Can’t Win Me Back

When Rose got to her office, she found Clarissa standing stiffly, waiting for her.

“Are you Clarissa Sparks?”

At the sound of her name, Clarissa hurriedly rose to her feet. “Ms. Emerson.”

Rose studied her with surprise. She had expected the matriarch of the Schmidt family to exude grace and authority, not the demeanor she encountered.

Clarissa only wore a simple white suit with her hair in a neat bun. Though her makeup was impeccably applied, it couldn’t hide the exhaustion etched on her face.

“Ms. Sparks, please take a seat,” Rose said, masking her initial resentment toward a meeting with a member of the Schmidt family. She decided to withhold her emotions and assess the situation first.

this sudden visit, but I desperately need your help in designing an evening gown,” Clarissa pleaded. “Money is no object. I can pay you double or even

Please, I implore you!”

excessive for you to beg,” Rose remarked, noticing Clarissa’s trembling hand as she held her cup. It was evident she was not

schedule and compromise the quality of our work, which

finish, Clarissa sank to her knees

doing, Ms. Sparks?” Rose panicked and quickly

pulled Clarissa up, Clarissa’s sleeves

glimpse of a few large bruises

mind reeled

endured humiliation to provide her with a better life. The haunting image of her

masterpiece from you can surpass all others. Your designs