Makin’ the Cut

by Rennie Rivera

  “Thanks again. First things first though. I need to get through this round of the competition.” I hug her and go back to setting up my station.

  I glance through the mirror and watch as Momma hugs Lukah. Thick as thieves already those two. I’m in trouble there I think, smiling to myself as I notice Lukah coming my way.

  “A kiss for luck?” I ask.

  “Absolutely.” He smiles.

  He pulls me into his arms for the most sensual, soft, romantic kiss yet. It’s one like you see in the movies, where the girl’s foot raises behind her. Breathtakingly perfect. I feel all his emotion in that one kiss.

  Panting, trying to catch my breath as he pulled away, all I can murmur is, “Wow.”

  “Knock em’ dead, baby doll.” He smiles. And with that he strides away.

  Suddenly, I snap back to the reality of the hustle and bustle of the stations. Designers are buzzing around applying last touches. I see my models approaching, fully dressed with hair and makeup too and get a jolt of excitement. They look fabulous in my creations.

  “Bitch, I make this look good.” Fia smiles.

  “Yeah, now that I altered it to fit you and your personality. Erica and Joshua, you both look phenomenal too, by the way. How do they feel? Do I need to pin anything?”

  Erica looks down. “Nope, not for me. It fits perfect. Savy, I’m so impressed with this ensemble. It’s definitely something I’d wear regularly. I’ll be buying this off of you when this is all over.”

  Joshua nods. “Oh girl, I want to buy mine too. This is something I’ll cherish; no one’s ever made something to represent me. We’re about to blow the others out of the water.”

  “Five minutes, Savy,” Izzy hollers back to us.

  I give them a little pep talk. “Okay, guys, here we go. No matter what happens, I’m so glad we’re in this together. Erica, Joshua, you’re two people I’ll definitely be working with in the future. Even if this doesn’t pan out, I plan to have my own business. I’ll need models for my website. Now let’s hug it out then go out there and show them what we’ve got.”

  We share a group hug and they line up in the order we set. Here goes nothing.

  * * *

  LUKAH

  “And our last designer tonight is Savannah Johnson and her three unique creations,” I announce and then glance up to see that Erica’s ready for her introductions.

  “First up is Erica. Erica’s wearing a custom piece. As a college student, she likes to be comfortable but always look her best without trying. A beautiful, breezy, floral pair of satin overall shorts paired with a lavender halter top to give it that playful yet sophisticated look. Now she’s ready for her morning class, a brunch date, or just a day in the sun. Ladies and gentlemen, Erica. Thank you, Erica.”

  A round of applause follows as she leaves the stage and Joshua takes his mark.

  “Next up is Joshua. Joshua is all work, no play most days. Joshua is always casual business, ready for any curve ball thrown his way. Board meetings, client lunches, and dinners too. Tonight, he’s sporting a pair of relaxed fit, patchwork, jeans accompanied by a nice pastel pink polo and a vest with matching patchwork pockets. Now he is both professional and relaxed. Ladies and gentlemen, Joshua. Thank you, Joshua.”

  Another round of applause for him as he leaves the stage with a bow. I watch as Fia fidgets before taking her place on the mark.

  “Last, but certainly not least, we have Sofia. Sofia is always up for a party. This is a unique twist to the evening gown. Whether it be a company fundraising ball, a casual dinner party, or just a fun night on the town. Sofia is dressed in a teal, sequined, two-piece ball gown. As you can see, it can be worn as a one piece, connected with small hidden snaps.”

  Sofia pops open the snaps to show off the two-piece affect.

  “But after dinner, if she wants to go out for a night of dancing, no need to run home and change. Just pop a few snaps at the waist and snap a few pieces at the thigh and you have a halter top with a matching skirt that has a slit up to the thigh. Why carry extra clothes when you can alter what you have? Ladies and Gentlemen, Sofia. Thank you, Sofia.” I clap.

  Sofia stops just before the curtains and takes a couple of extra bows at the thunderous applause she receives. Yep, just like Savy said, she’s an attention whore.

  “Now to introduce you to the brains behind the beauty. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Savannah Johnson herself.”

  With tears in her eyes, Savy walks out onto the stage, waving and taking a bow. As she exits the stage, she mouths, “Thank you. I love you,” before disappearing backstage.

  “Ladies and Gentlemen, I’ll give you a few moments to discuss and cast your votes. Please let Isabelle know when you have reached a decision. Designers, please follow me backstage as we await the decision.” I exit the stage and go in search of Savy.

  Walking up behind her, I wrap my arms around her. “You did it, baby doll. Those looked fantastic. Now, we wait for the decision.”

  She squeals in my arms, spinning around to face me. I kiss her forehead and just hold her a few moments.

  “Lukah, they’re ready,” Izzy whispers as she passes us and informs everyone, “Designers, please take your places on the stage. The judges have reached their decision.”

  We all walk out, me taking my place at the podium to open the envelope and announce the three finalists that are moving on to the next round. Rhen passes me the envelopes and stands beside me with the flowers for each winner in his hands as Izzy too joins us at the podium. She holds the prize checks in her hands to give out.

  “Ladies and gentlemen, this was a tough decision for our judges as we have some phenomenal talent here tonight. Let me just remind you of the prizes. Along with advancing to the next round, each place will receive a prize check. Third place receives five thousand, second place receives ten thousand and first place receives fifteen thousand. Okay once I call your name, please join us up here,” I remind them.

  Looking around, I observe all the designers holding hands with each other, including Savy. I love that they aren’t alienating her because of what Lindsey did.

  Realizing I’m staring, I clear my throat and continue. “Ahem, okay let’s find out who the winners of this round are, shall we? Third prize goes to Vince Humphrey. Congratulations, Vince.”

  He steps up, shaking our hands and expressing thanks as he takes his flowers and check before stepping to the side.

  “Second prize goes to Savannah Johnson. Congratulations, Savannah.” I announce.

  A look of pure shock crosses her face before she walks up, shaking our hands. She then hugs each of us, accepting her flowers and check, then takes her place next to Vince with tears streaming down her face. Looking out, I catch Momma grinning from ear to ear as she and Fia stand watching the results. A look of pride and love crosses their faces as they watch her settle in place.

  I continue. “And last but certainly not least, first place goes to Olivia Stewart. Congratulations, Olivia.”

  Olivia starts jumping up and down. She comes running up and hugs me then Rhen and Izzy too. They hand her flowers and check. As she takes her place next to Savy, she pulls Savy in for a hug.

  “You all did so well tonight. We invite all of you to stay and enjoy the hotel and join us for the final debut show at the end of this competition. Congratulations once again to our top three winners. But it isn’t over yet.”

  The other contestants clap for their fellow designers.

  “Now for the next leg of this competition, you’ll need to design one single outfit. You’ll be able to pick the model of your choice. You’ve three days to create this garment. But I’d like to also request that you start sketching for the final show, just in case. If you make it to the final three, you’ll be ahead of the game.”

  Izzy adds. “Also, don’t forget that you’re being monitored and watched. So, we ask that you’re to continue respecting the contest rules. You’re also welcome to have any of the other designers assist you.
And this next thing is for all the designers, even those who didn’t advance to the next leg of the competition. You never know who’s paying attention. You may be approached by someone who wants to invest in you. Stay on your “A” game and be team players.”

  Everyone disburses and Savy jumps into my arms with glee. “I did it! I advanced. Thank you for not giving up on me, any of you.” She looks at Momma, Rhen, and Fia.

  “Let’s go, baby, you have three days to design the best garment ever. And if I’m reading your face correctly, you already know what it is,” I say.

  “Yep, Sofia, get ready. You’re my model and it’s going to be your wedding gown. I mean, that’s if you don’t mind Rhen seeing it already,” Savy replies.

  “Bitch, we’re in no way traditional or superstitious. Let’s do it.” Fia smiles.

  We head up to our suite where I already arranged for champagne and dinner to be delivered. Savy is back and better than ever.

  Tonight, we celebrate. Tomorrow she’ll sketch and sew. Because my girl is makin’ the cut.

  23

  Savannah

  Second place, wow. I honestly didn’t think I’d finish in the top three because of how basic Joshua’s ensemble looked. Although, he and I knew that it was anything but basic. I can’t believe Erica and Joshua want to buy the outfits I made for them. I have a better idea though.

  “Izzy, do you think I’d get in trouble if I gifted the outfits, the ones I made for the first round, to the models who wore them?” I inquire.

  “No, there are no rules saying you can’t. Why?” She replies.

  “Erica and Joshua mentioned earlier they wanted to buy the outfits I made them, but I’d like to gift it to them instead. I’m going to text them and ask them to come up here, they should be here celebrating with us. They’re part of why I won.”

  Me: Hey guys, come up to our suite. You should be celebrating with us. Plus, I have a gift for you both.

  Erica: Are you sure? We don’t want to intrude.

  Me: Of course, I’m sure. You guys rocked my clothes and that’s also part of why I won.

  Joshua: Aww, we’ll be right up though for sure, but you didn’t have to get us anything.

  Me: Ok awesome, see you soon.

  “They’re on their way up,” I tell everyone.

  Lukah wraps his arm around my shoulders and pulls me tight against him. “I’m in such awe of you. You prevailed when you didn’t think you could. This round you won second, next round I’m rooting for first. Baby doll, you’re meant for big things. Thank you for letting me be a part of the ride.”

  Gazing into his gorgeous hazel eyes, I kiss him softly and sensually. “Thank you for not giving up on me. I love you.”

  “I’m glad to see you worked through that nasty Lindsey business. I was worried I was going to have to give you a reality check,” Momma comments as she walks past us.

  I get up and hug her. “Thank you, Momma, for not minding your own business and for seeing what I didn’t want to. I love and appreciate you.”

  Rhen gets up laughing and answers the knock. “Sis, we all saw what you didn’t.”

  “Seriously? Was I that oblivious?” I blush.

  Lukah kisses the top of my head. “Yes, baby, you were.”

  We all laugh at my blindness. I love my circle. Erica and Joshua follow Rhen in, joining us in the living room.

  “Hey guys, have a seat. You know Izzy, Lukah and Fia. This is my Momma, Deb, and Fia’s fiancé, Rhen.” I introduce everyone.

  Everyone waves their hellos as I get up.

  “Let me get your gifts while Lukah gets you some champagne.” Running into the bedroom, I grab the garment bags from the closet with their names still on them from the show.

  Walking back out, Erica sees what I’m carrying and her eyes bulge with surprise. “No, no, no. You have to let me pay you for that.”

  “I custom made these to fit you each individually. Yes, I won because of my designs, but also because of how you wore them. I’d be honored if you accepted these as gifts of my appreciation.”

  Joshua is the first to accept. “I’d be honored to accept and wear these. Girl, I’m telling all my friends about you. I’m also gonna need some business cards to hand out. You’re gonna blow up the fashion scene.”

  Erica shakes her head in agreement. “I’m honored. I too want some business cards. My friends will be so jealous when they see this outfit.”

  “That means the world to me, guys. Thank you. As soon as I have some business cards, you’ll definitely get some. Are you guys sticking around for the rest of the competition?”

  Erica nods as Joshua comments, “Girl, yes, we want to watch you kill it next round. You’ve got yourself your own little fan squad. Then when you get the grand prize, we want to help you with the debut show.”

  Tears roll down my face as I smile at my newfound friends. “You guys are some of the best people a girl could ask for. I’m so thankful for the new friendships I’ve already made and the family I’m surrounded by. I love you guys.”

  We sit around laughing and sharing silly stories, celebrating the win and planning for the next round. I know that this one design has to be the best and that is why I chose to use Fia’s wedding gown. The design I have for it is definitely my best work. So, I don’t even need to sketch, which means I can sleep in, snuggled up to Lukah a little longer. His arms are my favorite place to be.

  “Baby, are you ready for bed?” I ask. “I hate to be a party pooper, but I’m exhausted. My adrenaline has died down.”

  Lukah nods. “Yeah, of course. Besides, you need your rest so that tomorrow you can get started on your next creation.”

  “Goodnight, everyone, I love you all. Thank you for the confidence and love. I’ll see you all tomorrow. Erica and Joshua, you guys are welcome to come hang out anytime too. I’ll be busy sewing and stuff tomorrow, but please feel free to come by.”

  We hug everyone, saying our goodbyes and goodnights, before Lukah and I make our way to our bedroom.

  * * *

  LUKAH

  Last night was such a great step in the right direction for Savy. She needed that boost of confidence. The other designers and models were so nice to her, never once bringing up Lindsey. Savy was so shocked she finished in second. Her reaction was the cutest. Now it’s time to focus on this second round.

  Rolling over, I notice she’s not in bed. I head into the bathroom to brush my teeth and start my day. There I find Savy laying in a bubble bath relaxing.

  “Good morning, baby doll. Decided on a morning soak?” I ask her.

  “Hi, baby. Yeah, I figured I’d soak and relax my body before I go into overdrive. How’d you sleep? I didn’t want to wake you, you looked so peaceful.”

  “I slept amazing, as I always do with you in my arms. Hey, I think I’m going to go to the office for a few hours while you work. I need to check on a few things and make sure everything is running smoothly while I’m gone.”

  “Of course, baby, go ahead. I’m going to be busy with sewing today anyways. I don’t have to sketch because I already did that months ago. Rhen went out this morning to get the fabrics I needed and the shell that’s in my apartment.”

  “Okay, good. Enjoy your bath. I’m gonna go get dressed and head out. The quicker I go the quicker I can get home to you.” I kiss her and head out to the room to get dressed.

  * * *

  SAVANNAH

  The next couple days seem to fly by. Lukah goes into the office during the day while I’m sewing but is always home in time for dinner. It’s actually been pretty awesome.

  Today is the second round show. I’ll admit I’m a bit nervous. I know I shouldn’t be, but I am. Today decides what my next move is. The good news, Fia’s dress is done for the wedding. Now I just have to make her reception dress and the rest of the bridal party’s. Which they’re a lot easier than they sound. Especially since it’s only me and Izzy as bridesmaids.

  Lukah interrupts my thoughts. “Baby doll, I
just want you to know that no matter what happens today, I’m so proud of you. You’ve come so far and already made a name for yourself.”

  “Thank you, baby.” I kiss him.

  “Let’s get dressed and head downstairs to the show room. Fia is already in hair and makeup. Momma went down with the sewing box and Rhen has your music.”

  “You guys really are so amazing to me. I couldn’t ask for a better support team.” I smile at the thought of how blessed I am.

  We get dressed and head down. I decide to let the stylists get me ready today. So, as we enter the show room, I head over to hair and makeup.

  Seeing Fia in the chair, I ask, “Hey girl, you almost done?”

  “Yep, they’re ready for you. How’s the nerves today? You ready to kill it?” she answers.

  “I’m actually not as nervous as I was in the first round. I know that no matter what happens, I did my best and that’s what’s important. I’m more excited than nervous. I can’t wait to see you in your gown.”

  Within forty-five minutes I’m done with hair and makeup. As I approach my station, I see Fia crying. “Fia, what’s wrong? What happened?”

  She stands up and turns toward me. That’s when I see it. She’s wearing her gown, and I know that the tears are of pure happiness.

  “Savy, this is the most perfect wedding gown. You created my dream dress. Thank you so much. I mean, I know I won’t get to wear it for its purpose until September, but to wear it now, it’s made the wedding real,” she gushes.

  “Fia, the wedding has always been real, silly girl. You’re in the home stretch. Today’s a preview of how your special day will be. You’ll be the center of attention, which we both know you love, today and on your wedding day. Now is more about the dress than the girl wearing it, but you’ll still be the center of attention.”