Chapter 3 3

It's been two months since my marital crisis but with each day, I did what I like best – crafting out unique designs.

I was scrolling through my latest fabric designs on my laptop when my phone vibrated, indicating a notification. I reluctantly picked up the phone, and it was an email. I read through and it showed that I have been selected to work with an international agency as their fashion designer.

I wondered if I was dreaming. I dialed Aunt Olivia's number to share the news and she answered almost immediately.

"Hi, Aunt Olivia, I got an email from an international agency," I uttered, with excitement visible in my voice. I added, "I know you are behind it. I can't thank you enough."

"Sarah, if I don't do it for you, who will?" Aunt Olivia said happily on the other end. "I recommended you to a client of mine who was organizing a show and that is it. Ensure you send a reply indicating you have accepted the offer."

"I will do that right now."

"That reminds me, I saw Debby a few hours ago and she was pained about how your marriage with her brother ended." Aunt Olivia cleared her throat. "I made it known to her that you were over it, she shouldn't be worried."

I sighed, "Thanks, aunt."

Was it so easy to get over such a thing? I appreciate that Debby always had my best interest at heart but I hope she understands that it is for the best.

After the call, I sent a reply to the email. [It is good to hear from you, I am delighted to work with you on this project. Thank you.]

Almost immediately, a call from an unknown number came in. anxiously, I answered.

"Hi, ma'am Sarah. Sorry, I don't know whether to address you as a Mrs. or a Miss."

Does the appellation matter? I said to myself.

"Sarah is fine, who am I on to?" I said professionally as I crossed my leg over the other.

"I am reaching out to you concerning the email of the job you accepted as the fashion designer for our brand."

"Oh! My pleasure."

"So, you have to be with us soon. I will send you the address and other important details via your email. Your feeding and accommodation will be taken care of."

It was a big opportunity for me. I couldn't hide my joy, it would be a medium for my brand to be projected to a larger audience. With this I know, I will be able to fend for myself and my fetus that I am patiently waiting to see. I felt whole and fulfilled.

Ten minutes after the call ended, I got the address. [City Intercontinental Hotel, California. 22nd January, 2023.]

I sighed, reality dawning on me that I had a lot to achieve.

So fast, three weeks ran by. Using one of Aunt Olivia's cars, I drove to City Intercontinental Hotel. I couldn't explain the joy I felt. Indeed, old things had passed away and all things had become new. I placed my hand on my abdomen as I felt my fetus racing about.

Some hours later, I halted at a skyscraper. I picked up my bag and got out of the car. I managed to watch my steps as I didn't want to look naïve and mesmerized as I walked into the luxurious abode. I pulled my phone out and dialed the number that reached out to me weeks back.

"Hello, I have arrived. What next?" I asked as my eyes ran through the numerous doors.

Then the feminine voice at the other end replied. "Someone will be with you in a jiffy."

I hung up.

Just then, a lady dressed in a black short gown and pink low shoes approached me.

"Hi, you must be ma'am Sarah." She said with a bright smile.

In response, I gave a nod.

She continued, "Please for confirmation purposes, show me the invitation email you got."

"Sure," I uttered and showed her the invitation email I got.

"Perfect, come with me." The lady uttered, leading the way.

Soon, we entered into a large room, everything in the room screamed luxury and wealth. What I saw outside was just the tip of the iceberg. I was offered a seat in the opposite direction of a man and a woman, and the lady who ushered me in left.

"Welcome, Sarah. I am Josh. You'll be working with me and my team on this project for the next three months." The man said with a welcoming smile.

Attentively, I fixed my eyes on the man. "Thank you, I promise to give my best input in this project."

"We all will be dwelling in the room reserved for us here till when the project is completed. This is because of impromptu meetings which could come up any time of the day. And we also need a quiet place to work effectively." Josh said.

I felt I could work effectively from home, but since it was an opportunity I couldn't afford to lose, I agreed to their terms and conditions.

He continued, "It doesn't mean you don't have a social life. Be available when needed.

The quiet woman suddenly spoke. "Let's see some of your designs." I can't deny the fact that though the woman looked a bit old, she commanded a superb and eloquent aura.

I showed them the designs I had on my laptop and they were impressed with it. They also made it known that my working area and all that I need have been provided in the room reserved for me. The treatment made me go down memory lane, when was the last time I got this kind of treatment?

For hours, we deliberated on so many things. With each passing hour, my confidence in my ability and knowledge grew rapidly. I was in the midst of people who were well-grounded in their various fields and their suggestions and contributions, excellence was inevitable.

The meeting widened my horizon, to them it might just be an ordinary meeting that was scheduled but for me, it is my stepping stone to the next level.