Bridgette hoped she wouldn’t regret her decision to ask Gladys to model her creation in lieu of its designer. Most of the entries would be worn by the same students who had conceived and seen their garments through to construction, but Bridgette hadn’t the height to do justice to her slinky evening gown nor the heart to give the honor of modeling it to another girl. But Gladys as usual was afraid of failure, and while Bridgette’s creation would have to speak for itself, the model had a lot to do with showing it to its best advantage.

“Okay, so tell me, and don’t avoid the subject this time,” Gladys said accusingly. “If you make Edith Head’s list, and she asks you to come work for her, will you be going to California?”

Bridgette concentrated on testing the drape of the skirt, unnecessary since her sharp eye, merciless as a stiletto, told her no final stitch or adjustment was required. The toga-inspired, floor-length sheath in shimmering scarlet jersey with its inlay of rhinestones on its single shoulder was ready to go, but she could not meet the disappointment bound to flare on her best friend’s face when she heard her answer.

“Yes, I will, Gladys. I’ve given the J. L. Hudson offer a lot of thought and decided that I’m not going to accept it. I’m not keen on moving to Detroit for a marketing career with a retail store chain. I’m a women’s clothes designer, not a fashion marketer and manager. Short of going to Paris as an apprentice in one of the big couture houses—which is now out of the question with the German occupation on—can you think of a more exciting place to intern than in Paramount’s costume division under Edith Head? Of course I’ll take the position if it’s offered. Imagine creating clothes for Bette Davis and Olivia de Havilland! Besides, I want to get my grandmother out of the Michigan winters.”

“California is a long way from home, Bridge, and a move might not be good for her. You know she’s not well.”

“All the more reason to move her to a warmer climate. The change will be the best medicine for her. She’s taken the news from France terribly hard. I have to go, Gladys. You have to understand that.”