The Red Thread

Chapter 1

Becoming a successful fashion line CEO is my dream,that I realized through relentless determination, innovation, and unwavering passion. As I embarked on this journey, I understood that the fashion industry is both fiercely competitive and constantly evolving. It demanded not only an eye for style but also a keen understanding of business strategy.

I started my own fashion line ChicVoyage along with my best friend Lily Martin. She's my Co CEO as well. Meeting my best friend, whose parents are also close friends with my own, was a delightful encounter filled with a sense of familiarity and warmth.

Growing up with my best friend was a journey filled with shared adventures, laughter, and valuable life lessons. Our experiences together wove the fabric of a friendship that seemed to only grow stronger with time.We celebrated each other's successes, whether it was acing a test, winning a sports competition, or landing that first part-time job. We were each other's cheerleaders, offering unwavering support and encouragement.

My relationship with my parents David and Aurora Wilson and elder brother Christian Wilson is a source of enduring strength and profound love, creating a beautiful and tightly-knit family bond. The connection with my parents  is built on mutual respect and the knowledge that their love is an unshakable constant in my life.My brother and I have shared countless memorable moments, from sibling rivalries to profound heart-to-heart conversations, all of which have fortified our bond.

Right now I'm on my way to my home after returning from a fashion week in Paris. I still live my family and I'm not ashamed of it. My home is located in Upper East Side of New York. The moment I step into the area, I'm greeted by the grandeur of stately mansions, tree-lined streets, and a sense of opulence that permeates the atmosphere.My  home is a haven of comfort and sophistication. It's a place where old-world charm meets modern convenience, with meticulously curated interiors that reflect their refined taste. The inviting ambiance makes me feel both welcomed and pampered.

Entering into the living room, I see my mother and sister-in-law Sofia Wilson sitting on one of the couches and talking about something. Sofia and Christian met at a mutual friend's barbecue party and hit it off instantly. Their journey from that chance encounter at a summer barbecue to becoming an inseparable couple was a heartwarming testament to the beauty of unexpected love. They have a 3 year old beautiful boy Evan and are expecting their second child soon. Sofia is a positive person and over the years she became a sister to me.

Walking further into the room,my eyes met my mother's warm and loving gaze. Her smile was a reassuring welcome, and the familiarity of her presence instantly put me at ease. She walked towards me and engulfed me in a hug.
" I missed you my baby girl " my mom said kissing my cheek. She released me from the hug and took my hands into hers.

"I missed you too mom". I've just returned from a fashion week in Paris and these trips make me miss spending time with my family. I've spent four years in Paris away from my family to pursue my fashion degree. Leaving my family behind to pursue my fashion degree in the enchanting city of Paris was a whirlwind of emotions. The distance from my family weighed on my heart, but video calls became our lifeline. Their unwavering support and encouragement fueled my determination.

Lily and I were inseparable. We attended the same classes, sat side by side in design studios, and even embarked on the same exhilarating adventures across the city. Paris became our playground, and we explored every nook and cranny, from hidden patisseries to charming bookshops along the Seine.Paris had taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of embracing new experiences.

Reuniting with my mom and my sister-in-law after a month was a heartwarming moment. As we gathered in the living room, there was an air of excitement and anticipation that filled the space.As we settled into comfortable chairs, I began sharing my experiences. From the fashion week I had attended to the enchanting streets of Paris, I painted a vivid picture of my journey. Sofia was genuinely interested, asking questions about the places I had visited, and my mom was beaming with pride as I spoke about my designs and the fashion week.

The moment my father entered the room with my nephew Evan, there was a sense of joy and liveliness that filled the air. It was a delightful interruption to our conversation, and I couldn't have been happier to see them."Look who's here, Dad!" I exclaimed, my eyes lighting up as I noticed Evan's wide, innocent eyes and infectious smile.My father chuckled and said, "Hey princess, We thought we'd join the family gathering. Evan was eager to see his favorite aunt."  Evan, still holding my father's hand, greeted me with an enthusiastic smile , "Hi, Aunt Addy!". I couldn't resist pulling him into a warm hug and kissed his cheek , "Hi, Evan! I've missed you, buddy."

My brother's arrival added an extra layer of excitement to our family gathering. As he entered the room, I couldn't help but smile.My brother greeted me with a wide grin and a hug, "Addy, you're glowing. How's Paris?". "It's been amazing," I replied, "But I've missed you all."

I went to my room and changed into something comfortable . The room has remained the same since my childhood but the size of the wardrobe has been increased and a few new furniturewas added. I went downstairs and joined my family in the living room and soon my mother called us for dinner.

The dinner table felt heavy with unspoken tension, and I could tell that my family had something difficult to discuss. I braced myself for the conversation I had been dreading.My father cleared his throat and began, "Audrey, we need to talk about an arranged marriage proposal for you.It's with a young man you know—  Asher Carter".