Chapter 92
Isabella Montgomery gasped when she saw Evelyn Sinclair emerge from the dressing room.
Though Isabella's own gown was exquisite, Evelyn's celestial-inspired dress transformed her into a vision of ethereal beauty. The way the delicate fabric draped over her curves, accentuated by strategically placed baby's breath flowers, made her radiate an otherworldly glow.
Natalie Beaumont's eyes widened in delight. "Finale model change!" she announced to her team before Evelyn could protest. "Evelyn will close the show." With quick efficiency, she rearranged the entire lineup.
Evelyn blinked in surprise as Isabella rushed over, squealing with excitement. "Darling, you're absolutely meant to be the grand finale! That dress was made for you."
Natalie grabbed Isabella's arm. "And you're opening the show, no arguments!" Before Isabella could respond, Natalie disappeared to oversee last-minute preparations.
The venue buzzed with anticipation as distinguished guests settled into their seats. The runway's dramatic lighting created an intimate atmosphere, focusing all attention on the models while keeping the audience in shadow.
Music pulsed through the space as the show commenced. Isabella made her entrance, commanding the runway with effortless grace. The audience murmured appreciatively at her stunning appearance. As she reached the end of the catwalk, her gaze briefly flickered toward two familiar figures in the second row before she vanished backstage.
Upstairs, Evelyn stood calmly preparing for her moment. The updo hairstyle revealed her elegant neckline, enhancing her regal bearing. "Guess who's sitting front row?" Isabella whispered excitedly as she joined her.
Evelyn's lips curved knowingly. "Sophia Blackwood and Vanessa Holloway, of course." She'd spotted Nathan's sister and his mistress the moment they arrived. "They didn't even recognize you on the runway."
"Disgusting creatures," Isabella muttered. "But never mind them - this is your night!"
A staff member approached. "Ms. Sinclair, you're on in five."
Meanwhile, in a shadowy corner of the venue, Tristan Whitmore nudged Nathan Blackwood. "Look alive, mate! These models are spectacular - miles more captivating than your ex-wife ever was. If you fancy one, just say the - holy hell!"
Tristan's jaw dropped as Evelyn stepped onto the runway. He rubbed his eyes in disbelief. "Is that... Evelyn Sinclair?"
Nathan's head snapped up. His breath caught as his gaze locked onto the mesmerizing figure gliding down the catwalk.
Evelyn moved with hypnotic grace, her faint smile contrasting with her cool, composed expression. The intricate floral embellishments highlighted her curves perfectly, while the flowing fabric created an illusion of floating through space. She embodied celestial elegance personified.
The entire audience sat transfixed. Even their breathing seemed to pause as Evelyn commanded the runway with her breathtaking presence. Her flawless execution of each turn and pause demonstrated professional mastery that belied her amateur status.
Natalie watched from the wings, thrilled with her decision. Only Evelyn could do justice to this masterpiece of a gown.
From their seats, Sophia and Vanessa chattered excitedly. "That dress is divine!" Sophia gushed, tugging Vanessa's sleeve. "I must get a photo with the model! She must be some European superstar."
Vanessa frowned, squinting at the distant figure. Something about the model seemed oddly familiar... but surely Evelyn Sinclair couldn't possibly be modeling at such an exclusive event? "Must be someone else," she muttered to herself.
On the runway, Evelyn completed her final turn, the delicate flowers shimmering under the lights. The audience remained spellbound, unaware of the dramatic irony unfolding before them - the woman they admired was none other than the ex-wife of one of their own, the very woman many had once dismissed as unremarkable.
As Evelyn disappeared backstage, the thunderous applause that erupted signaled more than just appreciation for the dress - it marked the beginning of her transformation in their eyes, though none yet realized it.