The Grand Finale

Quinn sat in her office, sunlight pouring through the floor-to-ceiling windows as she reviewed the final list of guests for the grand finale of her fashion show. The first few nights had been successful, but the last night was meant to outshine them all. She needed the right people in attendance—business moguls, investors, influencers, and media personalities who could elevate the event to iconic status.

She picked up the phone and called Mia, who answered almost immediately.

"Good morning, ma'am," Mia greeted professionally.

"Good morning, Mia. I want you to oversee the delivery of these final invitations personally," Quinn instructed. "Send them to key investors, business leaders, and industry insiders. This night needs to be monumental."

"Yes, ma'am," Mia replied, already typing notes on her tablet.

"And make sure Mr. Fletcher gets his invitation," Quinn added, her tone sharp.

"Understood, ma'am. Anything else?"

Quinn paused for a moment, then said, "Yes. Add Leo and Sophia to the list. And our parents as well."

There was a brief hesitation on Mia's end before she replied, "Of course, ma'am. I'll have their invitations delivered immediately."

"Good. Keep me updated," Quinn said before hanging up.

That evening, Quinn returned to the Langston mansion. She found Leo in his study, sipping whiskey and reviewing documents from Langston Group.

"Leo," she said, stepping into the room without knocking.

He looked up from his desk, surprised by her unannounced arrival. "Quinn. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

She walked over to his desk and placed an elegant black-and-gold envelope in front of him.

"What's this?" he asked, picking it up.

"An invitation," Quinn said curtly. "To the final night of my fashion show."

Leo raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly. "You're inviting me? I thought you preferred spending your time with Michael these days."

Quinn's expression didn't waver. "You're my husband, Leo. People will expect you to be there. Besides, this is a business event, and I'm extending a courtesy to you as part of the Langston name."

Leo leaned back in his chair, studying her. "So, it's about appearances, then?"

"You know all about appearances, don't you?" Quinn shot back.

Leo chuckled darkly, setting the invitation down on his desk. "I'll be there, darling. Don't worry. I wouldn't miss seeing what you've been working so hard on."

The next morning, Quinn stopped by Langston Group to deliver Sophia's invitation in person. She walked into Sophia's office unannounced, catching her off guard.

Sophia looked up from her desk, her surprise quickly giving way to a sly smile. "Quinn. This is unexpected."

"I thought I'd deliver this personally," Quinn said, handing her the envelope.

Sophia opened it and read the contents, her smile widening. "The grand finale of your fashion show. How thoughtful of you to invite me."

"I wouldn't want you to feel left out," Quinn said with a polite smile that didn't reach her eyes.

Sophia leaned back in her chair, her gaze sharp. "I wouldn't miss it for the world. I'm sure it'll be... fascinating to watch."

Quinn tilted her head slightly. "I'm sure it will be. See you there, Sophia."

With that, she turned and walked out, leaving Sophia smirking to herself.

The grand finale of the fashion show was held at one of the most prestigious venues in New York City. The ballroom was opulent, with crystal chandeliers, a massive runway that stretched the room's length, and lavish floral arrangements adorning every corner.

Guests began arriving in droves, stepping out of sleek black cars and into a sea of flashing cameras. Business moguls, fashion icons, and influential investors mingled in the reception area, sipping champagne and exchanging pleasantries.

Quinn had spared no expense in curating the guest list. Among the attendees were Richard Fletcher, several high-profile designers, and media executives who had the power to catapult her brand to new heights.

Quinn arrived at the event with Leo by her side. She wore a stunning crimson gown with a plunging neckline and intricate beadwork, her hair styled in loose waves that framed her face. Leo, dressed in a classic black tuxedo, looked as sharp as ever. Together, they made a striking pair, and the crowd's murmurs of admiration followed them as they entered the ballroom.

"Smile," Quinn said under her breath as they walked through the crowd.

Leo smirked faintly. "Don't worry, darling. I know how to play the part."

As they greeted the guests, Quinn's parents approached, their faces lighting up when they saw her.

"Sweetheart, you look absolutely radiant," her mother said, hugging her tightly.

"Thank you, Mom," Quinn replied, smiling warmly.

Her father shook Leo's hand. "Leo, good to see you. I hope you're taking care of our daughter."

"Of course, Mr. Shaw," Leo said smoothly, his tone polite but distant.

Across the room, Mr. and Mrs. Langston were seated in the VIP section, watching the event unfold with reserved pride.

As the night progressed, Quinn excused herself from Leo's side to circulate among the guests. She was soon joined by Michael, who arrived fashionably late, dressed in a tailored navy suit that drew attention wherever he went.

"Michael," Quinn greeted him with a warm smile. "I'm glad you could make it."

"Of course," he replied, taking her hand briefly. "I wouldn't miss this for anything. Besides, I need to see the magic you've created tonight."

The two of them began working the room together, greeting investors and designers with effortless charm. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the guests couldn't help but take notice.

At one point, Michael extended his hand to her. "Care to dance?"

Quinn hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Why not?"

They moved to the center of the ballroom, where other couples were already dancing. The string quartet began playing a soft, romantic melody as Michael and Quinn swayed to the music.

"You've outdone yourself tonight," Michael said, his voice low enough for only her to hear.

Quinn smiled faintly. "Let's hope Richard Fletcher agrees."

Michael chuckled. "He will. He's already seen the buzz this event has generated.

Meanwhile, Leo was standing near the bar, a glass of whiskey in hand, chatting with Sophia. She was dressed in a figure-hugging black gown, her makeup flawless.

"She's really putting on a show tonight," Sophia said, nodding toward Quinn and Michael on the dance floor.

Leo's jaw tightened as he took a sip of his drink. "She knows what she's doing."

Sophia smirked. "It's fascinating to watch, isn't it? Your wife playing the perfect hostess while cozying up to Michael Lennox."

Leo shot her a sharp look. "Careful, Sophia."

Sophia raised an eyebrow, her smile never faltering. "I'm just saying, Leo. It seems like she's enjoying herself a little too much."

Leo didn't respond, his gaze fixed on Quinn and Michael as they laughed and chatted on the dance floor.

The grand ballroom of Quinn's Group flagship venue was shimmering under the glow of its crystal chandeliers. The night had already been a stunning success, with guests awestruck by the impeccable fashion show, the designs on the runway, and the flawless execution of every detail. But Quinn knew the final moments of the evening would be the most important. The right words could elevate her triumph to an unforgettable milestone.

As the last model exited the runway, the applause roared through the room. Sitting in the VIP section beside Michael and her parents, Quinn glanced at Mia, who nodded subtly. It was time.

Quinn rose gracefully, her emerald green gown catching the light with every step as she made her way to the stage. The room quieted as all eyes turned to her. The microphone stood at the center of the stage, waiting for her. She paused briefly, looking out over the sea of guests—investors, business leaders, designers, and her family—and then began to speak.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen," Quinn began, her voice calm and poised but with a warmth that immediately captivated the room. "First and foremost, thank you all for being here tonight. Your presence means the world to me and to everyone at Quinn's Group. Tonight, we've celebrated more than just fashion—we've celebrated innovation, creativity, and the power of collaboration."

The room filled with soft applause, and Quinn allowed herself a moment to smile before continuing.

"When I started Quinn's Group, I had a vision," she said, her voice growing more emotional. "A vision of a company that wasn't just about products, but about people. It is about empowering our customers, partners, and employees to feel confident and inspired in everything they do. And tonight, I believe we've taken another step toward realizing that vision."

The crowd murmured their approval, many nodding in agreement.

"But I wouldn't be standing here without the incredible support of those around me," Quinn continued, her gaze sweeping the room. "First, I want to thank my team—every designer, marketer, logistician, and Quinn's Group family member who worked tirelessly to make this event a success. This night belongs to you as much as it does to me."

More applause echoed through the room, and Quinn paused to let it die down before she continued.

"There's one person in particular I need to acknowledge," she said, her tone softening as her eyes flicked to Michael, who sat in the VIP section. "Someone who has stood by me during one of the most challenging periods of my career. Someone who has shown unwavering support and believed in me even when the odds seemed insurmountable."

The room fell silent, and all eyes turned to Michael.

"Michael Lennox," Quinn said, her voice steady but filled with genuine emotion. "Your guidance, loyalty, and friendship have been invaluable to me. And tonight, I am proud to announce that Michael will be stepping into a new role as Vice President of Quinn's Group."

The crowd erupted into applause, with several guests standing to clap. Michael blinked in surprise, clearly caught off guard, but a slow smile spread across his face. He rose from his seat, nodding humbly as the applause continued.

Quinn gestured for him to join her on stage. Michael made his way up, his confident stride and sharp navy suit exuding charisma. Quinn extended her hand when he reached her, but he surprised her by pulling her into a brief, friendly hug instead.

"Thank you, Quinn," Michael said as he approached the microphone. "This is an honor I don't take lightly. Working with you has been an incredible journey, and I'm excited to continue building something extraordinary together. To everyone here tonight, thank you for believing in Quinn's Group—and in us."

The crowd applauded again, and Quinn smiled at Michael before returning to the microphone.

Before Quinn could continue, Richard Fletcher, the prominent businessman, and special evening guest, rose from his seat in the VIP section. He adjusted his tie and made his way toward the stage, prompting murmurs of excitement among the guests.

Quinn smiled warmly and stepped back to allow Richard to take the microphone.

"Good evening, everyone," Richard began, his deep, authoritative voice commanding attention. "First, let me say what an incredible evening this has been. I've attended countless fashion shows, but tonight's event has been exceptional."

The crowd applauded, and Richard glanced at Quinn with a faint smile.

"Mrs. Langston," he said, turning to her directly. "You've shown tonight not just your talent but your tenacity. You've demonstrated what it means to lead with vision, resilience, and heart. And as someone who prides himself on recognizing potential, I can say with absolute certainty that Quinn's Group is a force to be reckoned with."

Quinn's heart swelled with pride, though she kept her expression composed.

Richard continued, "I had my doubts at first. But after tonight, those doubts have been erased. I am pleased to announce that Fletcher Enterprises will partner with Quinn's Group to bring your vision to even greater heights."

The room burst into applause, and Quinn felt a wave of relief and triumph wash over her.

Richard extended his hand toward her, and she shook it firmly, her smile radiant. "Thank you, Mr. Fletcher," she said, her voice steady despite the emotion in her chest. "This partnership means the world to us, and I promise you won't regret it."

"I'm certain I won't," Richard replied with a nod before stepping aside to let her take the stage again.

Quinn took a moment to steady herself before addressing the crowd again.

"This partnership is a testament to what we can achieve when we push past limitations and strive for excellence," she said. "Tonight isn't just the end of a fashion show—it's the beginning of a new chapter for Quinn's Group. Thank you all for being a part of this journey, including my family and my husband, Leo Langston. Let's make the future as bright as tonight has been."

The applause was deafening, and as Quinn stepped back from the microphone, Michael placed a hand on her shoulder.

"You did it," he said quietly, his voice filled with pride.

"We did it," Quinn corrected, her smile soft but genuine.

Leo stood near the bar in the corner of the ballroom, his expression unreadable as he watched Quinn on stage. Sophia stood beside him, sipping her cocktail with a smirk.

"Well," Sophia said, her tone laced with amusement, "your wife certainly knows how to put on a show."

Leo didn't respond, his grip tightening around his glass.

Sophia raised an eyebrow. "Oh, don't tell me you're jealous of Michael Lennox. That wouldn't be very becoming of you, Leo."

"I'm not jealous," Leo said coldly, his gaze never leaving Quinn.

"Of course not," Sophia said, her tone mocking. "You just look like you want to strangle someone every time you see them together."

Leo finally turned to glare at her. "Drop it, Sophia."

Sophia shrugged, her smirk widening. "Suit yourself."

As the event wound down, guests began to filter out, but the buzz of excitement lingered in the air. Quinn stood near the entrance, thanking people as they left.

When she finally turned to Michael, she let out a deep breath. "I think that went well."

Michael chuckled. "Quinn, that was a masterpiece. You owned the night."

She smiled, feeling a rare moment of contentment. "Thank you, Michael. For everything."

"Always," he replied, his tone sincere.

As they stepped out into the cool night air, Quinn felt a spark of hope ignite within her. This was just the beginning.

[sorry guy we were caught up with something important, that is why the cahpters were not updated but now, I am fully back!]