Chapter 42 - Preparing for Paris
The preparation for the Louvre exhibition was a monumental undertaking. For six weeks, Karen and her team of young designers worked tirelessly in the expanded Alder Street workshop, cutting, sewing, and refining every single garment to absolute perfection.
Ambrose Calvano visited the shop frequently during those weeks, often bringing coffee and quietly observing Karen as she worked with absolute, meditative focus.
"You know," Ambrose remarked one evening as the shop closed its doors, "sending you to Paris feels like sending a master tactician into enemy territory. Though this time, they're welcoming you with open arms."
Karen set down her silver shears and smiled, leaning against the cutting table. "I'm not going to conquer Paris this time, Ambrose. I'm going to share our story."
Ambrose walked closer, his gray eyes softening with a deep, profound respect. "Your father would be so proud of you, Karen. You took the ashes of everything he lost and turned them into a crown."
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"I didn't do it alone," Karen replied softly, meeting his gaze. "You stood beside me when everyone else walked away."
"I told you from the beginning," Ambrose said, his voice dropping to a warm, gentle register. "You won the war. I was just proud to hold the line."
