FLAWLESS

CHAPTER 5

Shanelle POV 

I smoothed down the delicate fabric of my elegant gown, a rich shade of midnight blue that hugged my curves in all the right places. The beaded embellishments sparkled under the ambient lighting, casting a soft glow around me. Beside me, Beatrice and Kayleen, stood resplendent in their own designer ensembles. Beatrice wore a vibrant red dress that accentuated her fiery personality, while Kayleen donned a sleek silver gown that mirrored her quiet grace.

We arrived at the hotel lobby, the epicenter of the grand party, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement as we stepped into the throng of guests. The room buzzed with animated conversations, clinking glasses, and the occasional burst of laughter. I spotted familiar faces and exchanged warm greetings, basking in the familiarity of the fashion industry's camaraderie.

A wave of photographers descended upon us, capturing the essence of our collective beauty. We indulged them, striking poses and showcasing our dresses in perfect synchrony. Flash after flash illuminated the room as we posed with other attendees, soaking in the limelight and reveling in the moment.

Amidst the crowd, Aunt Serene, beckoned me over. Her elegant gown shimmered in shades of emerald green, reflecting her timeless grace. She introduced me to several famous brand ambassadors, their names whispered in awe: Jacob Barnes, the iconic face of luxury watches; Isabella Martinez, renowned for her ethereal beauty and grace; and James Sullivan, a charismatic influencer with a magnetic smile.

The party was in full swing, and I allowed myself to enjoy the moment. I sipped on champagne, its effervescence tickling my palate, as I engaged in lively conversations with fellow models. They asked about my excitement for the upcoming fashion show, and I shared my anticipation, relishing in the collective thrill that pulsed through our veins.

However, as the night wore on and the champagne flowed freely, a hush fell over the crowd. I turned towards the entrance, curiosity piqued by the sudden change in atmosphere. The vibrant room seemed to lose a fraction of its vivacity as a group of journalists entered, their cameras flashing and pens poised.

My heart skipped a beat as I realized they were making their way toward me. The spotlight was no stranger to me, but tonight it carried an unexpected weight. Thoughts raced through my mind, wondering what they could possibly ask me that hadn't been asked before. Nevertheless, I took a deep breath, reminding myself that I was strong, that I could handle whatever they threw at me.

The journalists encircled me, their microphones held aloft, ready to capture my every word. One among them stepped forward, a determined look in her eyes. She cleared her throat, preparing to probe into my personal life.

"Shanelle, your family is known for their successful business. How do they feel about your career as a supermodel, considering your sisters' involvement in the family business?"

Her question hit me like a sledgehammer. Panic coursed through my veins, tightening my chest, as if the room itself were constricting around me. The memories of countless family dinners and heated arguments resurfaced, reminding me of the pressure I constantly felt to live up to their expectations.

My breath quickened, and the clamor of the party became muffled, distant. The journalists' eyes bored into mine, waiting for a response. I struggled to find the right words, my throat closing up, suffocating me.

Gasping for air, I managed to utter a single sentence, "Excuse me, I need a moment." 

Without waiting for a reply, I turned on my heel and fled from the glaring spotlight, my heart pounding in my ears.

Racing through the opulent lobby, I fought to keep my composure. Panic clawed at my mind, threatening to consume me whole. I couldn't breathe, couldn't think. I needed my pills, the small white tablets that could calm the storm within me.