David and I had just returned from our honeymoon, and life felt full of love and happiness. But my mother-in-law, Gertrude, never took me seriously. She criticized everything I did, even during dinner.
“Grace, have you considered using thyme in the soup? It would improve the flavor,” she said with a condescending tone.
I forced a smile. “I’ll keep that in mind, Gertrude.”
David, unaware of the tension, added, “I think the soup is perfect.”
Gertrude then remarked, “The presentation could be better, and that lipstick doesn’t suit you.”
I bit my lip, trying to stay calm. “I’ll think about that next time.”
After David left to check his email, Gertrude turned to me, her smile disappearing. “You’re not beautiful enough for my son.”
Her words stung, but I nodded and left the room, retreating to my atelier where I found an invitation to a beauty contest. I decided to enter, needing to prove my worth to myself and to her.
In the weeks that followed, David supported my decision to compete. The contest was intense, with many contestants, including Chloe, who would stop at nothing to win. Despite the drama, I made friends and impressed others with my kindness.
On the night of the contest, I presented my clothing collection, designed for everyday wear. I shared my dream of making affordable fashion for families in need. The audience responded warmly, and David and Gertrude congratulated me afterward.
Gertrude, however, whispered, “This contest isn’t for someone like you.”
Later, backstage, I discovered that Katie’s dress had been ruined. I suspected sabotage but decided to help her by letting her wear my dress for the final runway. In the end, Katie won, and I received the People’s Choice award.
David praised me, saying I didn’t need a contest to prove my worth. But I had one last thing to do. I confronted Gertrude, accusing her of orchestrating the sabotage. David finally stood up for me, and we left, hand in hand, ready to celebrate our victory and love.
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