How did I ever think that I stand a chance against established labels with entire teams of designers and highly talented newcomers?
Stop. I need to make this statement.
In the fashion industry, there's always competition, and I won't be the only designer trying her luck alongsideTouch avlyx. The business is tough, and my father knows that. After all, he's the one who taught me exactly that. Only if my design makes it to the shortlist and is shown on the runway will it become known that Sky Blohm is the designer.
That's what matters.
Kjell will understand what it means. I no longer want to hide from the public or from my true dreams. And especially not from his truth.
But what will my father do if it comes to that?
I can picture him, sizing me up with disappointment. I can hear him disowning me in interviews. And I can feel the fear his lawyers will instill in me with their threats.
With heavy shoulders, I let the scissors drop. "Maybe this is too big of a step for me."
"You've already submitted your entry," Lil reminds me.
That's right. The deadline was yesterday. I had to act, and in the excitement of the idea, it actually felt right.
But now?
"Should I check if it can be undone?" Lil asks empathetically.
I bite my lower lip and gaze outside. Kjell stood on this terrace when I had the first inspiration for the Oscar gown. He was the reason I started designing again in the first place.
"No," I reply firmly. "This is the right thing to do." I reach for the scissors again and pick up where I left off. My fingers tremble, but I don't let that stop me.
The days when I did everything to please my father are over. I have a right to my own life, to do what makes me happy, and to love as passionately as my heart desires.
"Alright. I'll continue looking for a model, and you make sure that dream dress gets finished." Lil sounds relieved, and so am I.
We bid each other goodbye, and I return to my work. I cut out one piece after another, then it's the flowing chiffon fabric's turn,which I'll attach as a one-sided cape on the pearl-embroidered strap of the dress.
With each successive move, I feel more energy coursing through me.
The decision has been made.
No matter what steps my father might take, and even if he discovers what I'm planning. He won't stop me.
The world needs to know Sky Blohm.
And Kjell needs to know that he's the one who made this liberation possible in the first place.
