The room erupted in cheers as Alina concluded her announcement.
Stella was caught by surprise.
âStella, youâre about to hit the big time!â A staff member standing beside Stella gave her elbow a gentle nudge and passed her an iPad.
âLook at this-your name is all over the screen.
They want you to design their clothes.
â
Stella accepted the iPad, her expression one of astonishment.
She hadnât anticipated this turn of events, least of all Alina publicizing her work.
After all, Alina had always maintained a distance from her.
Although Alinaâs demeanor had softened somewhat over time, she remained somewhat distant.
Yet, todayâs gesture-Alina promoting her at a prestigious award ceremony-shattered her preconceived notions of Alina.
Alina wasnât the cold-hearted person Stella had once pegged her to be.
Moved by the gesture, Stellaâs face lit up with a heartfelt smile.
âCongratulations to the best designer of this yearâs award ceremony!â
Stella looked up in confusion as a familiar voice came from beside her.
When she found Matthew standing there, her eyes widened in shock.
He was impeccably dressed in a dark blue suit that accentuated his tall stature and exuded an air of sophistication.
Standing side by side, they looked like a perfect couple.
âWhy are you here?â Stella asked softly, regaining her composure.
Matthew tilted his head and smiled.
âI came to see my wifeâs work.
I must say, Iâm very impressed.
â
While he complimented Alinaâs dress, his gaze lingered on Stella.
The glint in his eyes gave another meaning to his words.
Stellaâs cheeks flushed with a shy rosiness.
âI didnât realize it would turn out this well,â she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Matthew responded with a light chuckle as his arm casually dr@ped over her shoulder.
He leaned in, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered, âLetâs celebrate at home later tonight.
â
Stella turned, locking eyes with him for a fleeting moment.
She instantly understood the hidden meaning behind his words.