Chapter 22: The Grand Reveal

The day had arrived.

The fashion show.

Months of hard work, sleepless nights, and relentless determination had led to this moment.

Adhya stood at the edge of the backstage, her heart pounding.

The venue was magnificent, transformed from the unfinished chaos she had first seen into a breathtaking masterpiece.

Golden chandeliers cast a warm glow over the grand runway, reflecting off the mirrored floor. Rows of chairs lined either side, filled with celebrities, critics, and industry elites. The air buzzed with anticipation, camera flashes, and murmured conversations.

Behind the scenes, models moved like poetry in motion, dressed in Adhya's designs—designs that had almost been stolen.

But tonight?

They would belong only to her.

She took a deep breath, fingers clutching the headset as her team ran final checks.

And then—

The lights dimmed.

The music started.

The first model stepped onto the runway, and Adhya held her breath.

The collection was a masterpiece.

It started with soft pastels—flowing fabrics, intricate embroidery, and delicate beading that shimmered under the lights. The audience watched in rapt attention, their eyes following every step, every movement.

As the music shifted, so did the designs.

The pastel hues melted into bold, powerful colors.

Crimson. Midnight blue. Emerald green.

The dresses became more structured, sharp cuts mixed with ethereal drapes, a perfect blend of strength and grace.

Each piece was a statement.

Each model carried Adhya's vision.

And when the final outfit—a breathtaking silver gown with hand-embroidered detailing, a perfect fusion of tradition and modern elegance—graced the runway...

The crowd erupted.

Applause filled the venue.

The cameras flashed wildly.

Adhya stood frozen, her chest tight.

It was a success.

She had done it.

Her hands trembled as the models took their final walk. The music softened, the lights brightened.

And then—

It was her turn.

The announcer's voice rang through the speakers.

"And now, the woman behind this spectacular collection—Adhya Chauhan!"

Her breath hitched.

She wasn't used to this—being the center of attention.

But before she could overthink it, someone grabbed her hand.

She turned—

And there was Reyan.

His dark eyes locked onto hers. Calm. Steady. Proud.

He didn't say anything.

He just squeezed her hand.

And somehow, that was enough.

With a deep breath, Adhya stepped onto the runway, her heels clicking against the floor as she walked forward.

The applause grew louder.

She could see her parents, Aarav, her friends—cheering for her.

Her eyes flickered to the front row, where she spotted the competitors—the ones who had tried to steal her work.

They looked furious.

She smiled.

And then—

She turned to Reyan.

He was still watching her.

Still holding her hand.

And as the curtains closed, as the night turned into a celebration, as champagne glasses clinked and praises filled the air—

She realized something.

She had won.

Not just the show.

But something else entirely.