"He might be good at his job, but when it comes to fashion? Not so much. Besides, I rarely find the time," Gerard responded with a shrug.

"Jerrold and I typically grab the first thing we see. I mean, you wouldn't want us walking around in rags, would you?" He gave her a playful, pleading look.

She chuckled, rolling her eyes. It was clear as day that their wardrobe choices, despite their simplicity, were top-tier and tailor-made. Yet, he made it sound like a last-minute spree? However, she had noticed their usual monochromatic choices. Given their striking looks, they could easily pull off a more varied palette. After a moment's contemplation, she sighed, taking the card. “Okay, deal."

With the night rolling in, they headed back to have a rest.

Morning brought the final round of the competition. Before things kicked off, Lilah sought out Phoebe, who seemed lost in a world of jitters, pacing near a window. "That nervous, huh?"

Hearing that, Phoebe spun around, her face lighting up upon seeing Lilah. "Oh! What a surprise. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Just wanted to see how you're holding up. Honestly, from what I've seen, you've grown leaps and bounds. I genuinely believe you have a shot at the top three, if not the championship." Lilah offered her perspective.

Phoebe's face softened, gratitude evident in her eyes. "I owe it all to you. Everything I've picked up during my stint at the company?

That's your influence. I promise to give it my all."

Lilah offered an encouraging squeeze to her shoulder. “Just breathe and be yourself. Remember, just by being here, you're ahead of so many."

Phoebe looked up, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you. I'll keep my head in the game."

They exchanged a few more words before Lilah left, leaving a somewhat calmer Phoebe behind.

A knock pulled Phoebe from her thoughts. Opening the door, she found herself face-to-face with none other than Lorena Bauer.

Lorena was something of a sensation in this competition. Having clinched the top spot in the semifinals, many whispered she was the one to beat.

Yet, despite her status, Lorena was grounded and kind-hearted. It was why Phoebe respected her.

Peering with genuine concern, Lorena asked, "You skipped breakfast, didn't you? What happened?"

A sheepish grin spread on Phoebe's face. “Overslept. And nerves, you know? My stomach's doing somersaults.”

Lorena sighed in understanding, pulling out a parcel from her bag.

“Here, I brought some bread. You might be a favorite of mine in this competition, but you'll need energy. Imagine your stomach growling in the middle of your presentation!"

Taking the bread, Phoebe mumbled a soft "thank you". As the two designers shared the meal, the air around them grew warmer. It only added to Phoebe's high opinion of Lorena.

Taking a moment, Phoebe hesitated before sharing a thought. “You have an incredible foundation in design, Lorena. But if I may, I feel like a hint of freshness could make your work even more appealing.

Especially to the younger crowd.”

Lorena considered this for a moment, nodding slowly. "That's valid feedback. Thanks for being candid."

Phoebe exhaled, having anticipated a more defensive response. It was clear to her that Lorena, with her maturity and skill, had great promise in the design world.