Page 18 of Softest Touch
I nod as I release Melinda and give her a quick peck on the lips. “Apparently, Catalina had better things to do,” I say, walking past her to check on the other models. “We'll go without her.” I can't cancel the show; it would jeopardize the entire collection. Melinda pinches the bridge of her nose, and I extend my hand to her. “Come with me.”
She steps closer but then stops. “Give me a second, okay?” Her eyes search for mine and she caresses my cheek. “You've worked so hard to get this collection done, Derek. Don't let this little obstacle block you. Go up there and shine; I'll join you in a bit.”
Inhaling deeply, I feel my disappointment subside. I nod at her before walking toward the stage.
The models start walking out one by one, and I watch the reactions of the entrepreneurs’ taking notes. Time passes quickly, and Melinda is still nowhere to be seen. The last model comes out, and I sigh, waiting a few minutes before making my appearance.
José walks by, watching the final round of models. “I'm really excited about the results.”
“Yeah, it's a pity a piece is missing,” I sigh, disappointed. The models line up on the catwalk, waiting for me to come out to greet and thank everyone.
“Next time, make it a little larger for God’s sake,” Melinda scolds me. I'm about to tell her we'll discuss it later, but as my eyes land on her, my mouth drops open. The white dress, deftly crafted to perfection, embraces her exquisite silhouette as naturally as a second skin. The dainty white straps, meticulously adorned with shimmering Swarovski crystals, drape delicately over her shoulders, imparting an understated elegance without ostentation. The intricately designed corset brings into focus Melinda’s slender waistline, accentuating her alluring figure. Drawing inspiration from the timeless beauty of Athens, the elongated drape of the gown transforms her into a vision of divine splendor, reminiscent of a goddess descended from the heavens. And she is.
“You can't leave it behind. This dress is a part of you.”
“It fits you perfectly,” I gasp, my heart racing in my chest as I extend my hand.
“Yeah, but I have to breathe too,” she complains.
I help her spin around and loosen the strings on her back a bit more. “Better now?”
“Thank God, it’s much better!” She smiles at me as we step out onto the catwalk.
As she struts down the runway, it seems like she does this every day. At the end of the catwalk, she turns toward me, applauding along with the crowd. I kiss her hand, intertwining my fingers with hers as we walk back.
Once we’ve reached the backstage, I take her in my arms and twirl her around. “Thank you.” This was the best surprise ever. It meant the world to me. I can't ever express how grateful I am for her wearing this dress.
“You wanted to ask me to wear it. Why didn't you?” How does she know? This woman never ceases to surprise me.
“I know how overwhelming it can be on the catwalk, and I didn't want you to feel forced.” I stroke her face. “But as always, you did you. Sometimes I think you can really read my mind.”
“Who knows?” She grins and drags me into the hall, where everyone is waiting for me.
While I talk to some of them, I notice Melinda approaching with a group of people.
“Mr. Wilson, congratulations on the collection. It looks fantastic.” The man shakes my hand, but I have no idea who he is.
“Thank you so much.”
Melinda steps by my side, “Derek, this is Sheik Mhardjn and his wife Zahira, and then Mrs. Wuang.”
“Very pleased to meet you.” I shake Mrs. Wuang's hand. She's one of the biggest entrepreneurs with the largest high-fashion chain boutiques.
“I loved your entire collection, but the latest dress is truly amazing.”
I pull Melinda closer. “Thank you, the credit isn't all mine. Melinda helped me create it.”
“Besides modeling, you're also a designer.” Mrs. Wuang smiles at her. “Mr. Wilson, you are a lucky man.”
“Oh, I'm neither.” Melinda shakes her head, her cheeks turning pink.
She's trying to downplay her role, and I won't let her do it. “Melinda is my partner, and she is a designer who is too modest to admit it.”
“Then I hope to see more of your creations.” She hands me her business card. “I would be interested in your collection. Call me if you want to discuss a possible agreement.”
“Thank you, I'll definitely do that.” Watching them leave us to examine our dresses thrills me. Wilson Creations is working hard to showcase our label outside the US and be known in Europe and Asia. We're aiming to be invited to Milan Fashion Week, and Paris. And now, thanks to Melinda, we may have a deal in the UAE and Asia. Please, someone tell me this is not a dream.
Melinda stands in front of me, peering around to ensure no one can hear us. “A designer? Me? Are you out of your mind?”