Chapter 65

Isabella only entered Guci Tower after reapplying her lipstick.

The entire staff stood waiting for her arrival. The moment she stepped inside, Guci's manager rushed forward to greet her. "Ms. Montgomery, what an honor to finally meet you in person. Our entire creative team is prepared and awaiting your direction."

"My apologies for the delay," Isabella responded with genuine courtesy toward the waiting staff.

"Please, no need for apologies. We completely understand given your demanding schedule." The manager personally escorted her toward the preparation area. "We'll begin your makeup while I overview today's shooting agenda."

Isabella settled into the chair beside Victoria, immediately surrounded by a team of makeup artists, hairstylists, and styling assistants.

Victoria's hands clenched beneath the vanity. The manager hadn't even acknowledged her presence earlier—just an assistant had shown her to this room. Yet Isabella received royal treatment from the moment she arrived.

How could a newcomer command more respect than the industry's top supermodel?

Gabriella noticed Victoria's darkening expression and quickly adjusted her foundation. "Stay focused, Victoria. Your performance during the shoot will overshadow everything else. You know how to work the camera better than anyone."

Victoria composed herself. Of course she did. She had dominated magazine covers for years. She understood angles, lighting, and how to captivate the lens. She would outperform Isabella completely and reclaim her position as the undeniable star.

The manager positioned himself between their stations. "For Guci's Summer collection, our designers created two distinct lines. Each of you will represent one collection. The magazine feature will determine which line generates higher sales, thus declaring the winner of this collaboration."

"Given your stellar reputations, we anticipate record-breaking sales for both collections. Now we need to determine who represents the Avocado Green line versus the Ruby Red collection."

Victoria immediately offered her suggestion. "Isabella's vibrant energy perfectly suits the red collection. Red naturally draws attention in print, which would certainly boost sales for that line. I'm happy to let her have it."

Her generous tone impressed the surrounding staff, who admired her apparent professionalism and kindness toward her colleague.

Isabella nearly laughed aloud. Does she truly think I'm this naive?

While ruby red made a bold statement, this was a summer collection. Consumers gravitated toward lighter, cooler tones during hot months—especially refreshing avocado green. Statistics showed most people avoided attention-grabbing colors; only a small percentage preferred standout pieces like ruby red. The green line would undoubtedly outsell the red.

Gabriella intervened when Isabella remained silent. "Is something wrong, Ms. Montgomery? Victoria generously offered you the superior collection. You should be appreciative."

"If it's so superior, then she should keep it. I don't require handouts," Isabella countered sharply.

Victoria's smile tightened. She would never actually choose the red collection herself. Summer consumers avoided bold reds.

"As your elder sister, I've always let you have the best things since we were children," Victoria resumed her gracious persona. "I want to continue that tradition now. I have faith you'll excel with the red collection."

She selected several avocado green garments and headed toward the changing room without looking back.