Chapter 640 Personal Matter
Until recently, this remarkable model was subjected to ridicule and rejection by the fashion industry, with her contracts being abruptly terminated. However, the enduring allure of the supermodel, despite being challenged, remains a powerful narrative.
When Flora made her appearance on the stage, the audience greeted her with overwhelming applause, a testament to their admiration.
From the seats, a voice exclaimed, "Wine, way to go!"
This individual was a friend of Flora's mentor, Eric, who had once hoped to take Flora under his wing. He had flown here just to support on behalf of the now-aging Eric.
Flora extended her gratitude to the audience, adhering to the custom of acknowledging those who contributed to the success of her show and outlining the inspiration behind her designs.
"I’m particularly grateful to our makeup artist, Ms. Vivian, for her last-minute assistance, and to my two dear friends: Natalie, who graced our show as both the opening and closing model, and Jane, the photographer for our haute couture shoot," Flora said.
The mere mention of Vivian, Natalie, and Jane suggested that their roles were far from ordinary, sparking anticipation for the discussions that would ensue post-show.
Flora then signaled to Natalie, indicating it was time for her to leave the stage. The news Flora was about to share was not great after all.
"Flora," Natalie called, filled with concern.
"I’ll handle it. As we agreed earlier, this is not the moment for either you or Jane to be associated with me," Flora replied, aiming to prevent any misconceptions or complications.
Sitting among the critics, Arthur had a foreboding feeling. He asked someone nearby, “Where’s the young lady?”
Arthur's daughter, Tina, had excused herself to the restroom. She knew that her father would not be able to accompany her and had left with her father’s assistant and a female employee.
Shortly after, Arthur’s assistant returned, visibly distressed, and reported, "Sir, Miss Tina... She’s been taken by Miss Jane."
“Jane?”
Arthur's usually calm demeanor changed immediately at the mention of Jane. He looked toward the stage, where Flora, holding a microphone, seemed to be looking directly at him.
Despite the throng of people, Arthur was certain Flora was looking at him. Her calmness about his daughter's disappearance suggested it was premeditated between her and Jane. What was Flora planning? He knew Flora could not regain custody of her daughter. She lacked the power to do so.
"Finally," Flora Lee continued, shifting the topic, "I wish to address a personal matter."
The audience was captivated as Flora confronted Arthur.
"Mr. Arthur Windsor," she demanded, "When will you return my daughter to me?"
As her words echoed, the audience broke out in a commotion, whispering in low voices.
"Daughter? Did Wine just talk about her daughter? And she's addressing Arthur? Did I hear wrongly?"
"How’s Arthur connected to Wine? Wasn't it said that Wine came from a modest background? How could she have a child with someone like Arthur?"
"What’s happening? Is Wine married? To whom? Isn't Arthur famously single?"
"I had heard rumors about Arthur suddenly having a daughter... With Wine? It can’t be right? This is too shocking!"
“Wait, weren’t there rumors about Arthur being involved with Susan?”
The revelation became the center of attention, not just among the audience but also backstage, with everyone looking at Natalie.
Natalie, however, showed no surprise, indicating her close relationship with Flora and her awareness of the secret.
Arthur, seated prominently in the VIP section, remained calm and collected, looking at Flora on stage without any visible reaction.
The audience's eyes darted between Arthur and Flora, shocked.
With the conclusion of the fashion show, the restrictions on filming and photography were lifted, leading to a frenzy of flashes illuminating the venue.
Flora, maintaining her poise, addressed the topic at hand.
"This matter is deeply personal and not suited for discussion at a fashion event. However, given my limited influence and my desire to shield my daughter from harm, I felt compelled to speak," she explained, "My daughter has been under my care since her birth. I must be candid, Mr. Arthur; aside from your genetic contribution, you’d played no significant role in her life, nor do you possess any rightful claim to her."
Flora, clutching the microphone firmly, stood undaunted in the spotlight as she continued, "Frankly, if you weren’t Arthur Windsor, you might have already been served with legal papers instead of sitting in that VIP seat."
From her position on stage, Flora could see Arthur's expression darken, his usually impeccable composure unraveling as he stared at her intently, heralding a storm.
In fact, Flora could not understand Arthur's fixation with Tina, a child who had suddenly become a part of his life. If he truly loved children, numerous women would willingly bear a child for him.
What Flora disclosed laid bare the uncomfortable truths for all to witness, leaving Arthur devoid of any pretense of dignity and unable to claim what was not his in full view of the public.
The venue buzzed with whispers, though Flora Lee could not discern the specifics of the conversations. However, it was clear that the discussions revolved around her and Arthur.
Flora was aware that this incident would fuel gossip, becoming a topic of conversation at social gatherings, accompanied by laughter. However, she did not care about public perception as long she had her daughter back.
"I’ve said my piece, and I apologize for this matter," Flora Lee concluded, bowing deeply, "Aside from the last dress, 'Immaculate', which is a one-off that can be customized but not duplicated, you’re welcome to order any other design from my studio. Each piece is a limited edition, ranging from twenty to thirty-five pieces each. Thank you, everyone, for your presence tonight!"
The audience, initially stunned by the startling revelation, was silent. Moments later, they returned to their senses.
‘Limited editions?’
‘The final piece, that exquisite dress, isn’t available for purchase?’
‘No, I have to act fast!’
The urgency to acquire one of these limited-edition dresses was palpable.
The exclusivity of the event had served as a filter against resellers looking to inflate prices. Those lucky enough to place an order often presented the dresses as gifts to loved ones or business associates, or simply treasured them as personal keepsakes. The possibilities were limitless.
Log in with Google Account
Chapters
Favorite
Settings
