Chapter 19

On the final day of fashion week, Juliet's Broken Wings collection took the closing slot. On the runway, models moved with the steady beat of the music as they showcased the gowns she designed. Black gauze fluttered like broken wings of a butterfly as crystals and pearls glittered under the lights. The deliberate asymmetry and fractured lines stitched back together spoke of a story about pain and rebirth. Backstage, Juliet nervously bit her lip and kept her eyes locked on the audience's reaction. Nate stood beside her and tapped her fingers lightly before gently clasping her hand. Pointing at the end of the runway, he murmured, "Look. That's your work and story out there." When the final piece appeared, the hall fell into a hush. It was a pure-white wedding gown embroidered with countless butterflies. Starting near the hem, the butterflies slowly became whole as they climbed upward. At the bodice was a golden butterfly that had spread its wings and was ready to take flight. "That