For a long moment, there was only the ticking of the grandfather clock. Julien felt exposed, but not humiliated. He felt seen in a way he had never been, not by lovers, not by critics. The anger drained out of him, leaving behind a curious emptiness, a vessel waiting to be filled.

In 2005, Gay launched CMNM (Collection Monsieur Noir et Madame), his eponymous fashion label. The brand quickly gained recognition for its bold, sophisticated designs, which seamlessly blended classic elegance with modern flair. CMNM's debut collection was met with critical acclaim, with fashion critics and enthusiasts praising Gay's attention to detail, impeccable craftsmanship, and innovative approach to fashion.