Chapter 217

"This could go viral worldwide."

Julian Hawthorne's expression darkened as he overheard the murmurs of approval surrounding him. Most attendees were raving about the fashion show unfolding before them.

Beside him, Donovan Pierce wiped his damp forehead nervously. "Mr. Hawthorne, they lost their signature pieces," he whispered. "This will be a complete disaster when-"

His words died abruptly as a model wearing the redesigned centerpiece made her grand entrance.

The entire venue fell into stunned silence. Every eye locked onto the runway.

Evelyn Carter's on-the-spot redesign featured daring color combinations and revolutionary silhouettes.

What made it truly extraordinary was its uniqueness - a masterpiece demanding undivided attention.

"Quick, get shots of this! The tailoring is impeccable. Undoubtedly tonight's showstopper."

"This designer is phenomenal! She's created an entirely new aesthetic."

"I must interview her immediately after this."

"To design such groundbreaking pieces while honoring our cultural heritage - she must be deeply patriotic."

"She deserves every headline we'll write about her."

Julian's face twisted in barely concealed rage. He shifted uncomfortably, unable to find a comfortable position.

As he stared at the transformed garments, conflicting emotions warred within him.

He'd severely underestimated Evelyn Carter.

Who could have imagined she'd reconstruct shredded fabric into breathtaking new designs?

And accomplished this impossible feat in mere minutes?

A violent coughing fit seized Julian. Donovan rushed to support him. "Mr. Hawthorne, are you-"

"Get off me!" Julian shoved him away. "Is this your idea of handling things?"

"I...I don't understand how this happened. But I swear, I have a backup plan."

Julian's jaw clenched painfully.

Their shock intensified when Evelyn herself appeared on the runway moments later.

Her graceful figure moved with timeless elegance, as if she'd stepped straight out of a vintage photograph.

The audience gasped collectively.

"Exquisite! Absolutely breathtaking! This bodycon dress is a work of art! Every stitch whispers retro glamour."

"The model and dress complement each other perfectly, like they were made for one another. I can't look away."

"This must be the grand finale. It's spectacular. Truly spectacular."

Excitement electrified the air.

Camera flashes exploded like fireworks as Evelyn commanded the stage. The live stream servers nearly crashed from the sudden influx of viewers.

Comments flooded the screen:

"Good heavens, this model is divine. She radiates old Hollywood charm."

"She looks familiar though... Have we seen her somewhere?"

"Wait, I recognize her! She's the Kingsley heiress - from the world's wealthiest family!"

"The heiress is modeling? And she's absolutely slaying it!"

"I'm officially declaring myself an Evelyn Carter fan starting today. No takebacks."

"But that dress... I've seen it before. Wasn't this the same piece that sold for $20 million at auction last month?"