Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 63

Naomi and Edwin were the kind of folks who couldn't keep a secret. So, when Sylvia decided not to tell them about her competition date, it was only to avoid any unnecessary pomp and circumstance. That left only one person, Warren Garcia.

Just yesterday, he had called her to wish her the best of luck. Little did she expect the surprise he had in store for her today.

Her roommates, unable to contain their excitement, opened the box that had arrived, which revealed a stunning lavender silk gown.

The bodice was adorned with hand-sewn beads, scattered in a seemingly random but perfectly balanced pattern, catching the light and shimmering softly.

Below the waist, the gown flowed into dual layers of the finest silk, one shade deeper than the other, casting an ethereal, dreamlike hue.

"Wow, this dress practically glows even under our dorm's crappy lights. Can you imagine what it would look like on stage? Absolutely dazzling!"

Her roommate's remarks amused Sylvia.

"Stop laughing and get changed now. We've got to do your makeup too."

...

later, Sylvia was being fawned over as if

stunning, Sylvia. Even as a straight woman, I'm falling for you." "Sylvia, you've got this. You're the top

We

headed out. Her roommates had wished to accompany her to the venue, but, being new interns, they couldn't get the time off

encouragement,

minutes later, Sylvia arrived

judge who was a renowned jewelry designer nationwide,

any budding designer to leap into the high-end world of fashion and design, meaning that the knowledge they acquired would be abundant

white gown,

calm, almost aloof, beauty. He played absentmindedly with the ruby ring, his demeanor cool yet

and the princess, always a perfect match, drawing

gaze found Sylvia

guard, Sylvia thought he would restrain himself

regardless of the possibility that the reporters might notice. Was he