FLAWLESS

CHAPTER 37

Shanelle POV

The backstage of the grand fashion event buzzed with electrifying energy as the air crackled with anticipation. It was the day of one of my biggest fashion shows, an annual extravaganza that brought together the finest designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts. The theme for this year's show was "Enchanted Elegance," a celebration of ethereal beauty and timeless allure.

As I sat in front of the dressing room mirror, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and nerves. The room was a whirlwind of activity, filled with makeup artists, hairstylists, and wardrobe assistants bustling around in carefully choreographed chaos. The soft hum of conversations and the occasional bursts of laughter added to the backstage symphony.

I glanced at the gown hanging delicately on the wardrobe rack, awaiting its moment to shine on the runway. It was a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the theme. The gown's silhouette embraced my curves, accentuating them with intricate beading and delicate lace that trailed down to the floor. The fabric, a whisper of silk, shimmered with a celestial blue hue that seemed to change in the shifting light. With each movement, it cascaded like a waterfall, lending an ethereal touch to the ensemble. It was a creation that spoke volumes without uttering a single word.

Amidst the organized chaos, Ava  stood by my side, her presence a calming influence in the storm. Ava had been with me since the beginning, understanding every nuance of my journey in the fashion world. Her eyes glittered with excitement as she meticulously recited all the details I needed to remember.

"Shanelle, remember, your music cue is precisely 30 seconds into the track. It's a gentle crescendo that will set the mood for your entrance," Ava reminded me, her voice a soothing melody.

I nodded, taking in every word, my eyes fixed on the mirror as a makeup artist applied the final touches to my face. The soft, rosy hues accentuated my cheekbones, while a touch of shimmer on my eyelids captured the essence of starlight. My lips, painted in a deep berry shade, held the promise of mystery and allure.

"And at the end of the runway, take a moment—a full three seconds—before the next model takes her place," Ava continued, her fingers nervously tapping on her clipboard. 

"The representatives from Belladonna Cosmetics and Seraphine Jewelry will be seated in the front row," Ava whispered, her voice laced with significance. 

"They're potential collaborators for our upcoming line, so make sure you captivate them with your grace and poise."

The weight of Ava's words sank in as the reality of the situation settled upon me. This was not just a runway show; it was an opportunity to make lasting connections and secure collaborations with influential figures in the fashion industry. I had to impress, to mesmerize with my every step.

As Ava briefed me on the names and faces of the important individuals attending, I closed my eyes, visualizing the stage, feeling the vibrant energy that awaited me beyond the curtain. I could hear the distant hum of the audience, their murmurs blending into a symphony of expectation. It was time to step into the limelight and claim my place in the world of fashion.

With Ava's guidance and support, I rose from the makeup chair, my gown trailing gracefully behind me. The room fell silent as everyone turned to witness my transformation, their gazes reflecting a mix of awe and admiration.

I quickly snuck back into the changing room, my heart pounding in my chest like a wild beast desperate for escape. The clamour of the backstage chaos filled the air, mingling with the adrenaline coursing through my veins. I had to act swiftly, before anyone could notice my absence and start asking questions.

My hands trembled as I reached into my purse, fingers fumbling anxiously until they found what I sought: Serenol. I knew it was too risky to take anything right now, especially during such a significant event. But the nerves were escalating inside me, threatening to unravel all the preparations I had made for this moment. I needed something to steady my trembling soul, something to help me endure the night and, hopefully, make it down that runway with grace.

I hesitated for a moment, the weight of my decision pressing heavily upon me. Doubt seeped into my thoughts, whispering warnings of the potential consequences. But I couldn't afford to listen, not now. This was my chance, my moment to shine, and I refused to let anxiety cast its shadow over my dreams.

With determination etched across my face, I poured four tablets onto my palm. They lay there, innocent yet potent, promising a reprieve from the turmoil within. Without further ado, I threw them into my mouth, desperate for their soothing effect. My mouth felt dry, parched by anticipation, and I hastily grabbed a nearby water bottle, my trembling hands almost knocking it over in my haste.

I tilted my head back and gulped down the water, feeling the cool liquid cascade down my throat, carrying with it the precious pills that would soon dissolve into my system. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, savouring the fleeting moment of respite, the fleeting hope that all would be well.

As the last remnants of water trickled down, I reopened my eyes, determination blazing within them. It was time to face the world, to cast aside my insecurities and take hold of the spotlight awaiting me. I straightened my posture, shoulders back, and head held high, as if drawing strength from the invisible armor I wore.

Leaving the changing room behind, I stepped into the bustling backstage area once more. The air crackled with excitement, nerves, and anticipation, mingling into a symphony of emotions that threatened to overwhelm me. But I refused to let them consume me. I had made my choice, for better or worse, and now it was time to embrace the consequences.

With cautious steps, I moved toward the curtains, my eyes fixated on the three girls standing ahead of me. They chatted nervously, their eyes darting from side to side, mirroring the whirlwind of thoughts in my mind. I felt a camaraderie with them, knowing that we were all bound by the same desire to succeed, to captivate the audience and leave a lasting impression.

The music swelled, its pulsating rhythm resonating deep within me. The time drew near, and my heartbeat quickened once more. I brushed away a stray strand of hair that had escaped from its carefully styled prison, the gesture a futile attempt to tame my unruly nerves. The anticipation hung in the air, thick and electrifying, and I could almost taste the adrenaline.

My heart thumped with anticipation. The stage props shifted, the lights danced in a mesmerizing display, and the music swelled, creating an atmosphere of enchantment. All eyes were on us, awaiting the moment we would step onto the runway. 

But something felt off.

My vision blurred suddenly, and an intense migraine pierced through my skull. It felt as if a thousand hammers collided in my head, threatening to shatter my concentration. I stumbled backward, nearly losing my balance. Panic surged within me, but I couldn't find solace in the eyes of the backstage crew. They were too preoccupied, ensuring everything was flawless before diverting their attention to me.

I attempted to call out for help, but the pain rendered me speechless. Agony washed over me like a tidal wave, threatening to consume my every thought. Disoriented, I mustered every ounce of strength and made my way toward the changing room, my steps faltering and unsteady. Each movement felt like navigating through a labyrinth while my head spun relentlessly.

The backstage area seemed to stretch endlessly as I stumbled forward, desperate to keep my eyes open. My body trembled with the effort of remaining upright, and my mind teetered on the edge of oblivion. Shadows and shapes blended together in a kaleidoscope of confusion, distorting reality. But through the haze, one thought remained: I needed the pills for my migraines which was in my bag.

I stumbled through the changing room area, searching for my bag. The pain in my head intensified, the throb morphing into a merciless hammering. I fumbled with the zipper, finally finding the pill bottle buried within the depths of my belongings. 

Time was slipping away, every second counted. I knew I had to return to the runway, to complete the show I had worked so diligently for. Yet, as I hurriedly reached for the bottle of water, the agony reached its zenith, mercilessly seizing my body. My legs gave way beneath me, and I collapsed onto the cold, unforgiving floor.