Chapter 635 A Rabid Dog
In the following exceptionally busy week, Flora and Jane were working tirelessly. Flora was coordinating a major show while Jane photographed the models and outfits.
Natalie was also occupied with her responsibilities, showcasing two distinct outfits: one for the opening and another for the finale. Each outfit encapsulated a unique style and mood, representing the evolution in the life philosophy of the same character, as outlined in the brief narrative crafted by Flora.
Compared to Flora and Jane, Natalie's tasks were somewhat less demanding.
Despite the chaos, operations were proceeding smoothly until the eve of the show, when unexpected trouble emerged.
Natalie was the final model to be photographed. As she exited the studio alongside Jane and Flora Lee, they encountered a commotion.
"I can’t accept this. I demand an explanation from Wine. Why does Natalie get both the opening and closing slots? If this were the Natalie of the past, perhaps it would be justified, but now, she’s no longer at her peak. Why is she still receiving such treatment? I won’t stand for this! I want an explanation!"
The person causing a scene was a moderately famous model recognized for her international endeavors. Her slot was somewhere in the middle, which was considered minor by most standards, but it was still a respectable position.
Until this moment, Flora had maintained the secrecy of the person opening and closing the show. It was only now that everyone found out that it would be Natalie.
Natalie, once celebrated in the modeling industry, had become the subject of ridicule.
When Natalie arrived today, she was greeted with astonishment; her participation was unexpected. To many, she was no longer like before due to her injury.
"What’s the issue here?" Flora inquired, her tone soft yet her gaze icy, a warning to those observant enough to notice.
The model's words resonated with many; she had given voice to what many were thinking.
Upon seeing Natalie, many of them did not hide their disdain and scorn.
The atmosphere was heavy with animosity.
"Wine, I deeply respect your talent and feel privileged to collaborate with you. Nevertheless, I have reservations and objections regarding your decisions," the model stated, not hiding her disdain for Natalie.
Jane remained calm as she looked at Natalie, asking with her gaze, ‘Do you have beef with her?’
Natalie shook her head, indicating she did not know the other party.
Jane nodded in understanding. She understood very well that rabid dogs needed no reason to bite.
For some, excellence is deemed a fault. For others, the excellence of another is perceived as an offense.
"Oh, what are your objections?" Flora asked cooperatively.
“Since you asked, I’ll just be straight with you,” the model, sneering at Natalie, “We’re all aware of Natalie's leg injury and its impact on her as a model. I understand she’s your friend, Wine, but special treatment in this regard is inappropriate. Assigning her pivotal roles in the show brings into question your dedication to the show. We’re concerned that one individual might compromise the collective effort."
"In other words, you disagree with my decision, correct?” Flora asked calmly.
The model crossed her arms, nodding.
"What do all of you think?" Flora Lee turned to the others and asked.
"Wine, I must say, I also believe Natalie isn’t the best choice for this. Even if you wish to support her due to your friendship, you should have given her a less conspicuous position. Moreover, it’ll only be embarrassing for her if you give her such a prominent role.”
Flora studied the speaker for a moment before she asked, "You’re a makeup artist, right?"
The makeup artist confirmed with a nod.
Subsequently, three or four other models voiced their opposition to Natalie opening and closing the show.
Natalie observed with a serene expression on her face, taking in every look of jealousy, excitement, desire, and anticipation. Secretly, many of them hoped she would become a laughingstock, so they would feel better about themselves. Moreover, if she was deprived of the opening and closing spots, it meant that all of them had a chance to be in the spotlight.
"If anyone here has an issue with Natalie or can’t bear to participate in the show alongside her…" Flora Lee began, speaking at a deliberately slow pace.
A number of individuals barely concealed their anticipation, eagerly awaiting Flora's decision to dismiss Natalie. They savored the prospect of witnessing the downfall of a once-celebrated legend, now trampled under their feet.
“... Then you can leave,” Flora declared.
"What? What did you say?"
Everyone could not hide their shock.
Jane could not contain her amusement and burst into laughter, which felt like a slap to their faces.
"Do you comprehend the gravity of your swords?"
The model, caught between embarrassment and anger, found herself in an awkward position.
"Why would I forsake my closest friend for any of you?" Flora countered, "It’s common knowledge that Natalie and I are close. Isn’t it normal for me to use my resources to support my best friend?"
"Wine, if you dismiss us all, you’re only seeking trouble. The show is scheduled for tomorrow," the model warned, finally realizing the depth of Natalie's significance to Flora and that she had underestimated that importance.
‘Why would anyone risk their debut, even if it’s for their best friend?’ the model thought to herself.
“You don’t have to worry about that. I’ve already prepared for that. The absence of a few will hardly be felt," Flora assured with a smile, "I must ask you to leave now. This includes you, Miss Makeup Artist. And do remember the confidentiality agreements you all signed. Should any information regarding the set or the outfits be disclosed prior to the show, you’ll face a lawsuit."
Her words sent chills down everyone’s spines, and their faces turned ashen.
The others, who had remained silent, sighed in relief, grateful to have avoided the confrontation.
Flora might not be a top designer yet, but her talent and potential, coupled with mentorship from an iconic figure in the fashion industry, indicated a bright future ahead.
None were eager to leave.
"Wine, our earlier comments were thoughtless, said in the heat of the moment,” the model pleaded, “We didn’t mean any harm. You understand, right?”
"Wine, we are bound by contracts; you can’t simply tell us to leave on a whim."
"Ms. Wine, as the head of the makeup department, you can’t just dismiss me. Who would you find as a replacement on such short notice?"
Listening to their continuous excuses, Flora interjected, "Your comments earlier have already violated the terms of our agreement. As the person in charge, I possess the full authority to terminate your contract. Regarding the makeup…"
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