Chapter 146. No More Hiding

Layla’s POV

The hall was bright, with cameras flashing from every direction. The ceiling had tiny glass bulbs that sparkled like stars. I felt a heaviness of all the eyes on me as I stood in the middle of the stage, the bright light hitting just right on the jewelry piece I had worked so hard to make. My heart raced, but I forced a smile. This moment was mine, and nothing—neither my past nor my pain—was going to take it away from me.

Reporters raised their hands, voices mingling and blending in a sound wave of questions.

A reporter finally stepped forward. “Miss Perez, can you explain what inspired this collection?”

I took the mic, my fingers steady, even though my hands were a bit damp from anxiety. “Strength,” I said. I felt loud but calm through the speakers. “Each piece tells a story of beauty and strength. Life has shown me that no matter what happens, we can always rebuild. The jewelry represents that.”

People clapped loudly and the clappin