My stomach flutters as I imagine their reactions. Will they understand what we've tried to create? The long hours, the creative struggles, distilled into this collection. More than clothes—a vision of who we are. Strong, united, invincible.
I want them to see it, to feel it like we do. To run their fingers over the fabrics and find meaning in each cut, each seam. We're revealing a part of ourselves in an entirely new way. And it terrifies me as much as it exhilarates me.
"This is it," Devon says, with a deep breath. Side by side, we step forward, ready to unveil our new baby.
Thebuzz of conversation fills the loft as members of the Snakes and Brixtons arrive, as well as Dimitri and his team. I peek through the curtains, taking in their curious expressions. Skyler's gaze sweeps over the space, the runway, the decorations.
"This place looks amazing," he says. "You two did all this?"
I step out from behind the curtain, nerves making my lips quirk into a timid smile. "Yeah, lots of late nights. But it's worth it."
Brick grins, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Look at us, taking a break from torture for fashion." He strikes a pose with his big hulking frame and I can’t help but laugh, easing some of my tension. Thank goodness for Brick’s humor in moments like these.
I laugh under my breath, the sound strained. My palms tingle and I rub them against my jeans. This is it. The moment we reveal ourselves.
Devon steps onto the small stage, commanding the attention of the room. I stand beside her, my pulse hammering in my ears.
A hush falls over the group as all eyes turn our way.
"Thank you all for coming," Devon begins. "Angel and I have been working on something special..."
Her voice fades into the background as I study their faces—skepticism mingling with intrigue. This is our chance to show them who we are. Beyond the violence, the darkness, there is so much more. Creativity, passion, vision. I’ve been able to channel a lot of that into my salon, but this… this is entirely new territory.
My heart thrums with anticipation. We poured our souls into this collection. Now comes the moment of truth—will they understand? Will they see us in a new light? Will they come out of tonight believing in us?
I cling to Devon's words like a lifeline. This is just the beginning, I tell myself. Today we take the first step toward real connection and a positive entrepreneurial venture. Toward understanding the light that exists beneath the shadows.
Devon's voice rises with conviction as she concludes her opening remarks. "We wanted to create something that represents all of us—our strength, our resilience,our unity."
I take a deep, steadying breath as the first model steps onto the makeshift runway. She's wearing a racerback sports bra with mesh and lace and faux leather, and matching bicycle shorts. The color palette is dark grays and black with pops of bright neon pink and yellow.
"Each piece is designed with you in mind," Devon pronounces. "Strong, ready for anything. When wearing any of our pieces, they should help you to feel like you could take on a fierce workout, a boardroom meeting, running errands, or finally tackling that project you've been putting off."
The model stalks down the runway, confidence in her stride. As she turns, the tailored lines of the outfit accentuate her curvy form. She looks strong, capable, comfortable in her own skin. Appreciative murmurs ripple through the audience.
Our creations come to life, imbuing those who wear them with a subtle power. More models follow, showcasing pieces blending elegance and durability. Faux leather merges with more lace. More dark hues mix with vibrant pops of color. The clothing pieces move with our models as they walk and pose, light and fluid.
I scan the audience, reading their reactions.
Skyler's eyes widen in interest.
Brick nods in grudging approval. "This racerback top...it's pretty badass."
My heart swelling, I address the group. "We wanted to create something that makes you feel invincible. Something that represents who we are. Women, empowered and strong, unapologetically unafraid to be who we are at our very core."
I meet Devon's eyes, shining with triumph. No matter their reception, we've unveiled our vision. Our true selves. And we have plenty more ideas where these ones came from.
The models exit the runway to applause and chatter. The audience moves in to examine the collection up close, their hands gliding over fabrics, fingers testing the fabrics. I drift through the space, a butterfly fluttering from flower to flower as I explain my inspirations.
"The lining is tear-resistant but breathable," I tell Skyler as he tests the sleeve of a workout top. “Moisture-wicking and cooling while you wear it.”
Zeke runs an appraising hand over a pair of yoga pants. "This material, it's durable yet lightweight. How'd you source it?"
"Lots of research," I reply with a smile. "We wanted gear that could withstand anything."
As I connect with them over each piece, their body language opens up. Guards drop, shoulders relax. We find common ground in the clothes' simple functionality.
The hard shells they wear to survive this harsh world transform into something more. Armor infused with creativity, with meaning. With me—and with Devon.