Chapter 342: The Arcturus Runway
Emily had been to the Arcturus Runway before, but back then, she was representing Seraphim as one of their designers. Now she had her own brand—she'd be representing Mirage Fashion and all of Thalassia.
Carol watched her excitement with encouraging eyes: "I've seen your recent design portfolios, and they're incredibly creative and distinctive. Go show the world what Thalassian designers can do, and use this opportunity to officially launch Mirage Fashion on the international stage!"
Emily's heart pounded wildly, the overwhelming joy leaving her momentarily speechless. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing emotions, and bowed deeply to Carol: "Mrs. Rose, thank you so much! Thank you for giving me this opportunity! I promise I won't disappoint you!"
Carol nodded with satisfaction: "Good girl, I have complete faith in your abilities. Go for it—Glamour Gem Group will be your strongest supporter."
The celebration was still buzzing with activity when Emily returned to the crowded showroom, practically glowing with excitement and anticipation. She made her way through the crowd, pausing frequently to listen to guests discussing the new collection. The praise was overwhelming, boosting her confidence even further for the upcoming Arcturus show.
As she approached a display featuring this season's signature evening gowns, she heard a heated argument.
"I saw the 'Starburst' first! I already had my assistant put it on hold!" The speaker was a young woman in a sequined dress with flawless makeup, her manicured finger pointing at a deep blue evening gown encrusted with tiny crystals that sparkled like a starry night. Her tone carried the unmistakable authority of someone accustomed to getting her way.
She was Elizabeth Taylor, a well-known local socialite.
"That doesn't matter," came another cool voice as a woman in an impeccably tailored white suit stepped forward, fixing Elizabeth with a sharp gaze. "I already asked the sales associate to wrap it for me. This dress is perfect for the charity gala I'm going to—it's more suitable for me."
This was Violet Cooper, daughter of a prominent investor known for her discerning taste and generous spending.
The assistants and sales staff nearby looked uncomfortable, standing helplessly to the side. Elizabeth crossed her arms and lifted her chin: "Violet, isn't it first-come, first-served? You can't just throw your weight around because of who your father is."
Violet laughed coldly: "The only thing that matters is who can actually pull it off. This 'Starburst' would obviously complement my style better. Unlike some people who think more is always better."
As their argument escalated, a crowd began gathering to watch, pointing and whispering among themselves.
Seeing the situation spiraling, Emily immediately walked over with a warm smile: "Good afternoon, ladies. I'm Emily, Mirage Fashion's Executive Director."
Both Elizabeth and Violet looked surprised to see Emily, their argument pausing, though their mutual antagonism remained obvious.
Elizabeth spoke first, her tone slightly more measured: "Ms. Johnson, perfect timing. I was the first to notice this 'Starburst' gown."
Violet wasn't backing down: "Ms. Johnson, I've already decided to purchase it."
Emily's gaze moved between the two women before settling on the stunning 'Starburst,' maintaining her gracious smile throughout: "I completely understand both of your attraction to 'Starburst'—it's truly one of this season's pieces that I'm most passionate about personally. Its inspiration comes from the night sky's constellation of stars, symbolizing hope and eternity."
She paused, looking at Elizabeth: "Ms. Taylor, your energy and vivacity would complement 'Starburst ''s brilliant qualities beautifully."
Then she turned to Violet: "And Ms. Cooper, your elegance and sophistication would give 'Starburst' a serene yet noble radiance."
Her words struck the perfect balance, acknowledging both women's strengths while subtly addressing their compatibility with the dress.
Both Elizabeth and Violet looked more pleased, though they maintained their positions.
Emily smiled gently and continued: "As this season's signature piece, we originally planned to create only one haute couture version—the one you both see here." Her words made both women tense.
"However," Emily's tone shifted, a hint of playful wisdom in her eyes, "given how genuinely both of you appreciate it, I have a proposal. I'd be honored to create an additional 'Starburst' for each of you. Of course, to ensure each piece remains unique, I would adjust the details according to your individual styles and figures. For instance, Ms. Taylor, I could add more dynamic flowing elements to the skirt to showcase your vivacity, while for Ms. Cooper, I could incorporate exquisite lace edging at the neckline and cuffs to highlight your elegance. This way, both gowns would share the same inspiration yet possess their own distinct character—each a one-of-a-kind 'Starburst.'"
She paused, looking sincerely at both women: "Of course, this would require some additional time—about a week longer than our standard custom process. Would you allow me the honor, and give 'Starburst' the opportunity to shine uniquely for each of you?"
Elizabeth and Violet exchanged glances, both looking surprised and interested. Emily's proposal not only resolved their dispute but satisfied their desire for exclusivity while making them feel respected and specially treated.
"You'd customize the details specifically for me?" Elizabeth asked, clearly tempted.
"And guarantee it would be one-of-a-kind?" Violet inquired.
Emily nodded confidently: "Absolutely. I'll personally oversee the work to ensure every detail perfectly captures each of your individual charms."
Elizabeth was the first to smile, giving Violet a slightly superior look: "Well, since Ms. Johnson is being so accommodating, I'll accept her gracious offer. But mine needs to be finished first!"
Violet also relaxed, a small smile playing at her lips: "Agreed. But I want to personally discuss and confirm my design details with Ms. Johnson."
"Absolutely no problem."
Emily readily agreed, then gestured for a sales associate to approach: "Ladies, please follow my assistant to our VIP lounge, where we can go over all the custom details and get your measurements for both of you."
Carol watched the whole thing from the private lounge windows in the showroom, approval showing in her eyes.
Scarlett's daughter had incredible design talent, but also the skills to handle tricky situations like this with remarkable grace. She'd protected the brand, smoothly handled the conflict, and turned a potential disaster into new business—all with a wisdom and composure that far exceeded her years.