Chapter Forty Five
Chapter Forty Five
Celeste’s POV
Light from countless flashing cameras burned my retinas as I stepped out of the cab. They were upon us before Grace could even close the door.
Celine Mars‘ private party seemed more like the event of the century.
We linked arms and pushed through the reporters as they swarmed us, asking questions faster than I could listen. But one made me stumble over my own feet.
“Are either of you the mysterious designer, Rosemary?”
Grace steadied me and kept walking until we joined the flowing line of runway ready guests entering the mansion. We wore simple yet bold cocktail dresses. I noticed several appreciative glances thrown our way.
“How did they know I’d be here?” I whispered.
She surveyed the reporters being held back by security and shook her head in amazement.
“With this crowd, nothing stays private for long.”
Lswallowed, steadying my nerves.
At the massive doors, a lady asked for our names, eyes scanning a tablet.
“Rosemary.” I said, voice even despite my nerves.
She stopped and looked up with wide eyes.
“Please, enjoy the party.” She recovered, gesturing for us to enter.
“I didn’t realize how big of a deal this is.” I said as I spotted a mix of celebrities, politicians and businessmen.
Grace nudged my shoulder, smiling. “We’re here because of you, Rosemary.”
“What now?” I asked, mesmerized by the grandeur all around.
She eyed the champagne and hors d’oeuvres. “Now we enjoy ourselves.”
We chatted and I finally unwinded after working tirelessly these past few days. On top of a second order from Celine and the backlog we were working through, I’d been working on a necklace for Bonnie. Her sixth birthday was coming up.
“Do you have a band aid?” A man smiled goofily at Grace. “Because I scraped my knees falling for you.‘
She narrowed her eyes and deadpanned. “If you don’t back off now, a scraped knee will be the least of your concerns.”
I was surprised he didn’t leave skid marks on the Persian rugs as he fled.
“Damn Grace, that was brutal.”
“I’m just trying to be more prudent.” She said with a casual shrug. “Reece did a number on me.”
I gave her a side hug. “That’s completely understandable.”
She gritted her teeth. “I want to focus on building our business and gaining enough power so that if any scumbag screws with me again, I’ll have the means to make them regret it.”
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Chapter Forty Five
“You really are incredible, you know that?”
“I’m well aware.” She winked.
We were giggling when someone tapped my shoulder.
It was Celine Mars, in the flesh.
“Rosemary, Grace.” She greeted us with an air kiss on both cheeks. “I’m so glad you could attend this little soiree.”
Little? A world renowned musician played a gold trimmed harp in the background.
Celine placed a hand on her pearl necklace.
“Thank you for making this on such short notice. The musgravite set was such a hit at the gala; I just had to wear another one of your pieces tonight.”
I beamed. “I’m pleased you like it. It’s an honor to be here.”
“All my friends loved your work.” She gave me a conspiratorial smile. “I’ll introduce you, but only if you promise to make time for me once you’re up to your ears with orders.”
I could hear my bank account cry with joy.
“Of course, Celine.” I said, winking. “I’m not above showing favoritism.”
She laughed, patting my arm. “Rosemary, you’re a gem.”
Just then, a tall, gray–haired man pulled her into his side.
“What shenanigans are going on in this corner?” He asked, a twinkle in his eye.
“Hello, dear.” She beamed up at him. “Rosemary, Grace, I want you to meet my husband, Brian.”
“Ah, so this is the dynamic duo Celine told me so much about.” He said, stretching a hand.
We shook his hand–it felt like meeting the president.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Brian.” Grace smiled, sniffing but the opportunity.
If Celine could buy a few pieces of jewelry, Brian could buy the entire store.
“Rosemary’s such a talented designer with a unique and refreshing style.” Celine said.
Brian nodded. “I admired your work–my wife shines in anything, but she’s even brighter in your pieces.”
“Oh stop it, you charmer.” She blushed, then turned to my friend. “Grace is the one who introduced me to Rosemary. She hounded me down and didn’t take no for an answer until I accepted their catalogue.”
Brian nodded at us with approval.
“This is the kind of startup I admire: a great product and the brains to get it in front of the right people. I’m impressed enough to consider investing in your studio.”
My eyes met Graces as I suppressed a squeal.
“That’s my cue.” Celine pecked her husband’s cheek. “I’ll leave you to talk business. I think my favorite opera troupe has arrived.”
We discussed expansion strategies with Brian’s potential investment. With the influx of capital he could provide,
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Chapter Forty Five
our business would truly take off.
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Grace politely excused herself to head to the restroom, and Brian glanced around furtively before leaning closer.
“I know my wife has been keeping you busy,” He said in a hushed tone. “But our twentieth anniversary is coming up, and she’d be delighted with another custom piece from you.”
“Anything specific you have in mind?” I asked excitedly.
“This isn’t common knowledge, but Celine got a belly piercing the night we met.”
“A belly ring is unconventional, but thoughtful.” I said, smiling.
Brian scratched his chin. “After twenty years, I know it’s dangerous not to prepare a backup.”
I laughed. “There’s a story, isn’t there?”
Before he could respond, someone ripped me away.
“Why is this gate crasher skulking around Celine’s husband at her very own soiree?” Damien demanded.
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