Chapter 91
The invitation-only fashion showcase unfolded within the gilded walls of a breathtaking estate, where every detail whispered luxury.
Crystal chandeliers cast prismatic light across marble floors as guests stepped into a celestial wonderland. The vaulted ceiling had been transformed into a mesmerizing night sky, complete with twinkling constellations that made attendees feel suspended among the stars.
Lucas trailed behind Evelyn and Isabella, his actor's charm radiating as he surveyed the spectacle. "Impressive," he murmured, running a hand through his tousled hair.
Evelyn shot him an amused glance, lifting her chin with pride. "Obviously. Only three A-listers made the guest list—consider yourself lucky."
"The honor is mine," Lucas replied with a roguish grin that made nearby staff members blush.
"Natalie!" Evelyn called out as their host approached. The designer paused mid-stride when she noticed Lucas, then recovered with practiced grace. "Well, if it isn't Mr. Heartthrob himself."
Lucas leaned against a marble column, hands tucked in his pockets. "Planning to conquer the fashion world tonight, Beaumont?"
A delicate pink flushed Natalie's cheeks as she laughed behind her hand. "Says the man who broke the internet with his last magazine cover."
"Ouch, forgetting my name already?" Lucas teased, his emerald eyes glinting with mischief.
Natalie's gaze sparkled as she met his challenge. "Lucas Sterling, are you flirting with me?"
His rich laughter echoed through the hall. "Just keeping you on your toes. Don't let me interrupt—I'll find the champagne."
As Lucas sauntered away, Natalie turned to her friends with renewed energy. "Come on, we've got transformations to complete." She linked arms with Evelyn and Isabella, who were too engrossed in the celestial decor to notice their friend's lingering glance toward the retreating actor.
"This is magical!" Evelyn breathed, spinning slowly to take in the suspended galaxies above them. "Your collection hasn't even debuted and it's already legendary."
Natalie arched an eyebrow. "Says my business partner who hasn't attended a single planning meeting."
Isabella quickly interjected, "Where are these mythical dresses we're supposed to wear?"
With a clap of Natalie's hands, assistants wheeled out a draped clothing rack. The designer unveiled three gowns with a dramatic flourish of white tulle.
Evelyn and Isabella gasped in unison.
"Welcome to 'Celestial Divinity,'" Natalie announced, running her fingers over the exquisite fabrics. "Forget tired galaxy prints—this collection celebrates the infinite facets of womanhood. We can be ethereal, powerful, mysterious—whatever we choose."
She lifted the centerpiece gown—a cascading white satin masterpiece dotted with delicate blue forget-me-nots. The off-shoulder bodice gave way to a fishtail skirt adorned with luminous amethyst beads that shimmered like distant stars.
"Evelyn, this Cassiopeia creation was designed for you."
Evelyn accepted the dress with reverence, its craftsmanship surpassing even the haute couture she'd seen earlier that week.
Isabella received her Gemini-inspired ensemble while Natalie selected her own design. The trio disappeared into separate dressing chambers.
When they emerged, the entire room stilled.
All eyes locked onto Evelyn. The deep V-neckline was artfully obscured by floral embroidery, creating an illusion of modesty and allure. The fitted waist accentuated her slender frame before the skirt exploded into a constellation of glowing pearls that pooled at her feet like captured starlight.
A collective sigh rippled through the staff. "Goddess incarnate," someone whispered.
Natalie beamed with satisfaction as her vision came to life. The celestial transformation was complete.