Chapter 139 Award
While replying to her family via text message to let them know she was safe, she also hastily sketched design drafts in her notebook.
As night fades outside the window, the city transforms from quiet to bustling.
It wasn't until 5:30 that she finally felt sleepy.
When I opened my eyes again, it was noon.
The competition organizers announced the theme in the afternoon, so there's plenty of time.
She breathed a sigh of relief and reached for her phone on the bedside table.
I discovered that Guo Zhenyi had posted a message.
It's to let people know you've gotten off the plane safely.
She looked at the screen, a smile unconsciously spreading across her face, and her fingertips quickly typed out a reply.
"Okay, be careful on the road, and come back early after the mission is over."
Then she went into the bathroom to wash up, changed into her clean competition clothes, slung her bag over her shoulder, and headed to the competition venue.
When I arrived at the scene, I found that many people had already arrived.
The results have just been posted, and apart from the few who were eliminated, everyone else is still waiting for a new task.
This theme is quite challenging, requiring the integration of traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
But Zhou Shufen quickly sorted out her thoughts and began to immerse herself in creation.
The competition went smoothly, and Zhou Shufen gave it her all without letting up.
Her works are gradually revealing a unique style.
It possesses both cultural depth and innovative edge.
After several rounds of steady progress, they made it all the way to the finals.
His name was prominently listed among the final six.
On the day of the final, Lao Si and his wife both showed up.
The two stood at the entrance of the stadium, looking around for her.
She was also carrying a heavy bag of fruit.
What brings you two here?
She was both surprised and delighted, and quickened her pace to meet him.
"It's so far, and the weather is so hot, why bother making the special trip?"
"We came here especially to cheer you on, because we were worried you'd be nervous all by yourself."
Zhou Haiqing answered with a smile, and Qin Guifang nodded in agreement.
Zhou Shufen welcomed the people inside.
"I'm already so old, why would I be nervous? Besides, I've been through plenty of these kinds of situations."
"Yes, you're right! You're calm, collected, and have an unyielding presence; you're sure to win the award!"
As she spoke, Qin Guifang placed the fruit on the small table in the rest area.
"We're here in advance to prepare for the victory celebration banquet. We'll need to book a private room and have a good time!"
At this moment, Zhou Haiqing interjected, his tone serious.
"Mom, are the results coming out today? When will they be announced?"
Zhou Shufen nodded, picked up her water glass, and took a sip.
"I just submitted the design draft this morning, and the judging panel said that the results would be released before 3 p.m., and the list of winners would be announced on the spot."
This time she encountered many formidable opponents.
To be honest, many of my design inspirations actually come from the accumulation of future experience.
Compared to those who rely solely on talent and current trends, she had a slight advantage.
Knowing full well that this advantage was hard-won, they dared not slack off in the slightest.
"Let's go out for dinner tonight, we have to celebrate properly!"
Qin Guifang immediately made the suggestion, her eyes sparkling.
"I know a new Sichuan restaurant opened in town. It's authentically spicy, and it's perfect with beer!"
Are you so sure I'll win the award?
Zhou Shufen was both amused and exasperated.
"What if we don't make it into the top three? Will you still treat us?"
Zhou Haiqing walked behind her and gently massaged her shoulders.
"Don't we know you? You're definitely capable. You're always reliable in everything you do, and this time is no exception. What's meant to happen will happen."
Hearing this made her a little embarrassed; her cheeks flushed slightly, and she smiled with her head down.
Afterwards, she chatted with the two children for a while.
After chatting for a while, she got up and took them to a nearby small restaurant for lunch.
Before we had finished eating, the digital clock on the wall pointed to exactly one o'clock.
A clear voice came from the radio.
"Attention all participants, the results will be announced in five minutes. Please return to the competition area as soon as possible."
Zhou Shufen glanced at the time and said to the two children.
"It's about time we went over there."
But when she saw her name ranked second, her heart skipped a beat.
She recognized the name of the first-place winner; he was a rising star in the domestic fashion design industry in recent years.
His works are known in the industry for their avant-garde style and exquisite craftsmanship.
However, this disappointment was fleeting.
She quickly composed herself, took a deep breath, and smiled again.
After all, she knew that the first place winner was indeed exceptionally strong.
Whether it's the pattern design, the choice of fabric, or the creative expression, it's all impeccable.
Qin Guifang spotted the list at a glance and was so excited she almost shouted it out.
"Mom, you're amazing! Every contestant here is a top player, the competition is so fierce, and you managed to make it into the top three, that's incredible!"
Upon hearing these words, the lingering regret in Zhou Shufen's heart vanished instantly.
So what if you came in second?
She has her children by her side, and that's her greatest source of confidence.
More precious than any trophy.
"Should the top three receive awards?"
Zhou Haiqing suddenly remembered something and said with great interest,
"Mom, I need to find a good angle to take this picture later so you can show off in front of our relatives and friends!"
He said he was going to find a nearby rental shop to see if he could rent a professional camera.
"Stop making a fuss, the organizers will definitely arrange a camera team to record the whole thing."
Zhou Shufen quickly grabbed his wrist and shook her head with a smile.
"We'll just ask the organizing committee for a copy of the video and photos later, so you don't have to run around in this sweltering heat."
Zhou Haiqing had no choice but to give up.
About ten minutes later, a familiar figure walked in from the entrance of the stadium.
Wei Mingwei was wearing a sharp suit and holding a folder in his hand.
He walked through the crowd and went straight to Zhou Shufen's family, where he greeted them politely.
"Comrade Zhou, the awards ceremony is about to begin. Would you like to come over?"
Zhou Shufen nodded, took the two children's hands, and slowly walked towards the podium.
The competition was quite large in scale, and the venue was decorated in a very solemn manner.
The competition's name was printed on a red backdrop, and camera flashes went off one after another.
Zhou Haiqing and Qin Guifang watched their mother walk step by step to the center of the stage, their eyes filled with pride.
Before long, the host's voice echoed throughout the venue through the speakers.
"Next, we will announce the winners of this year's 'Huashang Cup' National Fashion Design Competition!"
The audience immediately fell silent.
Wei Mingwei took the microphone and began to read out the names of the award winners one by one.
When he read out "Second Prize, Zhou Shufen," the two children below the stage were so excited they almost jumped up.
In addition to medals and certificates, the organizers also prepared a bunch of gifts.
This includes a voucher for high-end sewing equipment and an invitation to attend an international fashion week.
Seeing Zhou Shufen smiling happily, Wei Mingwei was genuinely happy for her too.
As a seasoned industry reviewer, he knew what this honor meant to a mother nearing fifty who had transitioned to a new career.
He couldn't help but recall the controversy before the match.
If it weren't for Guo Zhenyi's timely help, she might not even have qualified to participate.
Fortunately, she successfully completed the competition and proved herself with her strength.
Otherwise, it would be a huge loss for the industry.
Watching her lead the child off the stage, Wei Mingwei silently made a decision in his heart.
In future competitions like this, we must give more opportunities to hardworking and down-to-earth people like Zhou Shufen.
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