Chapter 271 The Night of the Grand Show
Natalie's participation in the winter fashion show as a petite model without any significant achievements to her name was primarily due to her exceptional Siberian-themed costume from the Top Avenue competition.
This time, Natalie's ensemble bore a resemblance to her Siberian outfit, with a predominant use of fur and armor, embodying the fierce aura of a warrior queen.
The models waiting backstage were astonished upon seeing Natalie's outfit and turned their attention to Vivian, whom they had previously overlooked. They had not anticipated that this stylist, who typically worked within the entertainment industry, possessed such remarkable talent.
As fast-paced music filled the air, Natalie made her entrance onto the runway. She moved with her characteristic confidence, projecting the commanding presence of both a queen and a victorious warrior. She was proud but not distant, powerful yet not overwhelming.
Just when the audience thought they had grasped Natalie's style as dominant and assertive, she appeared on stage a second time.
She had changed into an exaggerated European classical dress, featuring a voluminous puffy skirt, detailed and elaborate embroidery, and bold, eye-catching colors. Complemented by a large hat, the outfit radiated classical elegance.
Although her strut was the same, her pace was slightly slower, her footsteps lighter, elevating her posture.
To those watching, she moved effortlessly, her skirt gracefully flowing with her movements, epitomizing the elegance and nobility of the aristocrats.
Employing the same walk, she managed to convey a different style through subtle adjustments in rhythm and posture, impressing the professionals in attendance.
Applause during a fashion show is uncommon, but Natalie's appearance captivated everyone's attention. Despite being positioned in the middle, she became the show's focal point through her sheer effort!
Lilian, peering through the curtain gap, was busy taking pictures of Natalie on her phone.
Natalie looked stunningly beautiful.
Before she knew it, Lilian was adjusting the lighting of the photos on her phone. She wondered, ‘Wait, I don’t like Natalie, right? Why won’t my eyes and hands obey me?’
…
The show concluded flawlessly.
"That warrior-themed model earlier was phenomenal! It’s been quite some time since we’ve witnessed such a commanding presence in the country!"
"Indeed, her talent is limitless!"
"Who’s that model? We must find out; perhaps we can sign her."
"Don’t bother. That’s Natalie; she’s under Emily’s management."
"Ah, so that’s Natalie? The Watson family truly lacks discernment, forsaking a gem for Hailey, the lesser talent! Emily has struck gold once again. We may be witnessing the rise of the next Joseph!"
"We should definitely consider that female model for our upcoming fashion event! She’s excellent!"
"Reach out to that model’s agency. Perhaps she can be on the cover of our magazine!"
The audience's praises were not solely for the day's spectacular show but also for Natalie, the unexpected standout model who made a significant impact on the grand stage of the fashion show.
…
Backstage was a whirlwind of activity.
Several top models at the event received bouquets from their fans.
Particularly, Lily, the top model who took away Natalie's original stylist, was presented with a large bouquet of roses by a man in a suit sporting a Rolex. He even looked at Lilian provocatively when he presented the flowers. It was clear that when Natalie emerged from the dressing room later, the ostentatious displays would increase.
Lilian sighed inwardly as she observed the man who appeared to be in his thirties or forties. She wondered if he already had a wife.
"Vivian, please look after Natalie. I’ll be back shortly!"
Vivian attempted to call out to Lilian, but Lilian had already hurried off.
Unlike other models, who relished taking selfies and group photos in designer attire, Natalie was different. She had not even worn half of the limited-edition clothes in her wardrobe. She was indifferent to the clothes themselves; her passion lay in modeling and the perfect fusion of her persona with the attire.
Natalie changed back into her personal clothes and removed her elaborate makeup. When she came out, she asked, “Vivian, where’s Lilian?”
"She ran out. She said she would be back soon."
Natalie had already stirred a fair amount of envy due to the disclosure of her marriage to Oliver, and today, her brilliance on the runway only intensified this sentiment, earning her the admiration of numerous industry professionals.
Professionals frequently referred to her as ‘a gem with unlimited potential’, a description that instilled a sense of crisis and disquiet among her peers.
"Natalie, success on the runway requires caution and time. Don’t allow these people’s praises to get to your head. Who knows if they’re being sincere, or if they’re only trying to curry favor with your husband? If you’re not careful, this might backfire on you. Look, don’t you find your current situation a little uncomfortable?” Lily remarked.
The other models looked at Natalie meaningfully. All of them held bouquets from fans or admirers while Natalie’s hands were empty.
With a slight smile, Natalie responded, "The absence of flowers in my hands today is not an indicator of my ability; it’s just that my progress is too rapid. It’s just like the time when we were competing in school; you, a senior, were overshadowed by me, a junior. Moreover, are you questioning the judgment of professionals in the industry? In your eyes, are they people who easily succumb to power?”
Lily’s disdain for Natalie extended beyond Natalie’s identity as Mrs. Windsor. She was also a model from Sense Academy. During a competition in the past, she, a third-year student, was decisively outshone by Natalie, a first-year student. In the end, the defeat festered into a longstanding grudge.
“You! Since becoming Mrs. Windsor, it seems like you’ve become bolder with your words and more confident!” Lily retorted. She naturally did not dare to comment on the prominent figures in the industry. After all, doing so would risk offending them.
Natalie smiled and retorted, "Since you’re bold with your words, why should I hold back? You’re my senior; it’s only right for me to respond to your comments. Otherwise, wouldn’t I be disrespectful?”
The onlookers, who had initially been inclined to side with Lily in criticizing Natalie, now found themselves grateful they did not speak up earlier.
A hush fell over the room.
Suddenly…
"Someone sent flowers!"
Lilian entered, carrying a large bouquet of blue enchantresses. Her slight frame made her stand out among the models, and her delicate arms barely managed to hold the sizable bouquet. She presented the flowers to Natalie, saying, "Here, these are for you!"
Natalie, taken aback, accepted them and asked, "For me? Who sent them?"