Unbreakable Duty

Green-Eyed Monster

Earn's studio was a whirlwind of activity, with fabric swatches, sketches, and half-finished gowns scattered around. The scent of fresh textiles filled the air as she meticulously stitched the final details onto her showpiece, a gown inspired by the elegant simplicity. Each bead and thread was placed with care, a testament to her dedication and passion for her craft.

She barely noticed the hours slipping by, fully absorbed in her work. The launch of her bridal collection was fast approaching, and everything had to be perfect. This collection was more than just another project - it was her return to the world she loved, a world that has been on hold due to recent events in her life.

But even in the midst of this creative fervor, Earn couldn't shake the nagging thoughts of Fahlada. The memories, the dreams, the fragments of a past she was struggling to piece together - they all lingered at the edge of her consciousness. Each day, she would send hydrangeas to Fahlada's hospital room, signing the cards with a simple note indicating the color, just as she remembered that she had done before when advising Fahlada on what color of the suit she should wear to events the Earn is coming to. 

She wasn't sure why she felt compelled to do it, but it was a connection she needed to maintain, even if she couldn't be there in person as often as she wanted. The flowers were a small gesture, but they carried a weight of unspoken emotions - emotions she was only beginning to understand.

Earn's focus shifted back to her gown, her hands moving deftly over the fabric. The rhythmic motion of needle and thread was soothing, a distraction from the turmoil in her mind. But as she worked, she couldn't help but wonder if Fahlada was thinking about her too, if the flowers brought any comfort, or if they stirred the same confusion that Earn felt.

She paused, taking a step back to admire her progress. The gown was coming together beautifully, each element falling into place just as she envisioned, realizing that as she was putting up the details to the gown, she kept thinking about Fahlada that she made her the muse for her final piece. 

The gown featured a strapless bodice, with delicate, soft ruffles cascading down. The fabric was ethereal, almost translucent, creating an airy, dreamy effect as it draped elegantly over the curves of the mannequin. The subtle sweetheart neckline added a touch of femininity, while the fitted waist flowed into a voluminous, layered skirt that moved like a gentle breeze.

Thinking about the floral bouquet that will be held as an accessory of the model, Earn incorporated floral appliqués made from the same fabric, adding depth and texture to the bodice. These delicate flowers seemed to bloom from the fabric itself, giving the gown an organic, almost living quality. The entire design exuded a sense of purity and understated elegance, perfectly capturing the essence of love.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Earn had just finished placing the last rose onto the gown when her phone buzzed with a notification. It was a message from Tan, letting her know that Fahlada had been discharged from the hospital earlier that day. Relief washed over her - Fahlada was finally home.

Without a second thought, she picked up her phone and dialed Fahlada's number. The call connected after a few rings, and Fahlada's steady voice greeted her.

"Hey, how are you feeling?" Earn asked, trying to keep her tone light, though her concern was evident.

"I'm doing well," Fahlada replied. "I've settled down in my condo. It's nice to be back home. I'm ready to be of service again."

Earn couldn't help but smile at Fahlada's dedication, but her worry lingered. "I'm glad you're home, but you don't have to rush into work. Your recovery is more important."

There was a pause on the line, and then Fahlada's voice softened. "Thank you for the flowers, Earn. They really brightened up my days in the hospital. It wouldn't have been the same without them."