Chapter 1: The Janitor Everyone Ignored
The applause echoed beneath the crystal chandeliers long after Maya stepped away from the celebrity's gown.
The actress turned toward the photographers with effortless elegance, every camera flash reflecting off the newly transformed couture masterpiece.
"Who designed this?" one reporter shouted.
The celebrity smiled.
"She did."
She gently took Maya's hand and pulled her onto the center of the red carpet.
Hundreds of guests applauded.
Regina stood frozen.
Only ten minutes earlier, she had ripped apart Maya's sketchbook, mocked her in front of everyone, and ordered security to escort her out of the building.
Now the woman she had called "just a janitor" had become the center of the entire gala.
One famous fashion editor approached Maya.
"Have you ever worked for a fashion house?"
Maya smiled politely.
"No."
"You designed this without measurements?"
"I've repaired clothes since I was twelve."
The editor stared at the gown.
"This isn't a repair."
He paused.
"This is couture."
Nearby, Regina interrupted.
"She's lying."
Every conversation stopped.
Regina forced a smile.
"She cleans floors. She isn't a designer."
The celebrity slowly turned toward Regina.
"Then perhaps you've been wasting extraordinary talent."
May you like
Silence spread across the ballroom.
For the first time in years, Regina had no answer.
