CHAPTER 349

Emily’s POV

The week that followed felt like a dream I couldn’t quite believe was real. Every day brought a new interview, another opportunity to share my story, and more excitement as my designs—and my name—were plastered across magazines, TV screens, and the internet. It felt like a dream, but it was admittedly exhilarating. The attention was overwhelming at times too, yet it was the kind of attention I’d always longed for.

To top it all off, a major international clothing company reached out, inviting me to create a series of designs for their upcoming collection. When I received that email, I could hardly contain my excitement.

This is the perfect validation of everything I’d worked so hard for—a chance to show the world what I could do on a grand scale!

In the midst of all the excitement, I knew I needed to do something to show my appreciation for the friends who had stood by me through the darkest times. I decided to host a simple dinner party, a way to say thank you for their