Wow. I have no idea how I would work with that central panel without using cream! My fear would be that it would end up looking like a big hole in the middle of the quilt, and just disappear because lighter colours recede so much. And it is such a pretty panel! The mini panels are also too cute- I like that cherry red- but how to bring it all together? I feel your pain! You are such a friend to do this and, as others have said, the client will love what you don't love! Best of luck.