The view from up here really was spectacular-Claire had to give it that.
"Right? It reminds me of that old Solenian line-standing at the summit, every other mountain looks small beneath your feet!" Jenny grinned.
A secretary came in, carrying coffee and a cup of bubble tea. Jenny handed the bubble tea to Claire, knowing it was her favorite.
Claire took a grateful sip. "How's the foot traffic lately?"
Since SUNNY had just moved their headquarters to Apex, Claire figured plenty of clients weren't used to it yet. Some people probably still preferred to fly overseas for their luxury shopping rather than believe SUNNY was really now based here.
"Not bad at all. VIA Metropolis has been giving our brand a huge push-so word's spreading fast."
"We've had so many orders this past month, the studio's barely been able to keep up," Jenny added. "That's exactly why I keep bugging you to turn out some new designs!"
"And there's one more client-she's requested you specifically."
That reminder made Jenny narrow her eyes a little, silently noting that Claire still hadn't handed in any new sketches.
Claire knew she was behind, but it couldn't be helped her coursework lately had been relentless. "Actually, I did a couple of sketches while I was traveling-think they'll work for the fall line?"
"Let's see!" The moment Jenny heard there were finished drafts, she dropped the lecture altogether.
Claire pulled up the photos on her phone-she'd left the originals at home this morning. Jenny scrolled through both sets of designs and nodded, clearly pleased.
"I mixed in some traditional motifs from Montara's local tribes," Claire added, wanting to make clear her trip hadn't just been a vacation.
See? Not just for fun after all.
Jenny didn't waste energy bantering-she simply handed Claire her next assignment: design a custom gown for the client who'd requested her by name.
"She's attending her daughter's coming-of-age gala at the end of August. She'd wanted you to design a dress for her daughter, too, but I told her you might not have time."
"So, if you're up for it, take on both gowns. If you're too busy, at least design something for the mother."
The story had moved Jenny—this woman was a single mother who'd raised her daughter entirely on her own Her ex-husband had left as soon as their child was bom. Hed never paid a penny in child support.
But this woman hadn't just managed on her own she'd built a successful children's products brand from scratch. Now she was well off, and she wanted to throw her daughter a glamorous debutante's ball, to show her how much she was loved. She
her how daughter to know that
wanted her
even if her father didn't care, her mother would love her twice as much.
Jenny shared the story with Claire, who listened in focus.
"So, she's strong-willed, determined, and doesn't give in easily, right?"
Claire decided she'd have to meet her in person. Only then could she settle on the
right direction for her designs.
When Claire didn't refuse the commission outright, Jenny finally relaxed. She'd been worrying Claire might be too overwhelmed to take it on. The studio had other designers, sure, but none of them had Claire's skill or her reputation.
After all, Claire was the one everyone was waiting for.
Jenny looked at her like she was some kind of lucky charm.
Claire rolled her eyes, deciding not to comment.
"You've got interviews tomorrow, right?" Jenny switched gears with a sudden glance.
"Yeah." Claire sank into the sofa, snacking on the fruit platter the secretary had just set down.
Jenny wasn't the sort to chase after luxury, but Claire was still young, and Jenny wanted to give her a good environment—a fully equipped office, the best amenities, generous perks.
"Then wear one of our summer pieces, all right?" Jenny said. "Great chance to promote SUNNY."
As lead designer, it was time for Claire to step up and help showcase their latest work.