"I'm sorry, but this design... it's too emotional, too personal."

The client’s voice across the table was cold and stiff. Evelyn stared at the presentation screen still glowing before her—a concept ring titled “Wounds That Heal”, inspired by her own life journey.

"I thought we commissioned a product, not a therapy session," the man added sharply, sliding the folder back with a finger adorned in luxury diamond rings.

Evelyn took a long breath. She wasn’t a stranger to criticism. But this time, the words pierced deeper.

“I understand,” she finally replied, keeping her voice steady. “Thank you for the feedback. I’ll consider the revision.”

The meeting ended without applause, only...