Chapter 636 Is She Qualified Enough For You?
"I have a candidate in mind." Natalie finally broke her silence.
Flora had not considered who could take over as the head makeup artist, but she was certain that someone of the current artist's demeanor could not remain on her team.
"Who?" the head makeup artist asked with a hint of panic, secretly hoping Natalie was merely bluffing to intimidate her.
"How about Vivian?" Natalie proposed with a smile, "Is she qualified enough for you?"
Vivian was already renowned internationally as a top makeup artist.
"That's right! Vivian openly supported Natalie during that scandal!"
The others recalled that Natalie and Vivian had a good relationship.
In comparison to Vivian, the head makeup artist looked like a novice.
"Ladies, I must ask you to leave now, or I’ll be forced to call security, which will not reflect well on anyone here but myself," Flora announced, gesturing to her assistant to arrange for some backup models to come in.
These backup models, sourced from schools, were undiscovered yet professional and affordable, making them an ideal alternative.
Flora's debut was of exceptional quality. The women who had attempted to undermine her were relatively famous models filled with arrogance but lacking substance. They mistook Flora's calm and gentle demeanor for weakness, only to be met with an unyielding resolve.
The group departed in a state of disappointment, with one model dissolving into tears.
Flora remained stoic, her heart seemingly as cold as iron.
Her assistant brought the backup models in, and Jane escorted these newcomers to the studio for their portrait session. The ones who had just exited did not even merit a minor appearance in Flora's project.
Natalie and Flora exchanged a look, a silent agreement between them.
Natalie stepped forward, addressing those who remained, "I’m aware there may still be doubts among you. Perhaps you were too slow in speaking up earlier. Nevertheless, I hope for a smooth cooperation over the next couple of days. As for my capabilities, the outcome will not only convince you but also the public."
In truth, no one but Flora herself was in a position to judge Natalie's suitability.
"Let's start," Natalie suggested, noting that the runway was nearly ready, requiring only the final adjustments to the lighting, "Shall we prepare for a complete rehearsal in thirty minutes?"
The group exchanged apprehensive and uneasy looks, gulping. They sensed the challenge in Natalie’s words, a challenge to silence all skeptics.
"What’s happening? Since when did Natalie become so confrontational? Wasn’t she very gentle in the past?”
The murmurs spread. Everyone thought that Jane was the only one to be wary of, not Natalie. They continued to speculate, thinking that Jane’s earlier silence was because Jane found them unworthy of her intervention.
In the interim, Natalie made a discreet phone call to her friend, Vivian, to check her availability and willingness to assist.
"An invitation from you? I’ll make time," Vivian responded, her laughter echoing through the phone, “Before I was a top makeup artist, you believed in me. I still owe you a thank you.”
…
The upcoming fashion show was poised to be a groundbreaking and dramatic event, requiring models to convey the significance and narratives behind each piece, not simply walk with blank expressions. They required a commanding presence and expressiveness.
For the rehearsal, the formal show attire was unnecessary. Everyone wore their casual outfits.
An hour later, almost all appeared defeated, except for Natalie. Some were astonished by Natalie's skill, while others felt the sting of Flora's incisive critiques.
Flora's admonitions were devoid of vulgarity, reminiscent of a compassionate yet assertive high school counselor capable of making someone feel utterly insignificant without ever raising their voice.
"Flora, you can handle the other tasks for now. I have everything under control here. Come back and review when you’re able,” Natalie said, noticing Flora's preoccupation with the design team's concerns, the lighting crew's challenges, and urgent media inquiries.
Flora showed no hesitation or concern as she left Natalie in command.
Natalie led the models to the rehearsal area, her gaze scrutinizing them. She noticed a hint of defiance in some eyes. Clearly, they were reluctant to accept leadership from someone they viewed merely as a fellow model.
"Let’s start from the beginning once more, in sequence. I will highlight any discrepancies," Natalie stated with authority, "You can take my advice or leave it."
Having witnessed Flora's attitude, everyone reluctantly acquiesced, their resentment simmering beneath the surface.
"Walk with poise. You’re dressed in a garment that symbolizes opulence; envision yourself as a noble. Yes, exactly! That disdain is perfect! Be proud and aloof."
"Your eyes lack the sparkle that’s perfect for a traditional runway but not for what we have planned tomorrow."
"The issue lies with your waist—it’s too stiff. The dress… Ah, yes, it's called 'Mermaid' for a reason. The essence of its design focuses on the waist. You have a stunning waist, babe, make sure to show it off."
"When you strike that pose, try to throw your shoulders back a bit more, and pop your hip out... like this, yes. Now, a bit more sass in your expression."
Laughter filled the room; some even adopted the sassy demeanor for themselves.
After providing individual guidance to everyone, it became evident that most issues were minor. However, in the ruthless limelight of the runway, such details could be the difference between success and failure in one’s career.
Initially, when Natalie entered the rehearsal space, some viewed her with skepticism. By now, their sentiments had shifted to respect.
"Natalie, aren’t you worried we might overshadow you if you give us all these tips?” one of the models suddenly asked.
Having given extensive advice, Natalie unscrewed a water bottle and took a drink. With a raised eyebrow and a playful smile, she responded, "Go ahead and try to overshadow me!”
Her reply rendered everyone speechless.
Despite the fact that opening and closing the show solidified Natalie's status, her mere presence on the runway was compelling enough to ensure unanimous admiration.
The group's laughter bridged the gap between them. They were surprised someone like Natalie was so approachable. Although she seemed aloof, there was a genuine warmth to her.
…
Those removed from the show were bound by confidentiality and could not share details about the dress.
However, the models faced no such restrictions.
Before long, the fashion industry, driven by media speculation, was abuzz with anticipation for Flora's debut, particularly with Natalie serving as both the opener and closer. This stirred considerable excitement.
Initially, the fashion media was the primary group interested in the show. However, once Natalie's involvement was publicized, entertainment journalists also converged, scouring for any tidbits of gossip.
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