CEO’s Regret After I Divorced (Serena and Ryan) novel Chapter 275

Chapter 275: Chapter 275 The Kruse Offer

Serena’s POV

I’d barely sat down and exchanged pleasantries when she slid the sketches across the table. They were evening gown designs, each one more exquisite than the last. Kruse was famous for their formal wear, with each season’s limited pieces becoming instant must-haves among society women.

The sketches showed remarkable attention to detail—intricate beadwork patterns, clever structural elements, and flattering silhouettes.

"Are these for Fashion Week?" I asked, examining the detailed pencil work.

Zara smiled enigmatically. "Good eye. These are indeed Kruse’s preparations for tomorrow’s showcase."

I froze, my coffee cup halfway to my lips. Even for tomorrow’s show, these designs should be highly confidential. Why was she showing them to me? The gesture made no sense.

As if reading my thoughts, Zara leaned forward. "Mrs. Quinn, please don’t misunderstand. I’m showing you these because I feel something’s missing. I was hoping you might offer some insight."

Her eyes met mine, and I couldn’t decide if this was a genuine request for collaboration or something else entirely.

"You want my opinion?" I asked, unable to hide my surprise. "On designs you’re presenting tomorrow?"

Zara tucked a strand of vibrant red hair behind her ear, leaning forward with an intensity that felt both flattering and slightly unnerving. "Precisely. I’ve hit a creative wall with these pieces, and honestly, Lazuli’s perspective might be exactly what I need."

I studied the sketches more carefully now. The gowns were undeniably beautiful—elegant lines, dramatic silhouettes, the kind of pieces that would make entrance statements at galas and red carpets. But I immediately saw what she meant about something missing.

"They’re exquisite, but..." I hesitated, not wanting to overstep.

"Please, be candid," Zara urged. "That’s exactly why I wanted to speak with you."

I took a deep breath. "They’re technically perfect, but they feel... safe. Like something Kruse has done before." I pointed to one particular design. "This neckline, for instance—it’s beautiful, but it’s become a Kruse signature. Fashion Week audiences expect surprise, something that makes them gasp."

Zara’s eyes widened slightly, then she broke into a slow smile. "That’s exactly what’s been bothering me. Too familiar."

For the next hour, we bounced ideas back and forth, sketching modifications on napkins and talking about everything from fabric choices to styling. I found myself genuinely enjoying Zara’s company—she was smart, quick-witted, and refreshingly direct.

"You know," she said as she stirred her second cappuccino, "when I suggested this meeting, I had an ulterior motive beyond just getting your opinion."

"Oh?" I raised an eyebrow, suddenly wary. 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝘦𝘸𝑒𝒷𝓃ℴ𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝒸ℴ𝘮

"Kruse is looking to expand our accessories line. Your jewelry designs would complement our evening wear perfectly." She leaned forward. "I’m thinking a limited collaboration—Dreamland Studio creates exclusive pieces for the Kruse winter collection. The timing with Fashion Week couldn’t be better for an announcement."

My mind raced with possibilities. A collaboration with Kruse would accelerate Dreamland’s entrance into the London market exponentially. It was the kind of opportunity designers dreamed about.

"That’s... quite an offer," I said carefully, trying to contain my excitement. "I’d need to discuss it with my team, of course."

"Of course," Zara nodded. "But I’d love your initial thoughts."

"Honestly? I think it could be brilliant," I admitted. "Our aesthetics are different enough to create something fresh, but complementary enough to make sense."

As we continued talking, I couldn’t help thinking about Ryan’s reaction. He’d be thrilled—this was exactly the kind of strategic partnership that could establish Dreamland’s London branch firmly in the market. I made a mental note to call him tonight, already imagining his proud smile.

When we finally parted ways, exchanging numbers and promises to meet again after Fashion Week, I practically floated back to our preparation area. Maya caught sight of my expression immediately.

I grinned. "Exactly what I thought! We’re still in early discussions, but it feels promising."

"You’re incredible, you know that?" The pride in his voice made my chest warm. "Not even officially launched in London yet, and you’re already securing major collaborations."

"Don’t get too excited—it’s not a done deal," I cautioned, though I couldn’t keep the excitement from my own voice. "How’s Vivian?"

"Missing her mother. She keeps staring at your photo on my phone." There was a rustle, and I imagined him peering into the nursery. "She’s sleeping now, but she’s been extra fussy today."

A pang of longing shot through me. "I miss her so much. Give her extra kisses from me."

"Every morning and night," he promised. "Have you been taking your medicine?"

"Yes, Dr. Blackwood," I teased. "And eating properly, and not overworking."

"Liar," he said, but I could hear the smile in his voice. "I know exactly how you get before a big show."

We talked for another half hour before I reluctantly admitted I needed sleep. Fashion Week officially began tomorrow, and I needed to be at my sharpest.

"I love you," Ryan said softly. "Call me after the show."

"I will. Love you too."

As I drifted off to sleep that night, my mind swirled with jewelry designs that would complement Kruse gowns, business expansion plans, and the sweet memory of Ryan’s face when he’d surprised me in London. Everything was falling into place perfectly.