Chapter 446
The crowd gave me a standing ovation.
I smiled and bowed at the judges before turning around. I just so happened to see Penny's shocked face.
She must've never thought that my work would cause such a commotion. She finally realized that she shouldn't look down on me.
The fashion show ended after my model made her last pose, the cameras flashing nonstop.
Confident that I would win, I walked off the stage and waited for the organizer to announce the competition results.
The competition had come to an end, and the works of all the competitors were presented. The judges headed backstage for the final selection of the best work today.
I was on the edge of my seat, waiting as I played with my fingers despite knowing for sure that I would turn out to be the champion.
With my design, I was sure that I'd win!
Not long after that, the host spoke into the microphone, "The winner of the best design is..."
He paused for suspense as he stared at the opened envelope in his hand.
Everyone went quiet. I held my breath. My heart raced, although I was certain that I would win.
"Congratulations to our winner, Evelyn Wiley!" he announced.
The crowd burst into cheers right after he announced the winner. I was calm inside, but Kevin, who was beside me, was so thrilled that he hugged me. So, I could only pretend I was as excited as he was.
Jasper Crane, the president of Chasen, came backstage to see me after that. "Congrats, Ms. Wiley! Your design is one-of-a-kind! Are you interested in joining Chasen?"
I shot him a polite smile. "Thank you, Mr. Crane. I'm honored, but I plan to start my own studio to realize my dreams. I do hope that we can cooperate in the future!"
Jasper looked a little surprised, but he recomposed himself and gave me an understanding smile.
"You have quite the courage and
vision for someone your age," he said. "Starting a business isn't an easy feat, but I believe that with your talent, you'll be able to make your dream come true."
He added, "You can contact me if you ever need help with anything."
With that, he handed me his card. He gave me a meaningful look before turning to leave.
I gripped the card tightly. Why should I dwell in Ethan's shadow?
Perhaps Ethan became so possessive and controlling of me because I was too easygoing before this.
I couldn't put all the blame on him. It was my problem for being too cowardly. But now, I had what it took to start my own business!
When I was interviewed by the reporters about my thoughts after my victory, I made it clear that my mind was set on starting my clothing brand.
"This is just the beginning," I told
them. "My goal is to start my own studio and to come up with designs to emphasize the beauty of our culture and tradition. I want people from all around the world to appreciate the beauty of our
culture!"
V
The crowd applauded the moment I finished giving my speech. The people were impressed by my words and were all looking forward to seeing what I could do in the future.
Their support and compliments
strengthened my resolve to start my
own studio, Later on, I rented a luxury office building and officially founded "Evelyn Studio" using the prize money I received and some money from the investors.novelbin
On opening day, the elites and big shots in the fashion industry all came to my studio. The place was bustling with people.
As the owner of the establishment, I wore a dress I designed myself and accepted the warm wishes of the many people around me as I walked through the crowd.
"Congratulations, Ms. Wiley! You managed to establish your studio so quickly! Your future is as bright as it can be!"
"Evelyn Studio will surely come up with designs that will cause ripples in the fashion world! Ms. Wiley, you are our pride!"
"Ms. Wiley, please give us a shot at a collaboration! It'll be our honor!"
The guests were so supportive and encouraging. All I could do was give them my warmest smile as I greeted them. I was truly proud of what I had achieved.