Match Point

Chapter 47: Airbag

In a deep, deep sleep of the innocent

I am born again

In a fast German car

I'm amazed that I survived

"Airbag," by Radiohead

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Lettie

The atelier was almost exactly the same as the last time I had been here, which was to return the dress, shoes, and accessories I had borrowed for the EMA afterparty. The polished wood floors reflected the golden light of the chandeliers, and the air was scented with cedar and lavender. Stepping back in time and into my old place of work made me happy and nostalgic; it was almost enough to make me forget the nerves that had been gnawing at me all day.

Kiara pushed the door open with a flourish. "After you, m'lady," she said with a grin, gesturing for me to enter first.

"Such a gentlewoman," I teased, stepping inside.

"You know it."

The room was lively but intimate, with just a handful of people mingling around and sipping wine. This had been my home for so many years, and being here felt weird, like stepping into a different life, but at the same time, I felt like I belonged, and it was comforting.

"Lettie!" Leona's voice rang out over the crowd. She weaved her way toward us, her dark curls bouncing with each step. She looked the same—effortlessly elegant in a tailored jumpsuit, the highest heels imaginable, and the most immaculate makeup. She smiled at both of us as she got closer.

"Leona," I said, returning her smile as she wrapped me in a tight hug.

She stepped back, holding me at arm's length. "Look at you. You're glowing."

"You never were a good liar," I joked.

Leona laughed. "Well, you look good. Sorry for the hyperbole."

"Forgiven," I smiled. "The place looks great! Congrats on the new line," I told her genuinely.

That was the reason for the party, the finishing of her line for the winter.

"Thank you. I'm so glad Kiara was able to drag you out tonight. It's been too long."

Leona led us further in, and Kiara broke off to talk to some people. We stopped at the bar, and I asked for water while Leona had a glass of wine poured for her.

"So," Leona began, leaning casually against a counter as we settled into the conversation. "Tell me everything, Lettie." Her warm and inviting tone made me want to open up.

"Where do I even start," I laughed, feeling nervous. I didn't want to unload and wanted to sound more together than I was. Leona would see through me, though, if I was too calculated.

"I'm in a transition right now. I'm sure you know I closed my shop, which was very bittersweet."

"Kiara told me, and I saw the storefront vacant. I'm really sorry you closed. I know how much you wanted it and how you burned the candle at both ends to make it happen. "Leona touched my arm, and she was very genuine.

"You know if you ever wanted to come back... there's always a spot for you at Leona London."

Emotion welled up unexpectedly. Leona had always been more than a boss—she was a mentor, a cheerleader, and a friend. "That means a lot," I said, swallowing the lump in my throat. "But I actually reopened a pop-up for six months. I'm just testing the waters, seeing how it feels. I actually had a chance to do some pretty high-profile styling jobs, and I really loved them. So, weighing my options."