As planned, at 1 PM, we ran through the final models for the show. The models checked their outfits and accessories, then did a trial walk down the runway at the company studio. I knew Caz’s meeting should be wrapping up soon, so I was eager to update her with the latest report.

"Hey Elle, Caz wants to see you in her office," Max called out.

"Okay, I’ll be right there," I replied, quickly assigning a few tasks to the assistants before grabbing the report and heading to Caz's cabin.

I knocked on Caz's door and stepped inside. "Moreau, is the report ready?" she asked, barely looking up from her laptop.

"Yes, Caz, it’s—"

"Did you mail the itinerary?"

"Yes—"

"Sent the design catalogue to the editor?"

"Ye—"

"You can leave."

I hesitated, hoping to get her attention. "Actually, I wanted you to check the arrangements once."

Caz didn’t look up, still typing away. "Moreau, I don’t have time for this. You’re paid to handle these things."

"I get it, but just once—"

She shot me a sharp glare before I could finish. "Moreau, you know how I work. I’ll only look at the final setups. Don’t bother me until everything is done."

I sighed, feeling defeated. "Okay, Caz." I turned to leave, closing the door quietly behind me.

As I walked back to my cabin, I couldn’t help but wonder why she was always so cold. Just once, I wished we could have a normal conversation—like a junior designer asking for help from the head of design.

As I walked back to my cabin, I couldn’t shake the thought of Caz. Why was she breathing so heavily while typing? Was she angry? God, who could even make her angry in this company? Whoever it was, they were probably in for a rough time.

I glanced at my watch and realized it was already past work hours. I had to go on that blind date my parents had set up. With a sigh, I grabbed my things and headed out, knowing I couldn’t put it off any longer.

…………………………………

Le Jardin d'Étoiles is one of the most charming cafés in Paris, famous for its rich coffee and mouthwatering quiche. With its cozy décor, warm lighting, and a rooftop view of the bustling streets, the café exudes a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere. As I waited, I checked the time again.

7:20 PM. Where is he? He was supposed to be here at 6:45. Does he even know this is a blind date? The whole concept is a mess—no way to communicate, no idea what the person looks like.

Just as I was about to leave, a man in his late twenties walked in.

"Elise?" he asked, his voice pulling me back.

"Yeah, you must be Zacharie," I replied.

"Just call me Zack," he said, offering an apologetic smile. "Sorry I’m late. Please, sit."

We both sat, and I waited for him to explain his tardiness.

"I got stuck at work," he said, running a hand through his hair. "You know how it is with managing accounts—some number errors, had to fix those."

I studied him as he spoke—tall, well-dressed, with an easy smile. He seemed polite enough. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad. We continued to talk about ourselves and ordered some food too. As I was finishing my coffee Zacharie spoke.

"So, what do you do, Elise?" he asked, his question pulling me back to the moment.

"I’m a Junior Designer at ALMARE," I said, a sense of pride in my voice.

Then, I heard it—a soft scoff.

"Is something funny?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

“Oh, nothing, Elise. It’s just that your job seems like child’s play,” Zacharie chuckled, his tone laced with mockery.

I froze. What did he just say? Does he think designing clothes is child’s play?
“Excusez-moi, quoi?” I shot back, narrowing my eyes.

“Don’t get me wrong,” he continued, clearly enjoying himself. “I just think anyone can design outfits. Why would anyone even hire people for that? I mean, if you just program your preferences into a machine, it would probably create better designs anyway.” He added another scoff for good measure.

The audacity. My gut screamed, Elise, give it back to him.
I plastered a sarcastic smile on my face and asked sweetly, “What makes you say that, Zacharie?”

He didn’t seem to catch the warning in my tone. “It’s just common sense,” he replied, shrugging again.

“Well, here’s the thing, Zacharie,” I began, my words slow and deliberate. “when someone designs something, it’s more than just shapes and colors—it carries culture and a story. People feel that. Machines? They don’t tell stories. And honestly, I doubt anyone wants zeroes and ones stitched into their clothes.” My voice dripped with sarcasm.

I leaned back, giving him a moment to process before continuing. “Speaking of machines, though,” I added with a casual shrug, “I’m curious why your company hired you to manage accounts. By your logic, wouldn’t machines do a better job? I mean, they’d tally the numbers perfectly—no errors, no missed deadlines. I bet your bosses would love that.”

His smirk disappeared, his face flushing as he fumbled for words that didn’t come. I leaned back, satisfied. Good work, Elise.

“Well, Zacharie, it was nice meeting you,” I said, gathering my things. “But I think we’re done here. Don’t worry about the bill—this one’s on me.” I smiled politely, turned on my heel, and walked out of the café.

Outside, I felt the adrenaline ebbing, replaced by doubt. Did I go too far? I shook my head. No. He started it.

“Miss! Miss!” a voice called, breaking through my thoughts.

I turned and saw a young woman walking toward me. Her smooth brown hair flowed in the breeze, and she carried herself with an easy grace.

“Yes, can I help you?” I asked as she approached.

“Sì, volevo dire che…” she began in hesitant Italian, then switched to English. “I’m sorry—I wanted to say that what you did back there was… amazing.” Her eyes sparkled with admiration.

I chuckled, brushing off the compliment. “It was nothing. I just stood up for what I love.”

Her smile widened. “So, you work in fashion?”

“Yes, I do,” I said, extending my hand. “Hi, I’m Elise.”

“Gabriella,” she replied, shaking my hand warmly. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and for the first time that day, I felt a genuine smile spread across my face.

✨ New Character Unlocked! 🔥

The wait is over—Chapter 2 is finally here! 📖💃

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Question of the Day: What do you think of Zacharie? Did Elise handle things well? And of course—spill your thoughts on Gabriella! 👀✨

More drama, more twists, and more passion coming soon—stay tuned! 🔥❤️

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