Pretend Perfect

Part 1 : The Unexpected Invitation

As the sun rose high in the sky, its warm rays shone down on the quiet town of Spring Field. The peaceful ambiance was interrupted by the sound of Ella's alarm ringing at 7am, beckoning her to wake up and start the day. With a gentle stretch, Ella sat up in bed and pushed the blanket aside, revealing her striking black eyes and short, brunette hair. She stood up and headed to the bathroom to start her morning routine.

After a quick shower, Ella got ready for work, putting on a crisp white shirt and formal black skirt, paired with a pair of sleek black high heels. She grabbed her laptop and some files and made her way out of her apartment. Outside, her red fiat 500 was parked on the side of the street. She hopped inside and drove off to her office, EZ Interiors.

Upon arrival, Ella parked her car and opened the door to the compact yet beautifully designed office. The space had a reception area and a waiting room. She headed over to her desk, where her name was proudly displayed as "Ella Young, Interior Designer". She placed her documents next to her laptop and began to check her emails.

As she scrolled through her inbox, she noticed that the desk next to her was empty, the name board indicating that it belonged to Zoey Frost, the head consultant. Ella sighed and picked up her phone to give Zoey a call. Just as she was about to hit dial, Zoey rushed in, apologizing for being late. She placed a steaming cup of coffee on Ella's desk, stating, "I didn't forget our coffee, it's hot and strong just how you like it."

Ella smiled gratefully at her friend and business partner. Zoey and Ella had grown up as neighbors and attended architecture school together, forming a close friendship and a perfect business partnership. Zoey was a fashionista, always dressed to impress, while Ella preferred a more simple and classic style.

Ella came across an email requesting a consultation, but the name of the company was kept private. She read it out to Zoey and asked her to schedule it in. Zoey noted it down and asked Ella if she was free that evening. Ella replied that she had to complete a design and submit it for approval the next day. Zoey persisted, "Don't you have at least an hour to spare?" Ella inquired as to why she was asking. Zoey revealed that a big shot client had invited them to an after-party for his shop opening, and it was a chance to network and find potential clients.

Ella thought about it for a moment and ultimately agreed, stating, "If that's what it's all about, then I'll join you." Zoey was thrilled at the prospect and exclaimed, "Great! I'm picking your dress!" Ella quickly replied, "Not a chance," finishing the conversation with a smile.

As the phone at the reception desk rang, Ella's curiosity was piqued. She swiftly stood up from her desk and made her way towards the ringing phone. She picked it up with a professional tone and greeted the caller, "Hello, EZ Interiors. How may we assist you?"

On the other end of the line, a deep voice replied, "This is Markus from Lee Groups of Companies. We are inviting designers for our new project in New York City. One of our esteemed client has highly recommended your expertise. The meeting is scheduled in two days, and we have already sent you an email containing all the details. We kindly request your prompt reply to secure your spot in our records. And upon confirmation, we will take care of your travel expenses."

Ella's eyes widened with surprise upon hearing the name "Lee Groups," as it was renowned as one of the top architecture firms in New York. She quickly composed herself and replied, "Thank you for considering us. We will promptly send you a reply to confirm our attendance." Markus expressed his gratitude and ended the call.

Zoey, who had been gesturing from her desk, couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. She asked eagerly, "Who was it, Ell?"

Ella couldn't hide her excitement as she exclaimed, "It was Lee Groups! They've invited us to their new project in New York!"

Zoey's eyes widened in disbelief, "Are you kidding me? No way!"

Ella shook her head, a smile spreading across her face. "No, I'm not kidding. Remember the email I mentioned earlier? It was from them."

Returning to her desk, Ella sat down, and Zoey joined her, leaning against the desk and peering at the screen. Ella quickly composed a reply to the email, accepting the invitation. They both burst into a fit of excitement, jumping up and down and exclaiming, "We're going to New York!"