CHAPTER 15

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JUSTINE

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JUSTINE

Two months have flown by since Jayden and I started our relationship, and I feel like the luckiest girl in the world. Time has raced by so quickly that it's hard to believe it’s already been two months. The old saying, "Time flies when you're having fun," definitely rings true for me when I’m with him.

Jayden is everything I’ve ever dreamed of in a partner—kind, attentive, and intelligent. He makes me feel safe and cared for, and he always knows just how to make me laugh. I’ve always been independent, but it’s so nice to have someone who supports me and makes me feel truly special.

We haven’t officially announced our relationship yet, but everyone close to us knows we’re together. The people at school may still be unsure since we haven’t confirmed it publicly, but we’re happy, and that’s all that matters.

Jayden recently met my little sister, Jenny, and she adores him. Normally quite shy around new people, Jenny immediately warmed up to Jayden—she even chatted his ear off! It was through Jenny’s enthusiastic praise that my mom decided she wanted to meet him as well.

My mom already likes Jayden, though my dad is still hesitant. I think it’s because of my past relationship with Mitch, but I’m confident Dad will come around in time.

I haven’t met any of Jayden’s family yet, but he’s told me a little about them. He’s very close to his two childhood friends. He hasn’t mentioned any past relationships, but I’m sure he’ll share more when he’s ready.

In the meantime, my parents have decided it’s time for me to showcase my fashion designs at Fashion Week. I’ve been contributing to the family business for the past two years, but this moment feels bigger than anything I’ve faced before. Still, my parents have been incredibly supportive. We’ve been preparing for this for the last month and a half. It’s been a whirlwind, juggling school and Fashion Week preparations, but it’s also been deeply rewarding to pour my creative energy into my own work.

Having such talented parents who’ve built a global empire certainly makes things easier, but Jayden has also been a wonderful source of support. He surprises me with thoughtful gifts and gestures every day, filling my heart with joy.

I’m so grateful for everything in my life—a loving family, a caring partner, and a passion I can pursue. I know I’m truly blessed, and I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world.

The first rays of the sun streamed through my window, casting a warm, golden glow across my room. My heart pounded with anticipation as I realized that today was the day—my debut collection at New York Fashion Week.

Excitement and joy washed over me. This was the moment I’d been dreaming of since I was a little girl, sketching designs on scraps of paper and sewing clothes for my dolls. Now, my dreams were about to become reality.

I walked into the bathroom, the plush carpet soft beneath my bare feet. The steam from the shower enveloped me in warmth, awakening my senses. As I stepped beneath the invigorating spray, the last remnants of sleep washed away, leaving me refreshed and focused.

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