Chapter 134
Nellie's jaw nearly hit the floor as she scanned the faces around the table. These weren't just any faces. They belonged to the heirs of various rich families.
Right now, they looked like innocent youngsters, but give it a few years, and they'd be the movers and shakers of the Capital's fashion scene. Chloe? She was destined to be the next big thing on the international supermodel circuit. Nancy? She'd be taking the reins of the Capital's largest jewelry empire. And Jay? A hotshot fashion designer everyone would be clamoring for. Surrounded by these future titans, Nellie could feel her heart race. Her nerves were twisting like a tangled ball of yarn.
Nathan rose to the occasion, introducing Nellie with a gravitas that demanded attention. "Ladies and gentlemen, meet Ms. Nellie, the lead designer at our company and the visionary behind our 'Forever Yours' line. I trust you'll collaborate with her to elevate our luxury brand to the pinnacle of the Capital's market and beyond."
A bold voice cut through the introduction, "Mr. Nathan, I've always admired your acumen, but why are you appointing Mrs. Dawson as your creative director? I've heard she lacks the education and fashion sense necessary for such a crucial role. Can she truly manage it?" Nathan chuckled, unruffled, and turned to Nellie with a soft smile. "Looks like you'll have to show them what you're made of."
Nellie pulled out her laptop, and as it powered up, she smoothly launched into her design philosophy. "I've burned the midnight oil crafting dozens of designs for socialites, homemakers, students, and career pros..."
A voice interrupted, dripping with skepticism, "I prioritize quality over quantity in my designs."
Nellie remained unfazed. She had long grown used to such doubts. Years of character attacks by Cameron and Greta had made skepticism a constant companion.
With her laptop ready, Nellie opened the neatly categorized folders, each a treasure trove of creativity. She started with the socialite collection, and the room collectively gasped. The designs boasted lines that were both soft and striking, colors that whispered sophistication, and styles that married simplicity with a touch of opulence that resonated with everyone. Each detail screamed elegance. "Did you really create these?" someone asked, almost in disbelief.
Nellie glanced up, locking eyes with her critic. She memorized his outfit, then deftly opened a design application, sketching his attire with a level of skill that left no room for doubt. She then set to tweak the details.
With a few expert touches on fabric and buttons, his ensemble transformed, radiating a newfound nobility.
"Wow, that's incredible," came the unanimous praise.
Nathan surveyed the room, "Now, do you see what our creative director can do?"
"Absolutely, we're convinced."
"From now on, address her as Miss Nathalie. She's the only protégé of Jasmine and a key asset to our company. But for now, her identity has to stay under wraps."
"No wonder. She's exceptional!" everyone agreed, thoroughly impressed.
The meeting wrapped up swiftly, hitting all the crucial points.
As Nathan and Nellie exited the venue, they happened to run into Cameron at the mall below.