Novel Square
Chapter 134
Chapter 134
Chapter 134 Unsatisfactory Works
Annie gave her a quick glance before returning his focus to the animated conversation with Maggie.
“Are you proposing the addition of pearls? Pearls hadn’t crossed my mind previously. I can’t even fathom the kind of impact it would makel”
H
sharp eyes gleamed, akin to a hungry predator, as she watched Maggie.
Unable to suppress a smile, Maggie responded, “Why not give it a shot?”
Feeling a profound connection with Maggie, Annie couldn’t resist inquiring. “What are your thoughts on incorporating the ring? Would that be something you’d consider?
“Oh, indeed! I recall mentioning that the bow could be fashioned in a more three–dimensional style, perhaps like this…”
Despite her presence for some time, Annie was wholly absorbed in her task, swiftly picking up a pen and sketching on the draft paper with fervour, oblivious to whether Vanessa and Joseph were observing her
actions.
They engaged in conversation for nearly thirty minutes.
During their conversation, Vanessa and Joseph’s expression gradually darkened, reflecting growing
concern.
In contrast, Joseph seemed more composed than Vanessa. His demeanour reflected a sense of assurance, as the evident rapport between Annie and Maggie suggested promising prospects for success.
Whether it’s Vanessa or Maggie, signing her talent would be the right move.
As time passed and their conversation showed no signs of slowing down, Vanessa felt compelled to interject once more. “I must admit, I didn’t anticipate Ms. Annie being so accommodating. However, 1 firmly believe that design is an inherently subjective and personal endeavour. Ms. Annie ought to have faith in her instincts and remain steadfast in her vision, irrespective of external influences.”
Upon hearing Vanessa’s words, both Maggie and Annie simultaneously directed their gaze towards her. Their attention is fully captured by her statement.
Maggie couldn’t help but smirk, mischief twinkling in her eyes.
It’s hard to say whether Vanessa is genuinely naive or just pretending. She admits that what she said was correct, but now it’s clear that it’s Annie who seeks change, yet she keeps discouraging her. Isn’t that
foolish?
After being interrupted, Annie’s enthusiasm also diminished slightly. It’s like a bucket of cold water has been poured over her, and on top of feeling unfulfilled, she didn’t have a good mood.
*Mr. Cameron, you came to invite me to join the Luster Corporation, is that right?”
She got
straight to the point. Joseph immediately perked up and straightened his posture.
“Absolutely, Ms. Annie. Our company highly appreciates innovative design styles and respects your design philosophy. That’s why we’re extending an invitation to collaborate, to give your creations better exposure.
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His words were cut short as Annie interjected, “Sorry, Mr. Cameron, I did consider your proposal before. However, this meeting made me realise that partnering with Luster Corporation isn’t the right fit for me.
There was a pause, and then Annie continued, “Of course, apart from the fact that the person in charge of Luster Corporation is Maggie.”
Joseph was stunned for a moment, while Vanessa couldn’t help but ask, “Why, Ms. Annie?”
“Given our disparate aesthetics and divergent design philosophies, I’m compelled to respectfully decline your invitation,” Annie declared with straightforwardness.
Vanessa’s anxiety surfaced. “But why decline? We deeply admire and value your work. Are you worried about potential criticism or disrespect towards your designs following the event? Please rest assured, even though Maggie is the Camerons‘ daughter, she won’t….
Mid–sentence, Vanessa abruptly realised her error. Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.
Moments earlier, Annie had unequivocally stated that she would only agree if Maggie was in charge of the
event
But why?
Annie promptly offered an explanation at the next moment.
“I apologisé, Ms. Brown. The reason the booth you admire isn’t open for public purchase is because the designs showcased inside are all my unsatisfactory works. Since they didn’t meet my standards and didn’t impress me, they’re not meant for public sale.”
Vanessa stood motionless, gazing at Annie in astonishment..
What did she say?
Unsatisfactory works?
Trying to muster a smile, Vanessa exclaimed, “You must be kidding. How can that be?”
Unfortunately, there was no trace of humour on Annie’s face.
“Why does display work that you’re not content with?” Vanessa asked urgently, evidently feeling a bit flustered.
“Because even if it’s not satisfactory, it’s not entirely without merit. It’s just that it hasn’t achieved the effect I desire. There is a common phrase that says: discarding food without taste would be a pity,” Annie replied. calmly.
“So, I exhibited it at the showcase, aiming to gather inspiration or receive feedback from customers to refine it and achieve the desired outcome.”
Vanessa couldn’t suppress a forced smile, feeling her facial muscles tighten up.
She was mistaken. This exhibition booth wasn’t an exclusive high–end or custom–made item unavailable for public purchase, but rather a flawed product that she wasn’t content with.
The idea of squandering a rare opportunity by investing in numerous flawed items despite their high cost. left her unable to muster a smile.
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Joseph’s expression shifted from confusion to conflict. He instinctively glanced at Maggie, who remained impassive on the sidelines. He couldn’t help but ponder: Does she have an inkling?
“If I could regularly encounter clients who appreciate my designs like this, I’m confident I could overcome barriers and produce even more remarkable designs,” Annie expressed optimistically.
She turned towards Maggie, and a smile illuminated her face.
In a soft tone, Maggie remarked, “Your designs possess a distinctive flair. You’re simply too critical of yourself. The pieces you deem unsatisfactory are coveted by many”
Upon hearing this, Annie couldn’t suppress a sigh.
However, these words rang particularly harshly in Vanessa’s cars. They had invested so much money today, only to come away with nothing to show for it.
Not only had she failed to win Annie’s approval, but she also ended up praising the wrong way.
Vanessa pressed her lips together, her expression fluctuating–constantly.
She couldn’t comprehend why items she found appealing would be deemed worthless in Annie’s eyes or labelled as failures that she refused to sell.
Being branded as a failure only heightened her frustration.
How could she return and proudly wear these items now?
If others were to discover that she had purchased designs that the designer herself despised, she could only imagine the ridicule she would endure!
“Maggie has always shown great talent in design. Ms. Annie, if you’re willing to join Luster Corporation. you could collaborate closely with her.
“Moreover, at the Cameron Group, we boast numerous outstanding jewellery designers. You might contemplate signing with us for a year. Immersing yourself in the culture and customs of Aquapolis could also be a rewarding experience.”
Joseph hesitated only briefly, unable to dwell on past regrets, and resolved to utilise Maggie as a means to forge a closer connection with Annie.
Maggie saw through his scheme, a glint of frostiness flashing in her eyes.
Not too long ago, he had criticised her for being stubborn and naive, yet now he was prepared to exploit. her as a means to an end.
Well, that was quite characteristic of him.