The room remained silent, the kind of silence that feels heavy, almost tangible. Richard Lancaster, the man who could negotiate any deal and sway any boardroom, found himself at a loss for words. He glanced at Clara, whose eyes mirrored a mix of surprise and disbelief. Her hands, usually so adept at handling fragile china or soothing a restless child, trembled slightly.
Richard’s gaze then shifted to the models, who were the epitome of elegance and poise, yet now seemed oddly out of place. They had come expecting a fairy tale opportunity, but this unexpected twist left them feeling more like unwelcome guests. The tension in the air was palpable, and Richard knew he had to say something, anything, to break the awkward silence.
