FLAWLESS

CHAPTER 2

Shanelle POV

I woke up with a pounding headache, the remnants of last night's party still lingering in my mind. Blinking my eyes open, I groaned as I realized I was still in my party dress, sprawled across the vast expanse of my king-sized bed. To my left, Beatrice and Kayleen were still sleeping soundly, oblivious to my chaotic state. I glanced at the clock and cursed under my breath. I was late for the meeting.

With a surge of adrenaline, I leaped out of bed, stumbling over discarded shoes and empty glasses. Makeup smudges adorned my face, a testament to the debauchery of the previous night. Today, however, there was no time for touch-ups or meticulous grooming. I hastily discarded my glamorous attire, opting for casual clothes that were quick to put on. The thought of makeup seemed laughable, so I abandoned the idea altogether.

As I rushed through the penthouse, trying to locate my keys, Beatrice stirred, her eyes fluttering open. Confusion etched across her face as she watched me fly around the room like a whirlwind.

"Nelle, what's going on?" she asked, her voice groggy with sleep.

I shot her an exasperated look, my frustration bubbling to the surface. "I'm late for the meeting, Bea! Ava mentioned it last night."

Beatrice's eyes widened, and she sat up, suddenly alert. "Well, shit! You better hurry then."

Her support buoyed my spirits slightly as I hurried out of the penthouse and dashed towards the sleek black Lamborghini waiting outside. Ignoring the admiring glances of passers-by, I jumped into the driver's seat, revved the engine, and sped off towards the agency.

The SERENE AGENCY building loomed ahead, a modern masterpiece of glass and steel. Its pristine exterior reflected the morning sun, casting a shimmering glow over the surroundings. I parked the Lamborghini haphazardly, not bothering with finesse, and dashed towards the entrance.

Once inside, I navigated through the bustling halls, past wide-eyed newcomers and seasoned models engrossed in conversations. I needed to reach Ava's office, and I needed to reach it fast.

Finally, I stood before the door labeled "Ava Blackwood - Talent Manager." I took a deep breath to compose myself, then burst through the door without bothering to knock.

Ava and Serene, my aunt and the agency's CEO and modeling instructor, turned their heads toward me, their expressions a mix of annoyance and disappointment. My aunt's gaze held a particular sense of disapproval, making my heart sink.

"I'm sorry I'm late," I gasped, struggling to catch my breath. "I overslept, and I didn't have time to—"

Ava interrupted me with a curt wave of her hand. "Save the excuses, Shanelle. We have more important matters to discuss."

I swallowed hard, a knot forming in my stomach. This wasn't going to be good.

Ava proceeded to brief me on the upcoming fashion show in Los Angeles, her words ringing in my ears as she outlined the expectations and challenges we would face. I listened intently, my mind racing to keep up with the information.

Then, my aunt's stern voice cut through the air. "I want you to clear out your schedule for the next week, Shanelle. You'll be joining us for the fashion show."

A surge of excitement coursed through me, momentarily dispelling the fatigue and hangover-induced fog. My aunt rarely extended such opportunities to me, so I knew this was a significant moment.

"Of course, Aunt Serene," I replied, my voice filled with gratitude and anticipation.

After the meeting concluded, I left Ava's office, the weight of my aunt's expectations resting on my shoulders. But despite the pressure, a sense of exhilaration enveloped me. I had an incredible opportunity ahead of me—a chance to prove myself on the grand stage of Los Angeles.

Returning home, I threw open the doors to my penthouse, the task of packing suddenly becoming a thrilling adventure. As I sorted through my wardrobe, choosing outfits that would dazzle the runway, a sense of purpose and determination filled my heart. The hangover would have to wait—I had dreams to chase, and Los Angeles was just the beginning.