Chapter 448
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“ I’m almost there. We’ll talk in person,” Caitlin said into the phone as she stepped backstage, flanked by a team of models and designer. Wade.
Justin spotted her and rushed over. “Caitlin-
But then his eyes fell on Wade and the fully styled models behind her. Confused, he asked, “What… what’s going on? ”
“Justin, the situation’s urgent,” Caitlin said. “Our ‘Majestic Elegance‘ theme was likely leaked. That’s why I’ve decided to go with Wade’s collection for this show.”
She turned to her team. “Go update the show visuals immediately!”
“Yes, ma’am!”
“Come on, Wade. Get ready to go onstage.”
“Got it!”
With only a minute left before the show began, dozens of models waited at the runway entrance. Wade made last–minute adjustments, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Meanwhile, Justin stood off to the side, watching the whirlwind of changes unfold, feeling like he’d been cast aside.
“Caitlin,” he protested, “you’re replacing my designs last minute? This was supposed to be my show!”
“I get how you feel, Justin. But you’ve seen what’s happened. XEG launched their show early using our theme. If we go ahead with your designs now, we’ll be accused of plagiarism.”
Caitlin kept her voice calm. “Don’t worry, I’ll personally look into what happened. You’ll get your chance to shine. But right now , I need you to
trust me.”
Though Justin wasn’t satisfied, he had no argument. He swallowed his frustration–for now.
But deep down, he was furious. All his hard work, swept away. Now Wade would get all the glory, and he’d be nothing but a footnote. And worse, someone had leaked his designs. Who?
Out front, the giant digital displays quickly shifted from “Majestic Elegance” to the new title: “Mythic Silhouettes.”
The music changed to an elegant, vintage–inspired melody. Lighting and ambiance were updated on the fly.
Guests and reporters in the audience exchanged murmurs. Clearly, something had changed last minute–and everyone suspected it had to
do with XEG.
Still, even with the new theme, if the designs looked the same, TIG would be in trouble.
The host announced the new theme, and the show began.
The first model stepped onto the runway, wearing a stunning gown that blended vintage charm with modern flair.
Anyone who had seen the earlier XEG coverage immediately realized–this was an entirely different collection.
The designs were fresh, the cuts bold, and the artistry undeniable.
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As model after model took the stage, the audience was captivated , Cameras flashed nonstop . Fashion experts and guests i as they took notes and recorded footage.
Backstage, Caitlin and Molly watched the live screen, both finally exhaling.
“Caitlin, I have to hand it to you–you’re brilliant,” Molly said, thoroughly impressed.
She finally understood why Caitlin had asked her to prepare a backup model team earlier. It wasn’t just paranoia–it was foresight.
“You expected XEG might try to sabotage the show, didn’t you?” Molly asked. “That’s why you had Wade’s collection as a contingency ”
“I had a hunch,” Caitlin replied. “Zora’s vendetta is too obvious. The moment they announced a show on the same day, I knew they’d pull something.”
“But how did our theme end up in their hands?” Molly frowned.
“We’ll find out,” Caitlin said, eyes sharp. “I promise you, we’ll find out.”
Twenty minutes later, the “Mythic Silhouettes” show wrapped up to thunderous applause.
Wade took the stage with the models, greeted by flowers and flashing cameras. All eyes were on him.
Overnight, the once–unknown designer had become fashion’s next rising star.
During his short speech, Wade thanked Caitlin for her mentorship, acknowledging that without her guidance, this collection wouldn’t have been possible.
Once the show concluded, Molly dismissed her models. The cleanup and backstage duties would be handled by TIG staff.
Later that evening, TIG hosted a celebratory gala at the Royal Grand Hotel. They invited all VIPs and guests to join them at the event.
Wade carefully packed up each look, placing everything in garment bags before handing them off to the logistics team.
As he turned to leave, Justin blocked his path.
Without warning, Justin punched him square in the jaw. Wade stumbled back, hitting the wall hard.
“What the hell, Justin?!”
“You know damn well what!”
Justin was fuming, his voice cracking with rage. “You leaked my designs, didn’t you? Then you got to swoop in with your collection and take my spot. What a setup.”
“I didn’t!” Wade snapped. “Ask yourself how your designs got leaked. I had nothing to do with it. Caitlin only chose me because we needed a fallback plan. If this hadn’t happened, I never would’ve had the chance.”
“Oh, spare me,” Justin spat. “You think I don’t know what’s going on between you and Caitlin? You’re just a bootlicker ! Everything that should’ve been mine, you sucked your way into getting! It’s disgusting.”
“You’ve got it all wrong,” Wade said firmly. “There’s nothing going on between me and Caitlin. She’s my boss, and I re
“Yeah, sure. Keep telling yourself that.” Justin shoved him
From Justin’s perspective, it was all clear. Wade had played landed that stage time on merit.
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her . That’s it . ”
again before storming off.
to Caitlin and weaseled his way into the spotlight . No way a nobody like him
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At the Royal Grand Hotel’s Aurelia Room…
Zora and her XEG team were already celebrating their “victory”
She had specifically chosen this venue knowing TIG’s gala would be next door in The Marquis Room.
But at the moment, The Marquis Room sat empty. Zora smirked.
Looks like tonight’s celebration belonged to XEG alone.
The XEG launch had gone off without a hitch. Their version of the “Majestic Elegance” theme was trending across fashion media.
Critics praised the line for its sophistication and timeliness. The positive buzz was strong
As the party wore on, Zora called over her assistant.
“Our show wrapped up perfectly. TIG was supposed to start half an hour after us. What’s going on over there? Did they cance!?”
Zora couldn’t wait to see Caitlin humiliated.
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