue left me breathless—a symphony of twinkling lights, cascading flowers, and the hum of anticipatory whispers.
“Wow,” I whispered. “This is magical.”
“I know, right?” Dan agreed with a grin. “Come on, Izzy. Let’s show them who the real stars are.”
He pulled me with him as he basked in the attention. We were natural head turners for some reason and seemed to be attracting even the big guns of the fashion industry.
Meanwhile, I was mesmerized at the runway that stretched like a glittering path, leading to a stage that was equally impressive and exquisite. I could imagine models wearing my EcoChic Couture designs and blowing away the audience.
“Don’t worry, Izzy,” Dan whispered to me. “Soon, EcoChic will be one of the featured brands in this event. Perhaps next year. Who knows?”
I smiled at him, thankful for his words. So far, he’d been the perfect date and was certainly fun to be with. However, I couldn’t help feeling that something was missing. There was no spark between us, no intimate connection like the one I had with Nick every time we were as much as in the same room.
And speaking of the devil…
Nick appeared out of nowhere, his mysterious aura seemingly reaching out to me and enfolding me. As always, even with his steely eyes and forbidding demeanor, he had a commanding presence that made people pay attention.
My heart leaped unexpectedly. Fuck. Why does he still have this effect on me?
“And my brother decides to show up,” Dan murmured with fascination. “He was contemplating it a few days ago, and I thought he wouldn’t bother. But I guess Sonya convinced him.”
At the mention of that woman, I looked closely and saw a vivacious redhead slinking up to him. She linked her arms with him, and he appeared to stiffen. I saw her slip her fingers into his jacket, which pissed me off. I forced myself to look away before they could see me staring.
“Come on, Izzy. The show is starting.”
I followed Dan to the front row where we had reserved seating especially for us.
A hush fell over the crowd as the lights dimmed, signaling the commencement of the runway show. Models, draped in creations from renowned designers, glided effortlessly, their every step a dance choreographed by the pulsating rhythm of the music. It was a sensory overload, a first-time experience for me that transcended the boundaries of imagination. At that moment, I forgot about my concerns temporarily, and I just immersed myself in the experience.
As the fashion show concluded, the venue underwent a metamorphosis, transitioning seamlessly into an after-party spectacle. The once meticulously arranged runway transformed into a pulsating dance floor bathed in neon lights. The air buzzed with excitement as attendees mingled once again, and the beat of music echoed through the electrifying atmosphere.
Suddenly, Dan was caught up in shooting more footage for his vlog and interviewing celebrities along the way.
“Excuse me. I just want some fresh air for a while. I’ll be back.”
I wasn’t sure if he’d heard me, but he simply nodded and kept on shooting his videos.
The balcony offered a temporary escape from the vibrant chaos. As I stepped out, anticipating a breath of fresh air, the scene before me struck like a sudden storm. There, entwined in an intimate embrace, were Nick and Sonya, their lips locked in a kiss. Shock held me in its grip, freezing the air in my lungs as I witnessed a sight I never expected.