33. IZZY
“Izzy, this is incredible!” Nick’s voice resonated with genuine awe as he surveyed the island’s transformation.
Dan, microphone in hand, added, “You’ve outdone yourself, Izzy. The media’s going to love it!”
I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. “I hope so. Two years! It’s a big night for EcoChic.”
Tanya squealed beside me. “Yes! Happy anniversary, EcoChic!” She was all made up with her tresses in big beach waves, intertwined with dried flowers. She also donned one of my boho collection creations.
Nick’s reassuring hand found my shoulder. “It’s more than that. It’s a celebration of your talent and dedication. I can’t wait to see it all come to life.”
The private island was greatly busy with activity as preparations for EcoChic’s two-year anniversary, and the boho collection launch unfolded. Macramé backdrops hung like elegant tapestries, swaying gently in the island breeze, while vibrant dreamcatchers hung from trees, capturing the essence of the boho theme.
Mismatched lounge areas emerged, blending rustic charm with bohemian flair. Cozy cushions nestled on sandy shores, and low tables showcased artisanal trinkets.
I, in my nervous excitement, flitted from station to station, ensuring every detail mirrored the vision in my mind. Driftwood sculptures embellished with tropical blooms created focal points. And the runway had been nestled amid swaying palms, promising to be a natural extension of the island”s allure.
“So damn beautiful,” Tanya remarked. “I swear, you’re the most creative person I’ve ever met. I’m so proud to have a friend like you.”
“Aww…you’re too kind, Tanya,” I said, grinning. But she was right. So far, this seemed to have been my most elaborate creation—this entire event.
“Come on, Izzy,” she urged, pulling me. “Everything’s all set now. It’s your turn to get glammed up. It’s going to be a night to remember, so you better be ready for it!”
As dusk settled over the island, the decors transformed, catching the last rays of sunlight. Lanterns illuminated the pathways, and I could feel the anticipation thickening the air.
“You look amazing,” Tanya gushed. “Good luck to both of us!” She went off to join the models as the event commenced. A video presentation was shown, and some dancers and singers performed.
My heart, which was dancing to the rhythm of butterflies earlier, had now calmed a bit. I quickly got swept into the festive mood and all the performances.
The evening was unfolding like a dream. It was only then that I noticed Nick’s apparent absence. At first, I’d assumed that he was busy talking to the staff and perhaps organizing some things. But the program was halfway done, and he was nowhere to be found.
I haven’t seen him since I came out again from the dressing area,I realized. Anxiety began to seep into my bones, and I suddenly shuddered as I remembered how he’d left or disappeared many times before when he was feeling confused or troubled.
But he hasn’t done that since he became your boyfriend, a voice in my head reminded me. Just trust him, Izzy. Everything is okay.
I wanted to get up and try to search for him. But then, Dan suddenly spoke again on stage.
“Alright, ladies and gentlemen, buckle up because we’re about to take this celebration to a whole new level! As we mark the fantastic two-year journey of EcoChic, there’s something extraordinary waiting in the wings. Miss Isabelle Turner, or whom we fondly know as Izzy, has poured her heart and soul into a collection that’s not just fashion; it’s a story, a melody, and tonight, you’ll witness the unveiling of the Boho Bliss Collection!”
The crowd erupted in cheers, and the stage lights shifted to illuminate the runway. “So, without further ado, let the magic of Boho Bliss enchant your senses. Models, take your positions, and allow the island breeze to carry the tale of each piece to our eager audience!”
I was immediately enamored when the first few models gracefully stepped onto the runway, bringing my new collection to life under the moonlit sky. The audience gasped and applauded.
I certainly could not go anywhere now. I glanced at the sides for a while and spotted Nick’s assistant Catherine. I tried to gesture, asking where Nick was. But I guess she didn’t understand because she just smiled and waved, then returned her attention to the stage.
My heart beat fast, perhaps from the combination of the excitement and rattled nerves. I couldn’t shake off the feeling that something wasn’t right.
Where is Nick?
I sent him a message on my phone, but there was no reply. Then, I forced myself to simply immerse in the beautiful, memorable moment.
Relax, Izzy, I told myself silently. Just enjoy your own show. Nick’s probably just nearby. Besides, he can’t leave this island all of a sudden.
But I could not be too sure. He was a billionaire, after all. He called all the shots. He even spent a fortune to have these models, the suppliers, the media, and some special guests flown into the island. I had protested about that because I didn’t want to spend too much. But he’d insisted on doing it out of his own pocket. “Consider it my gift for you,” he’d told me.
Sighing, I forced myself to focus on what was happening in front of me. Besides, I could not risk the cameras catching a frown on my face. This was a moment of celebration. I should just ignore the nagging sensation in my stomach, and simply be happy.
Finally, the fashion show concluded. I stood up, intending to call Nick or try to look for him. But then, Dan’s voice boomed through the speakers. “Thank you, thank you!” The crowd applauded. Then he gestured toward me, and I gave him an uncertain smile.
Dan continued. “Now, ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming the creative genius behind EcoChic, the woman of the hour, the one and only Isabelle Turner!”
As I made my way to the stage, the applause grew louder. I couldn’t help but glance around, hoping to spot Nick in the crowd. Dan handed me the microphone, and I took a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts. It caught me off-guard, as I wasn’t scheduled to give a speech yet. Perhaps Dan had gotten carried away, as usual.
“Thank you, Dan, and thank you all for being here tonight,” I began, my voice amplified by the microphone. “Two years ago, we embarked on this incredible journey called EcoChic. But tonight, we are not just celebrating our anniversary but also unveiling a new chapter in our story with the launch of our Boho Collection. Thank you, everyone, for being part of our EcoChic family! Here’s to many more years!”
I glanced at the models who had just showcased my creations, feeling a surge of pride. Tanya grinned at me and gave me a thumbs-up sign. The island breeze gently rustled the curtains behind me as I continued my speech.
“This collection is more than just fashion; it’s yet another statement. It’s about embracing nature, celebrating individuality, and, most importantly, championing sustainability. We’ve come a long way, and none of this would be possible without the incredible team at EcoChic and the unwavering support of our friends, family, and, of course, our loyal customers.”
The crowd erupted in cheers, and I took a moment to soak it all in. But as I scanned the audience, Nick was nowhere to be seen. A subtle pang of disappointment flickered, but I pushed it aside, focusing on the joy of the moment.
“As we move forward, I’m excited for what the future holds. Thank you once again for being a part of our journey. We hope that you’ll continue to support us as we move forward. Enjoy the night, everyone!”
But before I could step down from the stage, Dan, ever the showman, looped a friendly arm around my shoulders, holding me in place.
”Oops. Don’t go yet,” he told me, his mischievous grin hinting at a surprise. Then turning to the audience, he said dramatically into the microphone, “Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your seats because we”ve got a special treat for our EcoChic queen tonight!”
The audience”s excitement peaked as he summoned someone special. “Come on out here, buddy!” Dan exclaimed.
At that moment, the atmosphere crackled with energy, and I turned to see Nick emerging from the backstage. He looked extremely handsome, with his usually neat hair now tousled in the wind, and his blue eyes gleaming with a mysterious glint.
People in the audience jumped up and down. Some clapped, and there were even those who screamed. I was oblivious to them, as well as to the cameras flashing wildly. All I could think about was the relief and joy of seeing Nick approaching me.
He’s here. He didn’t go anywhere.
My heart pounded crazily as his eyes locked with mine. Slowly, he pulled me into a warm embrace as the world around us blurred. “Izzy, I’m sorry I wasn’t there to sit with you in the audience,” he whispered apologetically. “I had to take care of some urgent arrangements with the island management.”
“Oh!” I said in surprise.
“But everything’s good now,” he explained, his eyes twinkling. “And I did hear your speech from backstage. Wonderful…Congratulations!”
“Thank you.” We smiled at each other as Dan launched into a storytelling of how the two of us helped each other establish EcoChic, and how we fell in love along the way.
When Dan handed the microphone to Nick, he stared at me with a serious expression on his face. But there was a small smile playing on his lips. “Izzy, it’s been a hell of a journey, huh?”
I nodded with a laugh. “You bet.”
“But in the end, there’s still you and me…” Then he added, “I hope…” and the audience laughed. “And as I’ve told you, I’m here to stay. Together we’ll grow EcoChic and live life to the fullest.”
For some reason, I suddenly felt edgy. My heart was drumming uncontrollably. What’s he getting at?
“A big congratulations to you and to the entire team of EcoChic Couture,” he went on, moving closer to me, his voice carrying a tenderness that resonated with the beating of my heart. “I had my reservations at first, you know that…but I always knew you had it in you. And you’ve proven yourself to be so much more than I expected. You’ve created not just a brand, but a legacy. I can’t help but imagine the countless wonders the future holds for you and for EcoChic.”
More applause came. I thought it was over. But then, to my amazement, a few models came out of the backstage and began to walk down the runway again, wearing white bodysuits that had huge glittery letters in front.
What the heck is going on! Those aren’t my designs!I screamed in my mind as I watched them position themselves in a horizontal line. Then it hit me as they rearranged themselves and spelled out the words “Marry Me”.
Holy fuck. I almost fainted.
Nick dropped to one knee in front of me as the crowd went wild. Dan held the microphone for him now. “Izzy, you are the heartbeat of my life…” he began, his gaze unwavering. From his pocket, he took out a small red velvet box, and the collective gasp of the audience mingled with the pounding of my heart. Before I could comprehend what was happening, he continued to speak. “Your love has transformed me in ways I never thought possible. Tonight, under the stars and surrounded by the magic you’ve created, I want the world to know that I love you. I love you more than words can express. Will you be mine forever?”
I was so overwhelmed that no words came out of my mouth. Tears began to stream down my face.
“Marry me, Izzy,” Nick said, his eyes never leaving mine.
I felt like my chest was about to explode as I nodded and whispered, “Yes, I will. I love you too, Nick Hale. So, so much.”
He stood up and slipped the beautiful diamond ring into my finger, and then embraced me very sweetly and tightly.
In that magical moment, the night sky burst into a kaleidoscope of colors, fireworks painting an enchanting backdrop for our joy. The crowd cheered even more.
“Oh, my gosh!” I cried out, looking up in astonishment and delight. I was laughing and crying at the same time as Nick and I held each other closely.
Together we watched the spectacular display of fireworks. The air filled with the strains of a romantic melody, and, as if in a dream, Nick lifted me off my feet, sealing our love with a kiss that spoke of promises, dreams, and a lifetime together.
THE END