As Joann reveled in the envy of her peers, a man suddenly spoke up.
Why dont I recall designing such a dress?
His tone was light yet puzzled, drawing everyones attention.
Those familiar with the fashion scene recognized him and exclaimed, Its Nikolai! Ive only ever seen his pictures in magazines. He looks even better in person!
Nikolai scanned Joann from head to toe and clarified, I didnt design that dress. The one I designed is on her.
He then pointed to Stella.
As soon as Nikolai concluded, eyes turned toward Joann, all laden with significance.
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Oh my God! She was called out by the very person involved. If I were in Joanns shoes, Id die of embarrassment.
Such pretense! Even if she wore a regular dress, nobody would have cared. Why boast about it? Now, shes been caught in her lie.
The murmurs inevitably found their way to Joann. Seething with rage, she found no outlet for her fury. Her face, adorned with makeup, twisted in distress.
Stella, meanwhile, was oblivious to the fact that her dress was a Nikolai original. Her makeup, done by the makeup artists Matthew had arranged, had diverted her attention from such details.
Nikolai approached Stella with a warm smile. Its been a while. You always manage to surprise me whenever we meet.
His gaze was one of genuine admiration.
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.
Caught off guard and unable to feign ignorance of Nikolai, Stella responded with unease, Thank you.
On the sidelines, Lindsay watched their exchange, her fists clenched so tightly that her nails nearly pierced her skin.
She had wanted Matthew to introduce her to Nikolai, but he had deflected with excuses. Yet here he was, effortlessly facilitating an introduction for Stella.
Lindsay struggled to contain her mounting jealousy.
After some time, Lindsay approached Joann, who was still simmering with anger, and attempted to console her. Mr. Todd would certainly recognize his own design. Perhaps youve been misled?
Hearing Lindsays voice, Joann slowly regained her composure, although her expression remained troubled.
Before her engagement, she had requested Bennett to tailor a dress for her, but he had excused himself, citing work commitments, and suggested she handle it herself. Determined not to face humiliation, she had someone pay two million dollars for a designer gown by Nikolai.
As she collected her thoughts, Joann spoke up with newfound assurance.
Thats impossible! The dress, costing me a fortune, must be authentic. Mr. Todd, considering the volume of designs you produce, its possible youve overlooked one or two.
Laughter erupted from the audience at her audacity to challenge Nikolai directly.
Nikolai merely smirked and replied, I did create such a dress three years ago, but only one was made, and it was purchased by a Yulord princess. Are you claiming to be her?