The Flower That Grew from Ashes novel Chapter 209

"Anne, what's wrong?" Sophia asked after finishing unloading the cargo, noticing Annelise zoning out at the letter. "Did the letter say something bad? You look pale."

Annelise gently folded the letter and slid it back into the envelope.

She was silent for a moment before she spoke, her voice steady.

"Sophia, Emma, come here."

The two women gathered around.

"I've made a decision," Annelise said. "When the studio opens, we're not just going to be Daisy anymore."

"I'm registering a new brand."

"What brand?" Emma asked.

Staring at the light pouring through the window, Annelise slowly pronounced the word.

"Sargent."

"Sargent was my mother's maiden name, and it is my surname."

"This brand will focus on international floral design, licensing, exhibitions, and training. Daisy Flower will be its foundation, but this brand will grow into places Daisy could never fit."

The studio went silent for a second.

Suddenly, Sophia leaped into the air in excitement.

"Oh my god! Anne! That's exactly what you need!" She grabbed Annelise's arm. "I've always said you shouldn't be cooped up in a little shop! Sargent! It's perfect!"

Emma, more practical, was already running the numbers.

"Registering an international brand means we have to check for existing trademarks," Emma said rapidly. "We'll have to file in Norway, the EU, and probably even Asia. It's a long process, but it's doable. I'll talk to our lawyer tomorrow."

"Good," Annelise nodded. "Money isn't an issue. The account I've been saving in for three years was made for this exact moment."

She carefully placed the letter into her purse, tucking it close to her chest.

Upstairs, the sound of Yves and the contractor discussing the skylight drifted down.

Annelise walked over to the staircase and called up.

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