Page 18 of Darn Knit All

Some people might envision success as sold-out runway shows in Milan or Paris. Some might think of a fashion house in New York or London. My idea of success had always involved Capricorn Cove, the small island town I’ve called home for most of my life.

I loved everything about our close-knit community, nestled in the heart of the Isle of Astipia. The certainty and comfort of my life here, the changing seasons, the familiar faces—I couldn’t imagine ever leaving.

When I pictured my future, I imagined a quiet house in the suburbs with a flower garden and fantastic fire pit. I pictured two-point-five kids and a hamster. I pictured a partner who adored me, and a library and fabric room.

I pictured a quiet, fulfilling life, full of love, laughter, joy, and contentment.

And above all else, certainty.

I raised my head. “I want it. If I win and get the money, I want to buy in.”

They grinned.

“And if I don’t,” I swallowed. “I’ll find the money.”

Somehow.

My finances weren’t exactly in the best shape. The boutique paid well, but our small town had experienced a growth surge in the last few years, bumping up the price of housing. I had a meager savings fund tucked away but that wouldn’t get anywhere close to the kind of money I needed to become a partner in Bloom.

Maeve patted my hand. “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Now, show me the examples Theo sent in to wow the judges.” She made a grabbing motion with her hand.

I flicked through my phone, finding the three designs.

She shuffled closer to Yasmin, tilting the phone her way. Together they ooh-ed and ahh-ed over the designs.

“The drape of the dress,” Yasmin raved, shaking her head. “I want it. It’d be perfect for my maternity shoot.”

“And the bias cut on this skirt? Inspired,” Maeve agreed, flicking between the two. “I love the coat. The shape and colors remind me of akimono.”

I hesitated. “It’s for my dad. He had an award event at his work.”

“It’s gorgeous. You should do more pieces that incorporate your heritage into your designs, they’re stunning.” Maeve handed me back the phone and pushed to a stand, dusting off her legs. “Do you need a hand, momma?” She wiggled her fingers at Yasmin, grinning.

Yasmin’s mouth twisted into a disgruntled smile. “If you insist.”

With exaggerated grunts and groans, Maeve hauled her out of the chair, both of them pausing in the doorway.

“We love you, babe.” Yasmin tapped on the dressing room door. “Whatever you decide.”

They left me alone, closing the door behind them.

With a long, slow sigh, I reached for my phone and read the email again, this time with new, hopeful eyes.

I could do this. I could try, and if I won I could?—

As I read, my hope skittered off the rails, crashing and burning at the side of the road.

You and your partner are expected to arrive no later than 7 September.

Partner? What partner?

I read back over the email, and sure enough, there it was. The twist on this year’s competition—they wanted couples to compete together for the prize.

Let this competition be the start of your legacy together.

“Thank God.”

With a relieved sigh, I texted a screenshot of the email to Theo with the couples’ clause circled in bright red.

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