“I doubt even a miracle worker could save it now.”
“That little secretary really doesn’t know her place.”
“Well, this is great news. Our company’s main piece just got a better shot.”
Niamh spun around and yelled at the crowd, “No! There has to be a way! There has to be!”
They were happy that Charlene’s design was ruined because it meant one less competitor. These people were despicable. Not only would they not help, but they kicked her while she was down.
Just then, another wave of whispers started.
“Wow, I can’t believe Charlene is a homewrecker.”
“How disgusting.”
“She deserved it!”
“I’m not,” Charlene rasped, gripping Niamh’s hand tighter, her voice firm despite the pain. “They framed me. They did this so my design couldn't make it to the runway. Niamh, you have to believe me.”
“I believe you, Charlene,” Niamh said softly. “Don’t worry. We’ll figure something out.”
At that moment, the paramedics arrived and tried to take Charlene away, but she refused to go.
“Charlene, leave this to me,” Niamh said with sudden resolve. “I’ll handle it.”
“You’ll handle it?” Charlene stared at her in disbelief.
“Yes. Leave it to me.”
“But—”
Niamh turned to the paramedics. “Take her.”
Charlene wanted to protest, but before she could say another word, she lost consciousness.
Before Xylon could object, Niamh was already making the first cut, snipping off a large chunk of the shredded hem.
“Hey! Are you crazy? What are you doing?” Xylon shouted in horror.
How had he, an international supermodel, ended up letting some little secretary take a pair of scissors to him?
“Don’t move!” Niamh’s voice was sharp with authority. “Right now, you have to listen to me.”
“And why should I?” he challenged.
“Because Jareth Media has already paid you, and I am now taking over Charlene’s responsibilities. So, you will listen to me. Otherwise, I’ll have Jareth Media sue you for breach of contract.”
Xylon was speechless. The girl might be small, but she had a commanding presence. He reluctantly stood still.
Niamh continued to work, making seven or eight more decisive cuts along the tattered edges of the skirt.
Unbeknownst to them, Jareth was sitting in a shadowy corner, watching the entire scene with rapt interest.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: I Owe the Tyrant Four Little Heirs