Chapter 540
Chapter 540:
Before Yelena could respond, Frieda hurriedly added, “Don’t worry. If you take me to Dr. Yancy, I’ll pay you.” Her urgency betrayed her fear that Yelena might refuse. Pausing for a moment, Frieda continued, “In addition, I’m willing to collaborate with your company and even let you design jewelry for me p>
Yelena was taken aback by Frieda’s words, especially since Frieda had a reputation for being unyielding. “You don’t have to go that far,” Yelena said with quiet confidence. “I’m certain I can meet your standards p>
Frieda’s interest was piqued. “Oh? You sound sure of yourself. But I must say, I’ve been quite let down by the Harris Group. For such a big company, their designers are unimpressive—their work feels outdated and uninspired p>
Yelena smiled lightly. “You’re not wrong about the others. But I’m not like them p>
Frieda chuckled. “Bold words. You’re quite a character.” She doubted Yelena’s abilities, assuming her confidence was misplaced arrogance.
Yelena chose not to argue. She knew the designs would speak for themselves.
Yelena retrieved the design sketches she had collaborated on with Tessa. She had created the initial drafts, while Tessa refined them to perfection. The concept was important, but the refinement brought it to life. Tessa’s talent was undeniable—a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Yelena firmly believed that true brilliance would always find a way to shine.
Handing the sketches to Frieda, Yelena explained, “When we spoke earlier, you mentioned your fondness for Endless Summer, the hydrangea with its dreamy gradient blue hues. I used its delicate petals as inspiration for the theme. The collection includes eight pieces: a tiara, necklace, earrings, brooch, bracelet, bangle, ring, and anklet p>
She pointed to the drawings. “To capture the flower’s essence, I combined sapphires and pearls, arranging them to mirror the delicate petals of Endless Summer.” The designs were mesmerizing, the gradient hues of blue coming together to create a stunning floral motif. Each piece radiated elegance and originality.
Frieda, who had initially dismissed Yelena’s abilities, was now utterly captivated. The intricate beauty and creativity of the designs left her speechless. She had never seen anything so exquisite. Frieda herself was taken by the designs, and she believed her daughter would be equally enamored.
“Wow, they’re stunning,” Frieda murmured in awe. Her daughter approached with their coffee and froze at the sight of the sketches. Though young, Frieda’s daughter was perceptive. She had already noticed the subtle dynamic between her mother and Yelena. Sensing tension earlier, she had intentionally lingered away after being sent to fetch coffee, keeping a watchful eye from a distance. When she saw the atmosphere improve, she decided it was the right time to step in.
Her gaze landed on Yelena’s designs, leaving her speechless.
“Sweetheart, what do you think?” Frieda asked, regaining her composure.
“I love them,” her daughter replied, her voice brimming with admiration.
Yelena smiled and asked, “Is there anything you think could be improved? I’d be happy to revise them p>
Both Frieda and her daughter spoke at the same time, “No need p>
They exchanged a smile, their mutual satisfaction evident.
“It’s perfect as it is. Nothing needs changing,” Frieda declared firmly.
Perhaps worried Yelena might reconsider, Frieda wasted no time signing the contract.
Before leaving, Yelena handed over her business card. With their work complete, she and Tessa left the meeting. As they walked away, Tessa pinched her cheek. “Ouch! I really thought I was dreaming back there p>
Yelena chuckled. “You need to have more confidence in our work p>
“I do, but… everyone talks about how picky Frieda is. I thought…” Tessa trailed off, her laughter turning a little sheepish. “You’re right, though,” she continued with a grin. “It’s not that she’s too picky—it’s that most people aren’t good enough p>
Yelena nodded. “Exactly. Now you understand p>
Tessa’s face lit up, but as they walked, her smile gradually faded, replaced by a look of concern as a thought crossed her mind.