Chapter 480

"This design is truly remarkable." Wendy Evans traced the jewelry's surface with her fingertips, the agate's smooth texture catching her eye. "The crystal's refraction effect is breathtaking."

She turned to watch the models strutting down the runway, nostalgia flickering in her gaze. "The organizers used similar materials during last season's fashion week. The visual impact was extraordinary."

Penny Anderson immediately understood. Her fingers flew across the tablet as she sent an urgent message to the legal department. The contract template needed to arrive tonight.

Stella Valentine noticed Wendy's lingering gaze on the models' accessories. "The finished pieces require time for polishing," she suggested softly. "Would you like to try them on first?"

"Me?" Wendy touched her short hair in surprise. "That wouldn't be appropriate. Where's Vivian?"

"Vivian's changing into her performance outfit," the makeup artist replied without looking up. "The lighting director needs to test effects."

Stella had already guided Wendy to the chair. "Short hair can make a striking statement." She studied the reflection in the mirror. "Your elegance suits classical styles perfectly."

As makeup brushes swept across Wendy's face, Stella retrieved materials from her kit. Silver threads danced between her fingers, transforming into minimalist hair clips within moments.

When the final accessory was secured, the mirror revealed a woman who seemed to have stepped through time. Wendy stared at her reflection, fingertips trembling as they brushed a tear at her eyelid.

"I'd forgotten..." Her voice cracked. "That I could still look like this."

Stella handed her a tissue. "Career and beauty aren't mutually exclusive."

"But what about love?" Wendy gave a bitter smile. "I don't even have time for dates anymore."

"Too much wit brings sorrow, too deep love shortens life." Stella's voice softened. "Betting everything on romance is dangerous."

Wendy nodded thoughtfully. "Like your designs—each one's a labor of love?"

"At least they don't make my hair fall out." Stella reached into her bag with a laugh when a candy packet suddenly tumbled out.

The rainbow-hued wrappers glittered under the lights. Wendy gasped. "Star Candy? These were discontinued years ago!"

Stella stared at the candy in her palm as memories came flooding back.