Chapter 321
Chapter 321:
An unexpected weight settled in Gabriela’s chest, like a stone dropping into still water, sending ripples of unnamed emotion through her core. She forced the feeling aside and plunged back into her project. Romance held no place in her practical world — earning money demanded her complete attention.
Seven days later, her architectural masterpiece stood complete. Farley and Ken circled the model in stunned admiration.
“It’s absolutely breathtaking! Gabriela, this would dominate any competition p>
Gabriela raised her eyebrows with unmistakable pride. When she committed to excellence, mediocrity became impossible.
Farley inquired, “Should we arrange the meeting with Mr. McCoy now p>
“No need to rush — tomorrow will suffice p>
Wesley’s earlier praise echoed in her memory, and she couldn’t resist capturing photographs from every conceivable angle to send him.
𝘗𝘋𝗙ѕ 𝗈𝗇
Wesley’s response arrived within seconds. “Impressive work p>
His economical reply revealed nothing of his true thoughts — perhaps pressing business demanded his attention. Disappointment deflated Gabriela’s earlier excitement.
Rather than pursue Wesley further, she forwarded the photographs to Mason instead. “Mr. Garner, I need your honest assessment — where would this piece rank in your club’s competition p>
Her sleepless nights had been calculated preparation. Mason’s exclusive…
The model club was launching a competition in two days — members would unveil their most treasured creations, battling for a $200,000 prize and a coveted championship medal.
Mason’s response arrived swiftly. “The finished piece is absolutely extraordinary p>
A second message followed immediately. “If this weren’t destined for Bradly, I’d make you an offer you couldn’t refuse p>
The photographs alone had bewitched him. Witnessing the actual model would likely prove overwhelming. For these affluent collectors, prize money remained secondary — claiming a trophy for eternal bragging rights provided the true intoxication. Like master anglers, the specific catch mattered less than the exhilarating rush of victory itself.
While Gabriela coordinated tomorrow’s meeting with Bradly through Mason, Wesley remained transfixed by his silent phone screen. Thirty minutes had crawled past without a single message from Gabriela. Irritation prickled beneath his controlled exterior. He had offered genuine praise — yet she’d vanished without acknowledgment?
Gabriela remained oblivious to Wesley’s expectant vigil. After she finalized arrangements with Mason, exhaustion finally claimed her, driving her toward a desperately needed shower and sleep. Weeks of relentless work had drained her reserves completely. The moment her body surrendered to relaxation, unconsciousness swept her away.
The following day, Mason arranged Gabriela’s meeting with Bradly at Horizon Club. Bradly had sworn to Fiona that Gabriela would never earn his cooperation. However, discovering her ability to craft museum-quality handmade models had shattered his resolve entirely. He’d eventually enlisted Mason as intermediary, secretly arranging this clandestine encounter.
Gabriela transported her masterpiece to the club for their crucial meeting. Within the hushed privacy of their reserved room, Bradly’s expression ignited upon glimpsing the model.
Disbelief colored his voice. “Miss Haynes, you truly created this entirely by hand p>
“Absolutely,” Gabriela nodded.
She then launched into a detailed explanation of her intricate construction process. Bradly showered her with effusive praise.
He’d suspected the photographs might have been digitally enhanced, but reality surpassed every expectation.
The building’s deep brown foundation merged steampunk’s cutting-edge technological aesthetic with profound traditional influences, birthing a mesmerizing artwork that commanded absolute attention. Every miniature figure possessed startling vitality and authenticity. The multi-tiered chambers even featured working illumination, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
“This is absolutely magnificent!” Bradly circled the model repeatedly, searching unsuccessfully for any imperfection. Desire consumed him — he ached to claim this treasure for his personal collection immediately.
His promise to Fiona evaporated like morning mist. How could mere friendship compete with his burning passion for extraordinary craftsmanship?