Chapter 171: Janet's Provocative Look

Hannah turned, glaring at Susan. "Hush, it's about to begin," she hissed. Susan wrinkled her nose in displeasure.

Fortunately, the host's voice boomed from the stage, capturing everyone's attention. "Thanks for coming to Celina's fashion show this season! We'll be presenting newly designed high-end purses, gowns, casual wear, and fancy dresses..." he announced with passion.

Following the opening remarks, the models took to the runway. "To begin, we present this year's staple vogue purses, designed by Anthony, our lead designer in the bags and purses department. He's masterfully blended fashion and exotic elements. This saddle-shaped purse, showcased by our first model, features a clean cut and handmade embroidery—simple yet chic in exotic style..."

The host continued his enthusiastic product introductions. Meanwhile, Susan had switched seats with Rose and now sat beside Hannah. Whispering excitedly, she said, "I'm here to pick out wedding things! Any suggestions? I probably won't listen, but do tell me!" Her joy over her upcoming wedding was palpable.

Hannah, however, ignored Susan's exuberance. After all, this wasn't the wedding she had envisioned.

"Next, our staple couture gowns. First, a new creation by our young genius, Kyara, featuring bold colors and exquisite patterns—luxurious and dignified… And now, let's welcome Miss Janet Burke, formerly Celina's lead model…making her first return to the runway. Welcome!"

The host's impressive voice heightened the excitement, creating a dramatic moment. All eyes were on Janet, who walked the runway with charisma, surrounded by other models.

"Who?" Susan asked, a flicker of familiarity in her eyes.

"Thomas's ex-girlfriend," Hannah replied, her gaze fixed on Janet, who looked stunning. Yet, something was different from her demeanor at Celina's gown shop; she appeared haughtier, her manipulative temperament laced with arrogance under the spotlight.

Janet walked with a condescending air, stopping before Hannah and smirking down the runway. The dazzling lights, however, obscured her view; it was a deliberate display for Hannah.

Noticing Janet's malicious glare, Susan frowned. "What happened between you two?" She recognized the look was directed at Hannah, even though several people sat within Janet's line of sight.

Hannah found Susan perplexing; a genius one moment, a bit silly the next. "And," Hannah admitted, "she was also Oscar's ex-girlfriend."

Oscar, sitting beside Hannah, turned to give her a look, but she ignored him.

Susan gasped. "No way!"

"Shh," Hannah hushed, covering Susan's mouth. Susan's eyes widened until Hannah released her, allowing her to regain composure.

"What? She's Oscar's ex-girlfriend? No wonder I sensed that dangerous aura!" Susan exclaimed. "Could this woman possibly lower her voice when speaking ill of someone nearby?"

"I bet she still loves him!" Susan declared confidently.

Hannah nodded. This explained Janet's antagonism. Tonight's actions seemed designed to sabotage Hannah's work with Celina and to bask in the spotlight.

Hannah watched impassively as Janet continued her walk, the host's voice booming, "Thank you again, Miss Janet Burke!"

"Hannah, be careful with that woman," Susan warned.

Hannah remained unconcerned. Oscar's marriage to her had been loveless. Even if he reconciled with Janet, it wouldn't affect her. What angered her was Janet's deliberate interference; she would retaliate.

"Now, for tonight's grand finale: Celina's limited-edition couture gowns, designed by Crane. Departing from her usual style, she's chosen pure white as the main color…" The host continued enthusiastically, "...the theme is Friendship. Inspired by a friend's upcoming wedding, Crane created these gowns to express her best wishes."

Susan whispered to herself, "That's why they look like wedding gowns! I'm so jealous of her friend! Crane designed official couture gowns for her wedding! Oh my gosh, this is the most dramatic thing in the fashion scene!"

Hannah smiled subtly.

"Oh my god! This one's gorgeous!" Susan exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement. "Hey, I like that one too! God help me, I love them all! I think I'm going broke!"

Suddenly, Janet, who had just been on stage, stood before Susan, blocking her view. "Could I take this seat?" she asked Theodore, who sat beside Oscar.

Theodore chuckled, glancing at Oscar before standing. "Sure, I need to use the restroom anyway."