Page 88 of Darn Knit All

I stepped back just as Mai careened into me, wrapping her arms around my middle and throwing me off balance.

I shot a hand out to steady us, laughing at her enthusiasm. “Whoa, babe. Chill. Anyone might think you’re warm for my form.”

“More than warm,” she said, swiping at her eyes. “Look at our design, Theo. It’s magnificent.”

I had to agree. The dress reminded me of Mai—understated but not in any way simple. Evocative and powerful, imaginative and clever, it captured the eye and held your interest.

A gown fit-for-royalty, just as the brief demanded. And the gloves, with their glint of gold, added an unexpected edge, a twist of avant-garde flair.

“Not bad,” I said, slipping an arm around Mai’s waist. “I think we pulled it off.”

The judges seemed to agree, praising our innovative use of materials and the cohesive overall look. We were ushered backstage to await the final decision, our hands clasped tightly together.

“I couldn’t have done this without you,” Mai whispered, leaning her head on my shoulder.

I knew that was a lie, but I appreciated the sentiment.

I pressed a kiss to her hair. “We make a good team—despite you screeching at me to hurry up.”

She elbowed me in the side, and I chuckled, pulling her back into me.

And then it was time; the judges filed onto the stage, their faces inscrutable. My heart pounded as they began to speak, detailing the strengths and weaknesses of each look.

“And the first team moving on to the grand finale is....” Erike paused dramatically.

Mai’s hand clasped mine tighter, crushing my fingers.

“Jude and Keeley!”

I sagged in my seat, watching as the blonds nodded as if this were their due and not a prize.

They announced Gretchen and Jodie next, leaving only one spot left.

“Mai and Theo,” Minerva began sternly. “This look shows immense creativity and skill. However....”

My heart sank. “However” was never a good word coming from the judges. I squeezed Mai’s hand as we braced for the blow.

It’s okay. I’ll help her achieve her dream some other way. No matter how long it takes, Mai is going to have everything her heart desires.

“However,” Minerva continued, “we feel that you rose to the occasion and delivered a gown fit for royalty. Congratulations, you’re moving on to the grand finale!”

I physically jerked as relief crashed over me like a wave.

“We did it.” Letting out a whoop of joy, I turned and wrapped Mai in a fierce hug, capturing her lips with mine. Laughing, I pulled back. “Holy shit, we?—”

Mai’s hug cut me off. She clung to me like a barnacle, sobbing into my chest.

My mood shifted, turning from joy to warm understanding.

“Baby.” I cupped her head, turning my back on the cameras as she hugged me tight. “It’s okay. We did it. We’re through.”

She lifted her head, her tears wet against her cheeks. “I know. It’s just—” She sniffed, shuddering. “—I wanted this so bad. So bad, Theo. And now—” She shuddered with another sob.

“Happy tears,” I chuckled, swiping at her cheeks. “Happy, happy, happy tears.”

She nodded.

We turned back, thanking the judges and commiserating with Dakila and Nina who were eliminated.

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