Page 94 of Darn Knit All

We returned to our station, and Mai’s hands flew over the machine, a flurry of movement that seemed superhuman. I assisted wherever I could, diligently putting into practice the lessons Mai had taught me.

I stopped for a sip of water, taking a beat to admire my incredible woman. She’d put herself out there, setting her emotions and comfort on fire to do this show. And here she was, bent over her machine, a small crinkle of concentration marring her forehead as she created magic.

I love her.

I twisted the lid back on my water bottle, quietly chuckling to myself.

Of course, I loved her. How could I not fall in love with my best friend? The real revelation was that it had taken me so long to realize. All those dates I’d sabotaged, all those times I’d text her—a basket of fries already ordered. She’d always been the one.

Mine.

“Five minutes remaining!” Michelle called.

“Almost there,” Mai murmured, her brow furrowed in concentration as she finished the final seam. She held up the magnetic closure suit jacket, examining it with a critical eye. “What do you think?”

“It’s perfect,” I assured her. “Stylish, innovative, and made with care for the wearer. The judges will love it.”

We sent our model out onto the runway, the navy suit impeccably tailored, the magnetic closures shining subtly as she walked. Mai squeezed my hand nervously as the judges examined the garment.

Alison ran an approving hand over the fabric. “Excellent construction and such a clever, inclusive design. Your choice of the shape of the magnetic closures is perfect—it looks luxe while still being functional. And I must say, I love how you’ve once again used pattern to tie the pieces together. Well done.”

Gretchen and Jodie clawed back some points with a denim one-piece made from vintage scraps sewn into a patchwork quilt-like pattern. Jude and Keeley, meanwhile, produced a rather sensual piece of lingerie in a dark green that the judges had loved.

Despite Gretchen and Jodie’s hard work, the points once again had us neck and neck with Jude and Keeley going into the final round.

“We’re taking a lunch break,” Michelle announced. “Please help yourself to food.”

We headed over to the catering table and loaded up our plates. Gretchen and Jodie took a seat beside us, both looking glum.

“We’re too far behind,” Gretchen said, poking at her sandwich. “We’ll never make up the points.”

“Don’t be like that.” Mai bumped her with her shoulder. “Anything could happen. We could rip the train off a dress at the last minute?—”

“Done that,” I said around a mouth full of food.

“Or cut your hand open and bleed on the satin.”

I held up my bandaged pinky finger. “Guilty.”

“Or—”

Gretchen laughed, shaking her head. “Okay, okay, I get it. We could have a miracle.”

“You could,” Mai said firmly. “And that’s exciting.”

I couldn’t help but notice Jude and Keeley glaring daggers at us from across the room. I ignored them, taking a huge bite out of my sandwich.

So much for not being worthy of your time.

As lunch finished, I excused myself, heading for the bathroom. I was washing my hands when Jude entered.

He stopped beside me, crossing his arms, his glare still in place.

“You know,” I said easily, pulling a paper towel from the dispenser. “You’ll get more wrinkles if you keep frowning like that.”

“You’re about to lose.”

I snorted, tossing the used paper in the recycling. “Hate to break it to you, buddy, but we’re tied. This is anyone’s game.”

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