CLAIRE

The morning sun streamed through my office windows as I reviewed the boutique meeting notes, today I was meeting with Jessica Romano, owner of a high-end boutique called Romano's.

She'd reached out two weeks ago expressing interest in carrying CLAIRE pieces, not just any pieces, but exclusive designs for her store.

I'd spent the last week putting together a proposal, design sketches, fabric samples, pricing structure, delivery timeline, everything she'd need to make a decision.

Nina knocked on my office door around ten AM. "You all set for the meeting?" she asked, leaning against the doorframe.

"I think so," I replied, gathering the portfolio I'd prepared. "Jessica seemed excited...