The judges spent what felt like an eternity deliberating, but finally, the moment we’d all been waiting for arrived. The host of the contest stepped onto the stage, a microphone in hand, his smile wide and infectious. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he announced, his voice amplified through the speakers. “After careful consideration, we are excited to announce the winner of this year’s International Fashion Design Contest.”
I held my breath, my hands gripping the edge of my seat as I looked over at Lily, who was standing beside her designs, waiting with bated breath. Her hands trembled slightly, but she was calm. She had already done more than enough.
“The winner of the International Fashion Design Contest is…” The host paused dramatically, his eyes scanning the room. He smiled at Lily, then turned back to the audience. “Lily Matthews!”
The room erupted in applause, the sound deafening as the crowd stood to their feet. For a moment, I couldn’t believe it. Lily had done it. She had won.