
A pair of black beads sitting on the judges' thrones gaped in disbelief as they learned Jihan had entered the competition and had even become a champion. His gaze continued to move following the confident steps of Jihan even though her face looked sad.
"Wow, very young as it turns out. Congratulations Miss Anastasia." The clapping of hands echoed.
The chief organizer handed over the trophy, wore a ribbon sash and handed the prize symbolically. Jihan's body shook on stage. Absolutely unexpected in the midst of his insecure taste.
"Congratulations!" said the middle-aged man after handing over all the gifts while shaking his hand.
"Thank you" said Jihan Lirih.
Again the ballroom was filled with thunderous applause from the other participants who reached 100 participants.
"Alright, please convey a few words about your work that some judges think is very aesthetic and seems to have a living soul" the host said thrusting a mic at Jihan.
The woman accepted it with a slight nod. He cleared his throat to neutralize his voice. His body was still trembling violently as it was truly unexpected to be able to defeat tens or even a hundred other participants.
Jihan took a deep breath, bringing the loudspeaker closer to her mouth. His lips were still trembling, even his tears were still pouring out.
"I was completely moved at once unexpectedly. Though from the beginning already feel insecure and do not expect more. But it turns out, God's ordinance is so beautiful. When I was at my lowest point because of the many boutiques that underestimate my works, here I could break all their views. Big thanks to the organizer." Jihan bowed for a moment.
Then he stood up again and his eyes were watering again. One hand clasped the chalice tightly, looked at her and said, "This is my present for my beloved daughter. Which has always been my support system, which has always been my passion to keep working hard. Cheryl, Mama did it, son!" Jihan sobbed and her voice surged.
One of the management approached, thrusting a tissue and hugging it from the side. For a few moments, silent and without the slightest sound. Just waiting for Jihan to calm down. Then he returned to voice after some time.
"The second, thank you to my husband. Because without it I might not be able to create these ideas. He is my source of inspiration. This dress is dark-themed, the neck and shoulder shape is firm, according to the character of my husband. The back tail dangles and blooms like an umbrella, just like my husband who always protects his loved ones in his own way." Jihan pointed at the parts of the dress the model was wearing with trembling hands.
She closed her eyes, pictured her husband, breathing heavily. "And the diamond accents on the chest, indicating that in the darkness, there will be a speck of light of hope. In that case, I hope, my husband soon wakes up from his long sleep and shouts proudly of having me. Thank you," Jihan concluded. She was afraid that talking too much would blow her tears.
As if drugged with every sentence of Jihan, everything was still silent. Until one of the judges did a standing applause, which was followed by another jury. Also stood up to applause and ended up very lively by everyone present.
Jihan is welcome to the back of the stage, to receive the next step explanation. And the event continued with entertainment filled by homeland bands.
He sat alone, contemplating over all that had just been received. Suddenly someone sat beside him, thrusting a handkerchief.
"Thank you, but I don't need it. It turns out you're the judge" Jihan said without looking at her.
"I'm also the producer of this show! This is the company's agenda every five years to develop the talents of a designer. And I didn't expect it with your pent-up talent. A touch of love that can make a work. Cool! I'm sure the boutique owners who rejected you yesterday will regret it" the man said.
"How is he doing?" Jihan ignored the compliment, asking another question.
The man's lips, which had been smiling widely, were now back together. "Your husband was taken to Palembang!"
Jihan looked over quickly. "Is he okay?" tanyanya's worried.
"Mmm .. According to the report I heard, there is still no change. Why don't you just go see him? Who knows, you'll notice soon after hearing your voice, or your daughter's," the man suggested wisely.
A heavy sigh was exhaled by Jihan. He leaned his back, "I'm not ready. I am gathering strength to meet him. Someday, if I'm already a successful person, maybe I'll just meet him."
"Why? Isn't it the same?" the man folded his hands on his chest.
"Surely different, Zero. If I meet him when I'm successful, at least he'll be proud of me. I can't just whine spoiled like I used to. I'm ready to compete with the women who want it. Erent's presence whipped up my spirit to change, from zero to hero. However, if that time comes he is already with another woman, at least he will regret it," said Jihan laughing but with eyes dewy again.
"I'm sure you can be a great woman. Once honed again your skills and abilities, will be an extraordinary work. Because you can pour every emotion into your design. One year in Paris, you will also learn to design digitally. So, take advantage of this opportunity well. Congratulations!" said Zero extending her hand.
Jihan squinted her eyes, "Are you on purpose?" investigation suspects.
Zero raised both his hands. "You didn't use your real name, how do I know?" the answer is upset.
Then turned to look at Bima who brought some documents of the winners, to take care of passports, visas and residences while in Paris. Who immediately bowed before the two.
"Hi, Jihan. Long time no see. It's getting pretty!" praise Bima who immediately got a sharp shot from the owner of the name. "Weiit, relax, relax! Prepare all the documents. Tomorrow I'll take you to the immigration office" he continued in serious fashion.
"I have to bring my daughter," Jihan asked.
Connect~