Chapter 3: The Sound of Applause

There was still so much work to do. But at least, for now, one thing was right.

She gripped a pencil and scribbled last-minute ideas in her notebook. She could hear faint noises as people were coming up and down the stairs, and everyone seemed busy preparing for the upcoming fashion show. After a while she sighed, rubbing her temples.

"Tomorrow is the big day."

Her eyes turned to the mannequin beside her, dressed in one of her finest creations. A stunning white gown with beautiful decorations shined under the soft glow of the light. She stood, walking around the dress like a predator analyzing its prey.

"Is it perfect? Will they see the beauty I see?"

Her stomach twisted. She ran a hand through her hair, staring at the dress like it held all the answers.

"What if they don’t like it? What if they say I’m not good enough?"

Her heart pounded, and she shook her head, pushing those thoughts away.

"I have worked too hard for doubt now. I have to believe in myself."

She straightened her posture, taking in a deep breath. Her hands smoothed over the fabric one last time before she stepped back, exhaling slowly.

"This is it. No turning back."

Meanwhile, across town, Russell Thompson and Fernando Santos were having lunch at 'Rus Meals,' Russell’s restaurant. The delicious smell of freshly cooked food was in the air. As they ate, Fernando leaned back in his chair with a satisfied smile.

"Russ, this place is the best. Every time I eat here, it's perfect. You've really built something special," Fernando said.

Russell smiled, cutting into his steak. "Thanks, Fernando. It wasn’t easy, but hearing that makes it worth it."

After a few moments of comfortable silence, Fernando spoke again. "My jewelry shop's doing well too. Business is steady, and people love what I’m selling."

"That's great," Russell replied. "My restaurant did well last week too, but you never know in this business."

He took a sip of wine and added, "I’m lucky to have Mrs. Allison working here. She runs everything smoothly when I can’t be around."

Fernando chuckled. "I’m a bit of a control freak. I like handling everything myself."

Russell smiled. "I used to feel the same way, but with Mrs. Allison, I can relax."

As they finished their lunch, Fernando asked, "Are you free tomorrow? We could catch up again."

Russell shook his head. "I’d love to, but I’m going to a fashion show at Flora Gardens. I’m thinking of hosting similar events at the restaurant here."

Fernando nodded. "Sounds fun, but I’ve already got plans to see a movie."

They stood up, shook hands, and headed to their cars. "Take care, Russ," Fernando said.

"You too, Fernando."

The next morning, Flora Gardens was alive with activity as preparations for the fashion show were underway. The open space was filled with beautiful flowers, neatly arranged along the walkways. Colorful tents and rows of chairs were set up in front of the runway, awaiting the audience. It was a bright and beautiful day.

Russell arrived, looking sharp in a tailored black suit. As he approached the seating area, an usher greeted him. "Welcome, Mr. Thompson. Your seat is right here, in the executive section."

"Thank you," Russell replied with a smile, taking his seat. He looked around, taking in the atmosphere. The crowd was filled with excitement as they waited for the show to begin. As he scanned the area, his eyes landed on a beautiful woman walking stylishly toward the backstage area. She was tall, with long dark hair, and wore a deep-red dress that shined in the sunlight. It was Sylvania Scarlet.

Russell couldn’t take his eyes off her as she moved through the crowd, exchanging greetings with designers and models. Just before she proceeded, she briefly caught Russell’s eyes, making his heart skip a beat. She quickly looked away, pretending to notice something else.

At that moment, Sylvania smiled when her friend Vivian handed her a glass of wine. "You look amazing, Sylvania. I can’t believe you made that dress."

"Thanks, I wanted to create something special for today," Sylvania replied, feeling proud.

"You already stole the show," Vivian said, her eyes twinkling. "And look over there," she added, nodding toward the audience. "That guy can’t stop looking at you."

Curious, Sylvania followed her friend’s gaze and saw Russell. "Who is he?" she asked, feeling a flutter in her chest.

"That’s Russell Thompson, the owner of this place, and the popular Rus Meals restaurant. He seems very interested in you," Vivian said with a smile.

Sylvania blushed slightly. "Oh, really...he’s cute," she admitted.

As the runway lights dimmed and the music began, the crowd fell silent. The Master of Ceremony, Calisto Salem, welcomed everyone with a big smile.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Flora Gardens for an incredible day of fashion! Today, we’re celebrating creativity, style, and artistry, brought to life by some of the best designers in the business!"

The audience cheered as the first model took the stage, showcasing a collection by Milla Anderson, known for her eco-friendly designs. Each outfit received applause, and Sylvania admired the creativity.

"I love how the fabric moves," Sylvania whispered to Vivian. "The designs are so bold yet stylish."

Vivian nodded. "Milla always has such a unique style."

After a few more collections, the Master of Ceremony returned to the stage. "Now, it’s time for the much-anticipated collection by Sylvania Scarlet!"

The crowd buzzed with excitement as the first model stepped onto the runway, showcasing Sylvania’s stunning designs. As each outfit was revealed, applause erupted across the venue. The collection was a mix of style and innovation, and the audience loved it.

Backstage, Sylvania gripped the curtain, her fingers trembling. Her heart pounded against her ribs as she peeked through the small gap. The runway lights bathed the final model as she took her last step.

The crowd erupted, their cheers crashing over Sylvania like a wave. Hands clapped together, voices shouted her name, and some even rose to their feet, applauding wildly.

Sylvania pressed a hand to her mouth, her chest tightening. Tears welled up in her eyes, blurring the dazzling stage before her. A shaky breath escaped her lips, half a laugh, half a sob.

"They love it… They really love it."

Her vision cleared just in time to see the final model take a majestic bow. The applause grew even louder, the sound vibrating through the walls.

Sylvania let out a breath she didn’t realize she had been holding. Relief flooded her body, melting away the weeks of sleepless nights, the endless hours of stitching, cutting, and doubting.

She wiped a tear from her cheek, a bright, proud smile breaking across her face.

"I did it."

At the end of the show, Calisto returned to the stage with a card in his hand. "Now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the announcement of this year’s Best Fashion Designer award!" he said.

Sylvania’s palms grew sweaty, and her breath caught in her throat. She closed her eyes, sending up a silent prayer.

The audience held their breath as Calisto read the name. "The winner is… Sylvania Scarlet!"

The crowd cheered wildly as Sylvania made her way to the stage. Milla Anderson handed her the award, a beautiful gold medal shaped like a fashion scissor.

"Sylvania, your designs have inspired us all. Congratulations!" Milla said warmly.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

With tears in her eyes, Sylvania accepted the medal and took the microphone. "Thank you, everyone. This award isn’t just for me; it’s for my amazing team and everyone who has supported me. I want to thank my fellow designers and my fans for believing in me. Fashion isn’t just about clothes. It’s about telling stories and showing who we are. To all the young designers out there, keep dreaming and never be afraid to be different."

The audience erupted into applause once again as Sylvania stepped off the stage, greeted by her team, who hugged her tightly. It was a moment she would never forget, a moment that marked her as one of the top fashion designers in the world.

"We did it again!" Vivian cheered, pulling Sylvania into a hug. "There’s going to be a party tomorrow for sure!"

"Thank you, Vivian," Sylvania said, her heart full. "I couldn’t have done this without all of you."

As the celebration buzzed around them, Russell Thompson approached Sylvania with a smile on his face. Vivian, noticing his arrival, excused herself, leaving Sylvania alone with him.

"Congratulations, Sylvania. You were amazing tonight," Russell said kindly.

Sylvania smiled, letting out a small laugh. "Thank you, Russell. That really means a lot."

Russell looked into her eyes, wanting to hold her attention. "I know we’ve already seen each other tonight, but I don’t think we’ve been properly introduced."

She nodded and extended her hand. "I’m Sylvania Scarlet. Nice to meet you."

"Russell Thompson," he replied, shaking her hand with a firm but gentle grip. "You’re a fashion designer, right?"

"Yes, I am," Sylvania said with a touch of pride in her voice. "Though honestly, I never thought I’d be doing this. My mother always told me to follow my heart."

"Well, she was right," Russell said, his smile widening. "You’re really good at what you do."

"Thank you. I appreciate that." Sylvania paused for a moment, then asked, "Do you really own this place?"

Russell nodded. "Yes, I do. I run a few businesses, but this garden is something special to me."

"I’ve heard of your restaurant, Rus Meals," Sylvania said, her voice full of interest. "I’ve been there a few times, it’s a lovely spot."

"Really? I’m glad to hear that," Russell said, clearly pleased. "We work hard to keep it welcoming."

Sylvania smiled, then asked, "Why did you name the garden Flora Gardens?"

Russell’s eyes softened. "I always wanted to name my daughter Flora," he said quietly. "If I ever have one."

Sylvania raised an eyebrow, surprised. "So… you’re not married?"

Russell chuckled softly. "No, not yet. But who knows? Maybe I’ll meet someone soon." His eyes were on Sylvania as he said this, but his tone remained light, not pushing too hard.

Sylvania blushed slightly but laughed, feeling more at ease. "Well, I think you’ll find someone when the time is right."

Russell grinned. "Maybe. But meeting you has definitely been the best part of my day."

Sylvania smiled back, feeling a gentle flutter in her chest. "You’re very charming, Russell."

"And you’re very easy to talk to, Sylvania. I hope this is just the beginning of our conversations," Russell replied with a smile.