Page 4 of Clashing with the Ice Queen

“I believe it’s time for a change,” Nadine replied, surprised at her own boldness.

For a moment, they stood there, two women at different points in their careers. The city life roared around them, butNadine felt only the connection in their exchange. The respect that flickered between them was undeniable.

“I’ll be watching Pulse Media closely,” Cassandra said, her smile seemed almost genuine. “I have a feeling you have some exciting things planned.”

“Thanks, I really hope so,” Nadine replied, the thrill of potential sparking inside her as Cassandra stepped away.

Nadine had always dreamed of moments like this. She was finally at a fashion conference surrounded by experts and industry leaders. The energy buzzed around her as people mingled, exchanged ideas, and showcased the latest trends. Nadine felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as she plotted her next move in the highbrow environment.

Her heart raced as she recalled how she’d interrupted Cassandra’s speech. She’d stood out from the usual uninterrupted flow, and her voice had quivered slightly as she’d made her point. To her surprise, Cassandra had smiled and engaged with her. It had been a brief moment, but it meant the world to Nadine. She knew the opportunity to talk to someone as important as Cassandra was rare.

As she wandered around the venue, Nadine couldn’t shake the feeling of admiration for Cassandra. And, maybe, something more. She was confident and commanding, and Nadine wanted to learn from her. She spotted Cassandra across the room, chatting with a group of industry elites. Nadine felt a tug in her chest, wishing she could engage with Cassandra again. But for now, she had to focus on networking with others.

Nadine approached a well-known Instagram fashion mogul named Bella. Bella was stunning, with her perfectly styled hair and a wardrobe that sparkled. Nadine had followed her online for years and admired her work. “Hi, Bella!” she exclaimed, trying to sound casual but feeling a bit nervous. “I love your posts! You’re such an inspiration!”

Bella turned to Nadine with a warm smile, but it quickly faded when she realized who Nadine was. “Thanks,” Bella said, glancing past Nadine as if searching for someone more important. “But I only work with top companies, you know?” Her tone was dismissive, and Nadine felt her heart sink. It felt like the air had been knocked out of her lungs. She watched as Bella turned away to talk to someone else, leaving Nadine standing alone.

Feeling rejected, Nadine made her way to another part of the conference. She had come here to network, to find allies in the fashion world, but so far, it did not seem to be going well. The laughter and chatter around her felt distant as her mind wandered back to Cassandra. Why couldn’t she stop thinking about the tall, blonde CEO? Perhaps it was the way Cassandra spoke so eloquently, or maybe it was the confidence that radiated from her. Or maybe the way Cassandra had looked at her with hunger, like she might devour Nadine there and then.

Nadine felt a warm tingle between her legs at the thought.

Nadine found herself gazing at Cassandra, who was now laughing with a group of executives.

Nadine couldn’t help but admire Cassandra’s commanding presence. Everything about her was captivating. Nadine wanted the chance to speak with her again, to ask her about running a fashion business and all the lessons she’d learned. She felt silly for being so affected by a short conversation, but this was a pivotal moment for her career—this could be the beginning of something big.

As Nadine walked farther into the event, she tried to find a way to forge a path back to Cassandra. She scanned the room, hoping to catch a moment where Cassandra was alone. Nadine knew she had to be brave. She had to put herself out there—even if others dismissed her. She felt determined. Maybe if she waited long enough, she’d find an opening.

As she approached the refreshment table, Nadine caught a glimpse of Cassandra again. The way she stood—tall and composed in an immaculate duck egg blue designer pantsuit that highlighted her svelte figure—encouraged Nadine. She took a deep breath, her heart racing with anticipation. This time, she wouldn’t let an opportunity slip through her fingers. Nadine grabbed a drink and glanced around for a moment, waiting for the right moment.

Just then, Cassandra stepped away from the group and walked toward the lounge area. Nadine’s heart leaped with hope. This was her chance. She quickly followed Cassandra, trying to maintain a calm demeanor. The lounge was quieter, and Nadine felt excitement building inside her. She approached carefully, hoping not to interrupt.

“Ms. Wynter?” Nadine said, her voice trembling slightly. Cassandra turned, her blue eyes meeting Nadine’s.

“Oh, hello again!” Cassandra said warmly, her smile genuine this time. Maybe she mellowed with more wine.

“What’s on your mind?”

Nadine felt a rush of relief. “I just wanted to say thank you for responding to me earlier. I admire your work and want to learn more about running a fashion business.”

Cassandra’s expression softened, and for a moment, Nadine felt like she could connect with someone extraordinary. They started to talk, and Nadine found herself sharing her passion and vision for her own startup. The confidence she’d lost earlier came back as she realized how important it was to seize the moment.

“Your business sounds like it has potential. Maybe I could share some experience and wisdom with you sometime?” Cassandra’s gaze was seductive. She took another sip from her red wine.

Nadine felt desire blooming hot inside of her.

“Want to step out for some fresh air?” Cassandra’s invitation was loaded and Nadine wanted to see what was next on her agenda.

Nadine nodded and they stepped outside into the cool night air on the terrace, the sounds of the party muffling behind them as they lingered in a quiet corner. The sky was a deep navy, studded with shimmering stars that felt almost as glamorous as the world they inhabited.

“What brought you to where you are now?” Cassandra asked, Nadine couldn’t stop looking at her in the faint light from the building.

Nadine felt the urge to share. “I had a pretty supportive family, you know. They always pushed me to be true to myself. I was rebellious in my youth, always wanting to challenge the rules, which wasn’t always easy for them to handle.”

Cassandra’s blue eyes narrowed slightly as she processed Nadine’s words. “Rebellion can be freeing,” she said softly. “My upbringing was quite different. My parents had very high expectations. I was expected to achieve, to excel in everything—but there was very little love or support. I was often left feeling cold, as if success was my only value.”

There was a strange silence after those words. Nadine, who often viewed Cassandra as an untouchable force, realized the weight of her burden. “That must have been tough,” Nadine replied, her voice compassionate. “It’s like they didn’t see you for who you really are.”

Cassandra tilted her head slightly, a hint of vulnerability shimmering in her gaze. “Yes, and that’s perhaps why I find rebellion so stimulating. When I find someone who’s everything they never wanted me to be—bold, outspoken, kind of exactly who you are—I have to test that way of life.”

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