**Chapter 2: Five Years Later** The atmosphere was electric as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the art museum nestled in the vibrant Siko District of J City. It was the backdrop for a highly anticipated personal fashion debut, and backstage, the air buzzed with the frenetic energy of preparation. Violet, or Mina as she was known in the fashion world, stood at the epicenter of it all, meticulously examining each garment that would soon grace the runway. Her eyes glistened with determination, reflecting the three years of hard work that had gone into creating this moment—the unveiling of her unique vision to the world. “Mina, can you take a look at this accessory? Does it look right?” A voice broke through the flurry of activity, pulling Violet’s attention toward a colleague. She offered a quick nod before gliding across the chaotic room, her mind already racing through potential adjustments. In the five years since leaving J City, Violet had transformed into a celebrated designer under the mentorship of an acclaimed fashion icon, yet she remained a ghost to the public eye. This showcase was not just an exhibition; it was a revelation of her most cherished creations—artworks she had poured her heart into, destined to finally see the light. As she surveyed the lively scene, her heart swelled with pride. The audience was small; a deliberate choice aimed at cultivating an intimate atmosphere. Her loyal fans, those who had supported her from the shadows, filled the seats. Yet, amidst the hum of whispers and excitement, a flicker of recognition caught Violet's gaze—there, among the familiar faces, was Phoebe. “What are you doing here?” Violet wondered silently, a mix of surprise and intrigue rippling through her. Although taken aback by the unexpected encounter, she brushed aside any concern. With the show nearing its climax, she felt a wave of relief wash over her. She decided a quick trip to the restroom would do her good. Back in the audience, Phoebe’s impatience began to grow, her earlier confidence waning as she leaned toward her assistant. “Is there still no word on whether she’ll make an appearance?” Her voice dripped with frustration. “Rest assured, this is Mina’s first show since her return, so she’s bound to show up,” the assistant replied, though no certainty resided in her tone. Mina’s elusive nature was well-known; she rarely ventured into the public eye, especially since her departure. As the final moments of the show unfolded, disappointment settled over the audience like a heavy cloak. The applause echoed through the hall, yet Mina was conspicuously absent. Rage bubbled within Phoebe; she had fought tooth and nail to carve her place within the fashion realm, but her triumphs were often shadowed by controversy. Accusations of riding the coattails of the Murphy family to secure a fashion contest victory haunted her. The last three years had only intensified the scrutiny, as she found herself ensnared in a web of allegations surrounding her originality—or lack thereof. The whispers grew louder each time she encountered the specter of Mina’s work at Fashion Week, and jealousy surged within her. The moment she learned that Mina had returned to J City, Phoebe’s mind raced with possibilities. If she could entwine herself with Mina’s artistry, perhaps the cycle of copying would finally yield her the credibility she craved. Alas, the enigma of Mina’s secrecy proved to be a formidable obstacle. Emerging from the restroom, Phoebe’s gaze landed on a woman blending into the sea of ordinary staff. Yet, as their eyes met, a wave of recognition washed over her, freezing Phoebe in her tracks. “Violet?! What are you doing here?” The disbelief in her voice was palpable, jolting Violet from her own contemplations. With an unassuming air, Violet replied, “I work here.” Her words, simple but loaded with significance, hung in the air. Violet had long since severed her ties to the Hunt family, burying the past beneath layers of ambition and determination. She wasn’t here to reminisce or delve into old wounds, especially not with someone like Phoebe, who had risen through the ranks with a reputation tattered by scandals. However, Phoebe, whose mind raced with a convoluted mixture of emotions, did not connect the dots between Violet and Mina. In a twisted sense, she felt a smug satisfaction at the apparent gulf that separated them. “I can’t believe our paths have crossed again,” she sneered, her expression tinged with contempt. “Is your sickly little brother still breathing?” The jab hung in the air, sharp and unnecessary, as Violet felt the familiar pang of disdain. Five years had changed her. Yet, Phoebe’s manufactured arrogance served as a stark reminder of the past she had fought so hard to escape. The stage was set, but unbeknownst to both women, the threads of fate were weaving tighter. The world outside awaited the debut of Violet’s brilliance—and the time for revenge had only just begun.