Page 89 of Sexted By a Stranger
"Thank you all." I bowed slightly. "For this design, I used platinum…" I explained my design philosophy to the audience.
Below, the editor of Grandmaster Jeweler magazine scribbled notes furiously while several judges had risen to applaud.
My gaze cut through the flashing cameras to find Luca. His eyes brimmed with pride and love.
"The inspiration for this collection," my voice caught slightly, "came from those glimmers of light that shine even in the darkest moments. When fear tried to consume me, someone built a fortress with their life; when despair sought to crush me, there were hands that held tight and never let go."
"Thank you to everyone who helped bring this collection to life, and to the most steadfast guardian in my life."
Applause crashed over the venue like a tidal wave. I bowed gracefully as tears slipped from my eyes.
That evening, the estate's ballroom blazed with light.
Massive crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead while the air filled with the mingled scents of champagne, fresh flowers, and expensive perfumes. Guests in formal attire raised glasses and conversed.
"Miss Stella, congratulations. Your 'Rebirth & Guardianship' collection is breathtaking."
"Especially the dynamic mechanism design in the main necklace—you've given metal a soul."
"Thank you for your kind words, Mr. White." I clinked glasses with him lightly.
"Mr. Bellomo," Jacob White turned to Luca with admiration, "it seems you've found a true gem."
Luca and I exchanged a smile. "She was never a gem, Jacob. She is the light source itself."
Jacob paused, then broke into an even deeper smile.
"Miss Stella," he turned back to me, "White Jewels is launching our brand-new Legacy series, requiring extremely high innovation in craftsmanship and profound emotional storytelling. Would you be interested in serving as our chief designer?"
This was an incredibly significant olive branch.
"Mr. White," I was delighted and surprised, "thank you so much for your trust and such a precious invitation. Participating in the Legacy series would be my honor."
Just then, Elena Rossi, jewelry editor for Vogue, approached with champagne and an enthusiastic smile.
"Jacob, Mr. Bellomo, Sheila. What's got you all so excited? Oh, Jacob, don't tell me you're trying to poach our rising star for your Legacy series?" Elena's gaze shifted between the three of us. "Sheila, darling, your work conquered everyone tonight."
"Thank you, Elena."
Jacob raised his glass to Elena. "We're exploring that possibility, Elena. Miss Stella has shown tremendous interest in the Legacy concept."
"Jacob, this is major news. White Jewels' Legacy series with our shining new star—Vogue must have exclusive coverage rights. Darling, you'll agree, won't you?" Her expectant gaze settled on me.
"Of course, I'd be honored."
Midway through the gala, melodious dance music began.
Luca took my hand and led me onto the dance floor. In the gentle music and swirling lights, he leaned down to whisper in my ear,
"How does it feel, stellina? Your talent has attracted real hunters. They see the value of 'Sheila Stella' herself, not just the Éclat Lumière designer."
I spun with his guidance. "You predicted this all along?"
"Of course." His mouth curved in a confident smile. "Go for it, Sheila. Your worth deserves the most brilliant stage."
The design work for the Legacy series proved far more challenging than I'd anticipated.
Outside the windows, night had fallen deeply, but my studio in the estate still glowed with light.
