Chapter 134: Unsatisfactory Works

Annie glanced quickly at Vanessa before returning her attention to her animated conversation with Maggie.

"Are you proposing the addition of pearls? Pearls hadn't occurred to me. I can't even imagine the impact it would make!"

Vanessa's sharp eyes gleamed, like a hungry predator's, as she watched Maggie.

Unable to suppress a smile, Maggie replied, "Why not give it a shot?"

Feeling a profound connection with Maggie, Annie asked, "What are your thoughts on incorporating the ring? Would that be something you'd consider?"

"Oh, indeed! I recall mentioning that the bow could be fashioned in a more three-dimensional style, perhaps like this"

Despite having been present for some time, Annie remained wholly absorbed in her task, swiftly picking up a pen and sketching on the draft paper with fervor, oblivious to whether Vanessa and Joseph were observing her.

They conversed for nearly thirty minutes. During this time, Vanessa and Joseph's expressions gradually darkened, reflecting their growing concern. Joseph, however, appeared more composed than Vanessa. His demeanor reflected assurance, as the evident rapport between Annie and Maggie suggested promising prospects for success. He believed signing either woman would be a wise move.

As their conversation continued without pause, Vanessa felt compelled to interject. "I must admit, I didn't anticipate Ms. Annie being so accommodating. However, I firmly believe that design is inherently subjective and personal. Ms. Annie should trust her instincts and remain steadfast in her vision, regardless of external influences."

Upon hearing Vanessa's words, Maggie and Annie simultaneously turned to her. Their attention was fully captured.

Maggie smirked, mischief twinkling in her eyes.

It was hard to say whether Vanessa was genuinely naive or merely pretending. She admitted the correctness of her statement, yet it was clear Annie sought change, and Vanessa was discouraging her. Wasn't that foolish?

Annie's enthusiasm waned after the interruption. It was as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over her, leaving her feeling unfulfilled and in a poor mood.

"Mr. Cameron, you came to invite me to join the Luster Corporation, is that right?" she asked directly. Joseph immediately perked up and straightened.

"Absolutely, Ms. Annie. Our company highly values innovative design styles and respects your design philosophy. That's why we're extending this invitation to collaborate and give your creations greater exposure."

His words were cut short by Annie's interjection: "Sorry, Mr. Cameron, I did consider your proposal. However, this meeting made me realize that partnering with the Luster Corporation isn't the right fit for me."

After a pause, Annie continued, "Of course, this is partly because Maggie is in charge of the Luster Corporation."

Joseph was stunned, while Vanessa asked, "Why, Ms. Annie?"

"Given our differing aesthetics and design philosophies, I must respectfully decline your invitation," Annie declared.

Vanessa's anxiety became apparent. "But why decline? We deeply admire your work. Are you worried about potential criticism or disrespect following the event? Please rest assured, even though Maggie is the Camerons' daughter, she won't…" Vanessa abruptly stopped, realizing her mistake.

Moments earlier, Annie had unequivocally stated she would only agree if Maggie were in charge of the event. But why?

Annie immediately explained.

"I apologize, Ms. Brown. The reason the booth you admire isn't open for public purchase is because the designs showcased are all my unsatisfactory works. They didn't meet my standards and didn't impress me; therefore, they're not for sale." Vanessa stood motionless, staring at Annie in astonishment.

What did she say? Unsatisfactory works?

Trying to muster a smile, Vanessa exclaimed, "You must be kidding! How can that be?"

Unfortunately, Annie's face remained devoid of humor.

"Why display work you're not satisfied with?" Vanessa asked urgently, clearly flustered.

"Because even if it's unsatisfactory, it's not entirely without merit. It simply hasn't achieved the effect I desire. There's a saying: 'It's a pity to discard tasteless food'," Annie replied calmly. "So, I exhibited them to gather inspiration and feedback to refine them and achieve the desired outcome."

Vanessa managed a strained smile, feeling her facial muscles tighten. She was mistaken. This exhibition booth wasn't an exclusive, high-end display, but rather a collection of flawed products she wasn't content with. The idea of squandering a rare opportunity by investing in numerous flawed, high-cost items left her unable to smile.

Joseph's expression shifted from confusion to conflict. He instinctively glanced at Maggie, who remained impassive. He wondered: Does she know?

"If I could regularly encounter clients who appreciate my designs like this, I'm confident I could overcome barriers and produce even more remarkable designs," Annie said optimistically. She smiled at Maggie.

Softly, Maggie remarked, "Your designs have a distinctive flair. You're simply too critical of yourself. The pieces you deem unsatisfactory are coveted by many." Annie sighed.

However, these words stung Vanessa. They had invested heavily, only to receive nothing in return. Not only had she failed to win Annie's approval, but she had also praised the wrong aspects of her work.

Vanessa pressed her lips together, her expression fluctuating constantly. She couldn't understand why items she found appealing were deemed worthless by Annie or labeled as failures she refused to sell. Being branded as a failure only intensified her frustration. How could she return and proudly wear these items now? The ridicule she would face if others discovered she'd purchased designs the designer herself despised was unbearable.

"Maggie has always shown great talent in design. Ms. Annie, if you're willing to join Luster Corporation, you could collaborate closely with her. Moreover, at the Cameron Group, we have many outstanding jewelry designers. You might consider signing with us for a year. Immersing yourself in the culture and customs of Aquapolis could also be rewarding." Joseph hesitated only briefly, unwilling to dwell on past regrets, and resolved to use Maggie to forge a closer connection with Annie.

Maggie saw through his scheme, a glint of frostiness in her eyes. Not long ago, he had criticized her for being stubborn and naive, yet now he was prepared to exploit her. Well, that was typical of him.