Chapter 267
Rebecca’s POV
I entered to find a woman in her fifties with short silver hair and striking amber eyes looking up from a desk covered in fabric swatchet and sketches. She wore a structured dress in a bold geometric print that somehow managed to look both avant–garde and perfectly appropriate.
‘Professor Jones?” I inquired, stepping forward. “I’m Rebecca Brown. I’m enrolled in your contemporary design course.”
Professor Jones studied me for a moment, then a smile transformed her stern features. “Ah, Ms. Brown. Or should I say, Mrs. Sterling?”
I blinked, surprised that she knew my married name. “Either is fine,” I said, recovering quickly. “Rebecca is even better.”
She rose from her desk, extending a hand. “Welcome to City Arts Academy, Rebecca. I’ve been looking forward to meeting you.”
“You have?” I couldn’t hide my surprise.
“Indeed. Your portfolie submission was quite impressive.” She gestured to a chair across from her desk. “Please, sit.”
As I settled into the chair, Professor Jones returned to her seat, her amber eyes never leaving my face. “It’s not often we get students with your level of natural talent, especially in mid–career.”
“Thank you,” I said, still bemused by her interest. “Though I wouldn’t call it a career yet. I’ve only designed a few pieces for family and friends.”
“Yet your understanding of fabric behavior, draping techniques, and structural integrity is remarkably sophisticated for someone without formal training,” she observed. “Your evening gown with the asymmetrical neckline, for instance–the way you managed the bias cut to create that fluid line while maintaining structure in the bodice. That’s advanced work.”
I felt a flush of pleasure at her assessment. “I’ve always been observant,” I said. “I study pieces I admire, try to understand how they’re constructed.”
“I see. Professor Jones studied me thoughtfully. “Well, Rebecca, I believe your unique perspective as a mother and your obvious talent will be assets to our program. The contemporary design course meets in Studio 4, starting in fifteen minutes. I’ll be teaching today’s session myself.”
I stood, recognizing the dismissal. “Thank you, Professor Jones. I look forward to the class.”
Studio 4 was a large, bright space with floor–to–ceiling windows along one wall, flooding the room with natural light. Long worktables occupied the center of the room, each equipped with adjustable lamps and surrounded by comfortable stools. Dress forms of various sizes stood along another wall, and industrial sewing machines were arranged in a separate area.
Students were already filtering in as I arrived, claiming spots at the tables and unpacking supplies. Most appeared to be in their early twenties, though I spotted a few who might be closer to my age. I chose a seat at a table near the back corner, setting my portfolio and supplies beside me.
As I unpacked my sketchbook and pencils, I was acutely aware of curious glances from the other students. I’d chosen my seat strategically -visible enough to participate fully, but not so central as to draw unnecessary attention.
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9:23 Fri, Oct 3
Chapter 267
‘Is this seat taken?‘ asked a soft voice.
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I looked up to find a young woman with a short bob of dark hair and glasses perched on her nose, gesturing to the stool beside mine.
“Not at all, I said, shifting my things to make room.
“Thanks,” she said, settling beside me. I’m Mia.”
‘Rebecca,‘ I replied with a smile.
“First time at City Arts?” she asked, unpacking her own supplies with practiced efficiency.
“First time in a long time,” I clarified. “You?*
“Third semester,” Mia said. “I’m focusing on sustainable fashion design. You?”
“I’m still exploring, I admitted. “Though I’m drawn to eveningwear and special occasion pieces.”
Mia nodded appreciatively. “Cool. We should collaborate sometime. I’m working on eco–friendly formal fabrics for my thesis project.”
Before I could respond, the studio door opened, and Professor Jones strode in, her presence immediately commanding attention. The room fell silent as she moved to the front, surveying the class with those piercing amber eyes.
“Welcome to Contemporary Design Principles,” she began without preamble. “For those of you new to my classes, I’m Professor Elaine Jones. I expect punctuality, preparedness, and professionalism. Her gaze swept the room. “I also expect creativity, risk–taking, and a willingness to push boundaries.”
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