Dàliá fashion company is the queen of the fashion world. Just like in chess, it is nothing but elegant and strategic. Famous for it's luxurious fabrics and bold designs, it's fame is only slightly surpassed by her daunting prince, Jare. With eyes the colour of flame and hair the darkest shade of red, it's a miracle the fire alarm doesn't go off every time he steps foot into a room.

Landing a job as a designer for a company as prestigious as Dàliá, was nothing short of a dream come true for Abigail. The culmination of years of hard work and determination finally setting in, she could feel nothing but pride as she paraded the opulent foyer, walking towards her cubicle.

But somehow, despite her handwork, she still couldn't shake off the feeling of unease as if she didn't belong where she was. Surrounded by the world of the elite, only two weeks in, Abigail was sure she was in for a real bumpy ride. Anxiety started setting in, and she could feel herself breathing heavier. After years of failure, there was nothing that could confront Abigail's doubt about herself, or so she thought.

Startled by a voice behind her, she turned around to see Jare standing there, his expression unreadable as he regarded her with a mix of curiosity and intrigue. As if seeing him for the first time, she couldn't help being lost in his fiery eyes. Well, tehnically she was seeing him for the first time... this up close, at least. 

Clearing his throat,"Abigail. Right? I've got a challenge for you" he said. His voice smooth and confident. "The debut design for the summer season, I want you to compete for it."

Abigail's heart skipped a beat at the unexpected proposition. She had barely spoken to Jare since starting at Dàliá, and yet here he was, offering her a chance to prove herself on the grandest stage of all. Almost as if he was setting her up for something, for something... messy.

"A challenge?" she echoed, her voice barely above a whisper, doubt filling her heart.

Jare nodded firmly, his gaze unwavering as he met her eyes. "I want to see what you're capable of..." he said "... And I think you have what it takes to win this. I have seen your designs, and I trust you're capable." he smiled, shining his pearly whites.

Inwardly squinting on instinct, blinded by the sun-like image in front of her, Abigail thought on the words she had just heard: Trust- that word hung heavy in Abigail's mind. After all, trust had never come easily to her. But there was something about Jare's earnestness, his unwavering, rigid belief in her, that made her want to take the leap.

"O-okay," she said, "I'll do it." Her voice stronger this time.

As Jare's smile lit up his face once more, Abigail couldn't help, but feel a flicker of hope within her. Maybe, just maybe, this could be the opportunity she had been waiting for—the chance to prove herself worthy of her position. 

And with that, Abigail knew there was no going back.