23. IZZY
“Izzy, this is incredible!” It was Tanya who approached me with a clipboard in hand, her eyes gleaming with excitement. She had on full makeup, ready to strut my designs on the catwalk later. But she was still wearing a white shirt and denim overalls, helping out the staff.
“Why are you working?” I asked in shock. “Just relax in the backstage with the other models. You don’t have to do this.”
“Oh, I’m good!” she declared with a wave of her hand, even rolling her eyes to the ceiling. “I enjoy helping out with events. You know that. And of course, this is a big event for you and your business, so I’m all in!”
I smiled and gave her a quick warm hug. “You’re the best, you know that? But I’m serious! You should rest. Don’t ruin your makeup.”
Tanya laughed. “Well, I think you should also take your own advice.”
I burst out laughing as I realized that she was right. But I’d peeked into the venue after my hair and makeup had been done, just to ensure that everything was perfect.
The morning sunlight spilled into the expansive function room on the top floor of the building, revealing a breathtaking view of the city below. The skyline stretched out like a canvas, bathed in hues of gold and blue. Tables adorned with potted plants and recycled centerpieces were strategically placed, framing the cityscape as a picturesque backdrop.
I stood near the floor-to-ceiling windows, overseeing the final preparations. The eco-friendly décor seamlessly blended with the panoramic view, creating a stylish and classy look.
My staff members were all busy. But someone was missing, which I was trying hard not to think about.
“The press is ready outside,” Tanya told me. “And all the models are present backstage. We’re all set, Izzy. Are you ready? It’s bound to be a success!”
Taking in the breathtaking scene, I nodded. “Absolutely, Tanya. Let”s make this launch an unforgettable one that everyone in the fashion industry will be talking about for months!”
Tanya grinned. But before she left, a look of worry passed her eyes. She leaned closer to me, squeezing my hand. “Are you sure you’re, okay?”
“Of course,” I said. She knew that I’d been trying all week not to think about Nick’s apparent absence in the final preparations.
“Where the hell is he?” Tanya muttered through gritted teeth. “Ohhh, he better come up with a good excuse, or I’m gonna kill him.”
I chuckled, though I could feel the tension growing throughout my body. “Leave it,” I told her. “He’s not worth your energy or mine.”
The truth was that Nick has been sort of absent since that gala at Napa Valley. It had crushed me for days, but I just kept myself busy with the launch preparations and some final touches I needed to do in my designs.
“Oh, wait! I have to go!” Tanya suddenly exclaimed, pointing toward the models who were now moving gracefully on stage, rehearsing their walks.
“Yes, of course. Don’t worry about me.”
Later on, I came out wearing a new gown that wasn’t part of my creations for sale. I had designed it especially for tonight.
“Oh, my God!” I heard someone gasp. It was none other than Desiree Gardner, quickly coming toward me with her eyes wide and her mouth slightly open. “That dress is absolutely stunning! You have to design one for me for the charity ball I’m holding in two months!”
I didn’t know what to say at first. Then finally, as she admired my gown, I found my voice again. “Uh, yes. It would be my honor.”
“Wonderful! And you have to come with that handsome billionaire—Nick Hale! Where is he, by the way? The press has been going insane over your love story! And I personally can’t wait to find out the development.”
I could feel a lump forming in my throat, though I continued to smile as if nothing was amiss. “I believe he’s busy with his other businesses, but he said he’d try to come later.” It was a fib, of course. I had no idea what his plans were because I hadn’t seen or talked to him in days.
Luckily for me, someone called Desiree—an actress who was a friend of hers and a supporter of my clothes. They congratulated me and went on to their seats.
The excitement in the air mingled with a subtle undercurrent of nerves as the launch event unfolded. Models gracefully glided on the catwalk, showcasing the eco-friendly designs that had been meticulously crafted. The media eagerly captured every detail, their cameras flashing like distant stars against the backdrop of the city.
Despite the grandeur of the occasion, my mind kept drifting to Nick. The past weeks had been a whirlwind of media speculation, creating a buzz not only around our fashion business but also around the unspoken tension between us.
Well, at least it got us additional publicity, I thought with mixed emotions.
When the fashion show concluded, and the audience cheered, I couldn’t help but beam with pride and joy.
Focus, Izzy, I told myself silently. This is a dream come true for you. Never mind if he’s not here. At least he helped get you here.
“You’ve truly outdone yourself!” someone said, rubbing my shoulder. I didn’t even see who it was. I was being called to the stage now.
I managed a grateful smile but couldn”t shake off the nagging anticipation of Nick’s presence. The main program was over, and I still had not heard from him.
I stepped into the spotlight, the stage lights enveloping me. I grasped the microphone, sensing the crowd’s eager anticipation.
Taking a deep breath and smiling, I tried to calm down my racing heart. ”Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and all lovers of sustainable fashion thank you for attending this momentous occasion…” I began.
Everyone suddenly cheered, so I paused for a while until they all settled down again. The energy was extremely high in the room.
“Today, we stand on the precipice of a revolution in the world of couture, where beauty meets conscience, and style intertwines with responsibility. Welcome to the grand unveiling of EcoChic Couture’s latest collection, a testament to our commitment to a future where fashion not only captivates the eyes but also nurtures the soul.”
The words naturally tumbled out of my mouth because I had written them myself and practiced delivering them many times. The applause and cheers of the audience fueled my confidence, and for that moment, I managed to push thoughts of Nick to the back of my mind.
I went on and finished my speech without a hitch. But when I heard the host welcome Nick Hale, I froze at the podium. My heart went crazy.
Is this some kind of joke? Am I dreaming?
Confusion flickered through me. I hadn’t expected him to come anymore, much less join me on stage. The spotlight shifted, and to my astonishment, there he was emerging from the curtains, looking like a Greek god walking with a bouquet of flowers in hand.
The audience roared with cheers and applause, cameras flickering like a shower of dazzling fireworks.
“Oh, my gosh!” I heard someone from the audience shout. “He’s so gorgeous!”
“They look amazing together!” another one cried out.
“Nick and Izzy! Nick and Izzy!” A chant began in the crowd as Nick smiled at them and then walked over to me.
I stood there, frozen in the spotlight, as Nick approached with a gentle smile. He handed me the bouquet and a soft kiss brushed against my cheek. The world around me blurred as the crowd’s enthusiasm reached a fever pitch.
The sensation of his lips lingered, and for a moment, time seemed suspended. The room buzzed with excitement, and I fought to maintain a composed exterior, a practiced smile plastered on my face. Inside, however, my heart galloped like a runaway stallion.
This is so not happening.