Chapter 132: A Pair of Foolish Persons
Maggie lifted her gaze, noticing Vanessa holding an item—more armlet than bracelet, though easily functioning as either. The entire armlet was adorned with detailed ancient mythology symbols, a yellow gem crafted to resemble a sun surrounded by small diamonds that radiated a dazzling glow. This sun design was nestled within a curved border, from which several dangling tassels hung, adding an exotic touch.
Though stunning, the design wasn't flawless. Maggie understood Annie's intent, but would have chosen different gemstones.
"It's adequate," she replied gently, "but even with the gem's high quality, it doesn't quite capture the fiery passion of the sun god; it lacks vitality."
Vanessa laughed. "Maggie, do you really think Annie's designs aren't up to par with yours? Creating these pieces must have taken immense effort; criticizing them seems disrespectful."
Vanessa couldn't fathom Maggie's thoughts. Clearly intelligent, Maggie seemed preoccupied with her relationship with Joseph. Offering criticism in a designer's own store is ill-advised; Annie, famed for her defiant demeanor and nonchalant approach, is no exception. While the designer's efforts deserve respect, displayed work is subject to scrutiny. "Everyone has different aesthetic tastes," Maggie said candidly, tightening her lips and glancing at Joseph, "Ms. Brown admires him, but I do not."
Vanessa felt angry; Maggie repeatedly embarrassed her and disparaged the designer's work in her own store. If Annie heard this, how could they persuade her to join Luster Corporation? Vanessa had hoped to guide Maggie toward a broader perspective, but now saw her as utterly unreasonable. Securing Annie would highlight the Camerons' competence; their failure, however, stemmed not from any deficiency in their efforts, but Maggie's disruptive influence. Vanessa mused, If there's a reckoning, I can't be blamed for this. The more Maggie stirred up trouble, the better. Then, when negotiating with another designer
Joseph's expression darkened. Bringing Maggie was a mistake; he should have handled this alone. Maggie's actions risked making him look incompetent.
"What Maggie said makes sense," Vanessa said gently. "Perhaps you and Annie have different aesthetics; you're not a professional designer, so your perspective is understandable." She apologized to Emily, adding, "Sorry, my friend doesn't understand these things very well."
Emily smiled politely but glanced at Maggie several times.
"What about this?" Vanessa asked, pointing to a green sapphire ring. It continued Annie's style, crafted with a folded-paper-like carving technique creating a three-dimensional butterfly knot. Drop-shaped green gems were set on either side, creating a lively, bold effect.
"It's okay," Maggie said, "but as a buyer, I'd prefer the butterfly bow slightly more folded and wrinkled, bringing the gems closer for more character." She knew Vanessa was provoking her, wanting more criticism. But Vanessa didn't know Annie, though stubborn, was willing to listen to opinions she resonated with, as are many designers. Vanessa likely wouldn't understand this.
Maggie, after examining the ring, shared her candid thoughts. Vanessa chuckled, sarcasm in her eyes. Maggie's dislike of a few items would be understandable, but her criticism of every piece seemed intentional. "Maggie, your design philosophy doesn't align with Ms. Annie's. You may not appreciate her designs, but I quite like them," Vanessa said, innocently picking up a piece and praising it earnestly.
Joseph's expression softened. "Vanessa is right. Choose some jewelry for yourself, your mother, grandmother, and Sierra."
Vanessa was overjoyed. Her family's background and resources were obstacles; even with Madam Adam's support, the Adams weren't fools and wouldn't give her money recklessly. Joseph's support was different.
"Since she doesn't like it, let's forget about it," Joseph said calmly, glancing at Maggie.
Maggie smirked, regarding them as fools. Annie's dissatisfaction with her own work, yet they praised it so much. If Annie were happy, she’d lost her mind.
"Emily," Vanessa said, "this jewelry isn't for sale, but I love it. Could you ask the designer to make an exception?" She had already chosen several pieces for herself, Olivia, Madam Cameron, and others. Emily hesitated, looking awkward.
Vanessa added, "I truly appreciate Annie's design philosophy." Emily nodded. Another sales representative took over.
Ignoring them, Maggie examined other showcases. Annie was bold and innovative; Maggie could gain insights from her designs. "This is nice," she remarked, admiring a classic ruby necklace.