Beneath The Mask

Chapter 7

Abigail could feel the pressure mounting as she stood backstage, whispering to Olivia. Her cheeks were flushed, a light sheen of sweat gathering at her temples. The weight of expectation pressed down on her; it was finally time to present her carefully designed collection to the world. The venue buzzed with excited chatter, runway lights blazed overhead, and cameras were poised to capture every moment.

Despite her racing heart, Abigail reminded herself that she was more than just another fashion student. She was a traveler from 2023, living in 2014—a secret that gave her a unique perspective in design and technology. She had poured her heart and soul into these pieces, determined to showcase not only her creativity but also her resilience.

The music swelled, and the first model stepped onto the runway. Abigail held her breath as the dress—soft lace with an edgy twist—flowed elegantly under the spotlights. The audience gasped in delight, and Abigail felt a surge of confidence. This was her moment, the culmination of countless hours of sketching, sewing, and refining each garment.

Olivia leaned in, whispering, “You’ve got this, Abby. Show them who you are.”

Nodding, Abigail prepared the next look. She’d taken bold risks—incorporating unusual fabrics, intricate details, and futuristic accents—hoping to reflect both the sweet innocence she’d once clung to and the new perspective she carried from the future. If anyone questioned where her sudden insight came from, they never said so out loud.

Backstage was a whirlwind of activity. Models rushed in and out, changing outfits in seconds. Assistants frantically adjusted hemlines, pinned stray fabric, and touched up makeup. Through it all, Abigail stood steady, focusing on her designs and letting the rest of the world fade into the background.

She thought of Raymond and Annabella only once, their betrayal still a raw ache in her heart. But with each garment that graced the runway, her pain transformed into determination. This showcase wasn’t just about proving her talent; it was about reclaiming her sense of self.

When the final look swept onto the stage—a striking gown with layers of delicate lace and bold, modern flourishes—Abigail stepped out behind the model, offering a grateful smile to the audience. Applause thundered through the room, and for the first time in weeks, she felt truly free.

As the lights dimmed, Olivia rushed over, pulling Abigail into a tight hug. “You did it!” she exclaimed, beaming. “That was incredible!”

Abigail smiled, tears of relief in her eyes. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice shaking with emotion. “This is just the beginning.”