Reborn From Oblivion (Nellie and Cameron)

When Nellie was mostly back on her feet, it also happened to be the start of a new school term. Maybe it was like finding sunshine after the storm, but Nellie's streak of bad luck seemed to take a turn for the better. It was as if her career was finally blossoming. Her designs became all the rage among her classmates, with many of them eager to snap up her stylish yet affordable clothes. Word spread fast, and soon enough, Nellie's little business was booming, catering to everyone from budget buyers to those with a bit more to spend. Her wallet was getting nice and full. Nellie was thrilled; she finally had the confidence and the means to stand on her own two feet.

Meanwhile, Nathan was chilling on his bed, gaming away, and chimed in with some words of wisdom, "Everyone's energy has its limits. Even if you were made of steel, there's only so much you can do in a day. That means your income has a ceiling." Nellie also realized that she was swamped with more orders than she could handle. She turned to Nathan for advice. "So, any ideas on how I can break through this?"

Nathan paused his game. "You've got two options: pivot towards the high-end market or start your own brand."

His advice was straightforward, but Nellie, being familiar with the high-society scene, quickly saw the potential in Nathan's words. Still, she was a bit hesitant. "High-society folks mostly go for big-name brands. My stuff might not even get a second look." "Every brand started somewhere."

With just a few words, Nathan expanded Nellie's vision for her career. "Think I should give it a shot?" she asked, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

Nathan handed her a client's order, saying, "Just wow her, and she'll bring you something unexpected."

Nellie was puzzled. "But this is just a mid-tier client."

"Just trust me," Nathan replied confidently.

When the client showed up at Nellie's modest apartment to pick up her gown, she looked around skeptically. "I need a sophiscated and classy gown. How can it be made in a place like this?" Nellie, ever the diplomat, reassured her, "Madam, my place might be simple, but it's spotless. I promise you'll love your gown."

With a respectful gesture, Nellie presented the gown, beautifully packaged. The client's face lit up when she saw the soft color and the fine craftsmanship. "I love this color! What's it called?" "Oatmeal," Nellie replied. "Would you like to try it on?"

The client carefully took out the dress and its lining. "What's this?"

Nellie explained, "This lining is a special match for the cashmere coat. If you're okay with it, I'd like to give it to you as a gift. Just a heads up, it's a complimentary item, so it's not as high-quality as the coat."

The client was thrilled, "Oh my! You're such a generous soul. I'm really impressed with you."

A few days later, the client returned with a group of high-society friends. She couldn't stop raving about Nellie, "Your designs are top-notch and so unique. I was the talk of the ball! My friends kept asking where I got my dress, so I just had to bring them here." Nellie gave a grateful bow. "Thank you so much for spreading the word. To show my appreciation, I'd love to design a necklace for you, on the house."