CLAIRE
The first model stepped onto the runway wearing the opening piece, a structured blazer in charcoal gray over wide-leg trousers.
The room went silent except for the music, a slow instrumental build that matched the pace of her walk.
I stood backstage, my hands clasped together so tightly my knuckles turned white, watching through the gap in the curtain, the model reached the end of the runway, paused for the photographers, then turned and walked back.
Perfect, exactly as we'd practiced. Nina appeared beside me, squeezing my arm. "Breathe," she whispered.
I realized I'd been holding my breath and let it out slowly. The second model walked out in a deep burgundy dress, then the third, the fourth, each piece building on the one before.
The audience was quiet but attentive, I could
