Page 59 of Darn Knit All

There were audible gasps as the next model stepped out. I glanced up, blinking in awe at their creation.

The talented duo had created a statement piece using crimson satin. It was a play on a tuxedo with a long ballgown skirt and a crisp short tuxedo vest top. The layering, the lines, the color—everything worked perfectly together to produce a showstopping dress.

“Damn,” Theo said against my ear. “Correct me if I’m wrong, but that’s a good design, right?”

I nodded mutely, my hopes crashing to the ground. It appeared the crew were correct in their assessment—Keeley and Jude were the team to beat.

The judges gushed over the design, agreeing that they had found their winner.

I applauded along with the other cast members as Keeley and Jude nodded, their expressions remote.

Damn. I really wanted to beat them.

“And now for our final surprise,” Michelle said brightly into the camera.

I barely supressed a groan, slumping into Theo as the last of my energy drained from my body.

“You may be wondering why we were so specific with the challenge—and it’s for a good reason.” She turned toward the side of the stage. “Please welcome Beatrix Bellinger to the stage.”

I shot up in my seat, my mouth dropping open as the woman herself walked out of the stage wings. Dressed in a costume from her latest movie, she glided across the stage, smiling a warm greeting.

“Welcome, Bea,” Michelle greeted.

“Thank you so much,” the actress responded, giving us a little wave.

“We like to keep our contestants on their toes, so why don’t you tell us why you’re here.”

“I’d be delighted.” She turned to the camera. “While the judges have picked their winner, I get to choose the dress I’d most like to wear to the Oscars.” She chuckled. “As a nominee for Best Actress this year, I can assure you, your design will be seen by millions around the world.”

My hands found Theo’s, clutching him hard as my heart began to pound out of my chest.

“And I choose….”

CHAPTER 8

THEO

Mai

At what point do you decide to end a relationship?

Theo

Depends—is it an unsafe relationship? If so, now. If it’s okay but not working for you anymore, then let it fade. If it’s important to you, then fight for it

Mai

I hate that you’re right

Theo

I always am. Unless you’re talking about us in this scenario then the correct answer is never. I am legion

Mai

Thank God you’re humble or you’d truly be unbearable

“Ican’t believe it,” Mai repeated for the hundredth time as the elevator slowly ascended to our floor. “I cannot believe it.”

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