Chapter 89

Christina pondered. This didn't make sense. Why were Madge and Derrick heaping such praise on Selma's design? This case was rated SSS. How could Selina, a junior high school dropout, achieve this?

Madge declared, "The design is a success. I'll submit it to headquarters for review."

"Thank you," replied Selina.

"You're welcome," said Madge.

Derrick regarded Selina with newfound respect. She wasn't as simple as they'd thought. Her confidence stemmed from genuine ability. Passing the Cartier collaboration on her first attempt, without modifications, was no small feat. Could this be the designer Trevon personally recruited? Why were there no whispers of her reputation?

Christina's curiosity burned. She desperately wanted to see the design that garnered such acclaim.

"05," Selina said curtly, leaving the office. Christina, eager to uncover Selina's secret, decided to contact Trevon. There was no time to waste.

"Wait for me," Christina called after Selina. Unable to question Madge directly, she hurried after Selina.

Ignoring Selina's rejection, Christina squeezed into the elevator just as the doors were closing. Her thick makeup began to flake.

"Selina, how did you do it?" Christina asked, her eyes filled with intense longing.

Selina rolled her eyes. "If you attempted this, you'd have at most 10% confidence; I have 100%. We're not on the same level."

Undeterred by Selina's dismissal, Christina pressed, "I want to know how you designed it."

"Considering we're relatives, all I can tell you is to go home and write 'talent' a hundred times. Design is about insight and imagination. If you lack natural talent, you need to train harder. My casual designs get approved; your best efforts fail—that's reality," Selina retorted.

The elevator reached the ground floor. Selina exited, ignoring the lethal glare Christina directed at her. Many envied Selina; to Christina, a perceived adversary, even a second of Selina's time felt wasted. Selina, having experienced hardship, would not tolerate betrayal.

Back in the office, Madge and Derrick continued discussing Selina's design. Selina's hand-drawn design wasn't merely a necklace; it depicted a lifelike foreign female model—delicate features, pink sunglasses, a ponytail, and a casual pink denim outfit. The necklace, however, was the true standout. The centerpiece featured the letters "CD" in pink, with a short, robust chain strung with white and pink pearls. The design exuded a sunny, youthful style. Its simplicity and chic style, paired with a coral pink ensemble, created an eye-catching, playful charm.

Gold and diamond necklaces are commonplace; it's the design that captures attention and showcases creativity. Even Madge and Derrick were captivated, a testament to its brilliance.

"Derrick, does it remind you of someone?" Trevon inquired.

Madge asked tentatively, "Angel?"

Derrick replied effortlessly, "Angel. Her hand-drawn designs, her unique models, her mastery of both two- and three-dimensional styles—her artistic skill is remarkable. Her outfits perfectly complement her jewelry designs."

"Since Angel's worldwide fame, every piece has been a bestseller. Her identity remains a mystery, adding to her allure. Many don't even know if Angel is male or female. But I know she's a woman," Madge stated.

Derrick glanced sideways. "Who told you?"

Madge smiled. "A woman's intuition. Many of her designs are distinctly feminine. Remember Angel's first work? No need for excessive diamonds or gold—a simple, yet eye-catching necklace."

"I remember. Like this one, the simple bi-color pearl arrangement creates an exquisite effect," Derrick agreed, recalling the mesmerizing interplay of colors in Angel's debut design. The geometric color expansions were daring.

"A jewelry designer whose creations resonate so strongly with customers is bound to succeed," Madge added.

"Many try to imitate Angel's style, but lose their originality. Emulate her, and you might survive; try to be her, and you'll fail. Many instructors advise students to appreciate, not copy, Angel's work. Otherwise, they'll lose their soul," Derrick explained.

"Angel is a capricious, bold, unparalleled talent—uncatchable. Selina's work has a distinct Angel flair. I don't know if she's deliberately imitating her, but she has talent. Brilliance may have struck gold," Derrick mused.

Derrick's phone rang—it was Trevon.

"Mr. Brady," Derrick answered.

"How did Selina do?" Trevon asked.

"She passed. Madge speaks highly of her work—it has that distinct Angel style, even in the hand-drawn drafts. Mr. Brady, where did you find such talent?"

"She is my wife," Trevon revealed.

Derrick was stunned. Had I misheard?