Scars Of Marriage.

chapter 35: Be Mine Alone.

I finally made a decision to work with Michelle; Richard was, however, against it. He emphasized that I hadn't fully healed and that I had to wait until then if I wanted to do any kind of work.

I had to abide by his words. Michelle told me that she would pick me up when I was completely healed. She mentioned that she was going to open a company for me in the meantime.

I was once again overwhelmed. I quickly told her that there was no need to do so, as I could just work under her; however, she refused.

Richard also told me that the fashion industry was strict about their work. If it was discovered that Michelle used my designs, her reputation would be ruined; therefore, opening a separate company for me was the only way.

What could I say? I let them do as they pleased; however, I told them that they could be in charge of the shares in that company. Michelle and Richard immediately refused, but I remained adamant.

Richard was my savior. How could I continuously take from him and his sister without giving them any profit? That was selfish.

A month passed by, and I was now fully healed. Michelle came to pick me up from Richard's home. I bid farewell to him and his aunt, giving each of them the sweaters and stockings I had made for them.

"Protect her. You also know your fashion industry circle. If I hear any complaints, I will immediately come and pick her up," Richard commanded.

I was touched by his words; my heart felt warm, and my whole body felt comfortable. I gently smiled at him as we left.

I worked well with Michelle. She taught me various things. Since I was good at sewing, stitching, and crocheting, I quickly got the hang of things.

I would sometimes return to visit Richard; sometimes he would pass by my work center to check my progress. I really liked being close to him; I guess it was the effect of him saving my life.

After six months, I launched my very first collection called 'Swan.' Michelle did the publishing and announcements. She was also in charge of looking for models for my work.

"Swan! You are really a miracle, just like your name! Do you know that your Swan collection has made a huge splash? The company made over 50 million on its first launch! As a new designer, this is simply unheard of!" Michelle said as she excitedly entered my office. I was surprised— all that money?

"Yes! Yes! You are hearing that right! Your collection is now popular among the youth and even older people! Many news articles are talking about the hidden miracle swan designer!" Michelle said.

I finally smiled; at least now I had somehow paid back the debt I owed Richard. Suddenly remembering Richard, I decided to tell him the good news.

"That's good then; I didn't disappoint you," I said.

"Of course you didn't! I trust my vision!" Michelle said as a phone call came in. Her secretary and mine also came in to inform us about sales, marketing, etc.

After Michelle and the secretaries left, I called Richard.

"Hello? Have you eaten lunch already?" I asked after the call connected.

"I was just going to eat. How about you?" Richard replied in a soft tone.

"I have already eaten," I shyly replied. I didn't know why, but Richard's voice over the phone was always magnetic and enchanting.

"I have good news to tell you," I said.

"Go ahead, I am always happy when you tell me anything about you," Richard replied.