I woke up feeling devastated by the events of yesterday. My motivation had completely dwindled. Yesterday morning, I had envisioned this summer to be the best one yet, filled with moments spent with Mase and deepening our connection. But reality took an unexpected turn.
I had to wake up early to ensure I arrived at the modeling agency's office by 8:30 am. Today was nearly an introductory meeting, and they might take a few shots of me to assess my potential. After getting ready and finishing breakfast, I left my apartment and made my way to the underground. The agency was located in central London, and it would take me approximately 10 minutes by underground. Exiting the station, I walked down the street for about four blocks until I reached the office of the modeling agency.
I entered the building with a sense of nervousness. Modeling was completely outside of my comfort zone, but deep down, I had a genuine desire to pursue it. As I opened the door to the office, a friendly lady greeted me from the front desk.
"Good morning, how may I help you?" she asked kindly.
"Good morning, I have a scheduled meeting with Marie Fray," I informed her.
"Great, she's ready for you. If you follow the hall down to the end and take the door on the left, there will be a nametag on the door as well," she said with a smile.
"Thank you for your help," I replied, expressing my gratitude, and proceeded to walk down the hallway. As I reached the door, I knocked on it and Marie Fray, the lady I was scheduled to meet, opened it. We took our seats, and she began asking me questions in a natural and friendly manner, instantly putting me at ease.
"Hi Palma, good to see you!" she greeted with a smile.
"Hey, nice seeing you too," I replied, returning the smile.
"Let's start by having you tell me something about yourself," she suggested, still smiling.
"Of course. I'm 18 years old and I grew up with my family in Monaco. Then I moved here to London on my own and have been here for 6 months. I love it here. I've completed high school but I'm currently waiting to start university until I figure out what I really want to do."
"Lovely. And have you ever done any modeling-related stuff?" she inquired kindly.
"No, never. I've always been intrigued by the idea of modeling, but I never pursued it. I didn't really know how to break into the industry, so I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity you guys are giving me!" I responded.
Our conversation flowed smoothly from there, and about 20 minutes into the interview, she asked if we could take some pictures of me. These photos would be used by the agency to assess my potential and if I were to get the position, they would be displayed on my portfolio for brands to consider me for shoots. I wrapped up the interview with a positive feeling. While I hadn't been actively seeking a job, this opportunity felt like it could be a fulfilling and engaging experience. Marie also mentioned the possibility of traveling to other countries for photo shoots, which sounded incredibly exciting to me. Moreover, the position offered flexibility, as it didn't involve regular working hours.
I left the building and quickly made my way to the nearest train station, eager to catch my flight that was scheduled right after the interview. As I settled into my seat on the train, my phone buzzed with a text notification. It was from Mase again, as I still haven't responded on his last one from yesterday. My emotions were still raw, and I wasn't sure if I was ready to engage in a conversation with him just yet.
Mason and Palma
Messages
Mason
I know we both are struggling right now, and I can bear being in my own body, knowing how betrayed you might feel. I'm truly sorry for what has happened and can't imagine a newspaper making us go our separate ways. You mean everything to me, you were my source of joy, and waking up every day with you brought me genuine happiness. I'm so miserable and don't know what to do. I'm thinking about you day and night and wish we just could go back to normal. You may need time and space, and I am willing to give you that. Just know that I will be here, waiting for you, with all my heart. <3
Palma
I need time.
I couldn't bear not responding any longer, so I sent him a stern reply to make it clear that I am still deeply hurt. It's hard to determine whether he truly meant every word or if he's manipulating emotions. Reading his message did make me consider that he might be feeling as miserable as I am. However, I'm still skeptical because of the whole article situation, which feels unsettling.
After arriving at the airport, I managed to check in and find my seat on the plane. I had a three-hour flight ahead of me, but fortunately, I fell asleep quickly and woke up just in time for landing. At the luggage claim, I only had to wait a few minutes before retrieving my suitcase. I walked out of the airport and was greeted by my family whom I had missed so much. Hugs were exchanged, and we made our way to the parking lot to find our car. My dad sat behind the wheel with my mom by his side, while my brother and I settled in the back seats. As we arrived home, everything was as familiar as I remembered. I sat in my favorite spot in our garden, ready to relax and unwind. Just then, I noticed Willa calling me. I answered the phone and went to my room, seeking a bit more privacy.
Call between Willa and Palma
"Hey, girl, feeling better?" Willa asked, hoping for a positive response.
"It's still new, and I think about it a lot, but spending time with my family helps," I replied.
"I'm happy you're with your family! But I have something I feel like I have to tell you," she said.
"Uhh, go on," I responded, curious.
"So, Chilly called me earlier today, and we chatted a bit. Obviously, the conversation eventually turned to you and Mase's situation. Then he told me about how hurt Mase is. When they got back, Mase went home and found the key you left. Finding the key made him realize he lost you, and he called Chilly to go get him. When Chilly arrived, Mase was completely teared up and has been staying at Chilly's ever since," she explained to me. "But remember, I'll support you in any decision. I just felt like I was keeping a secret from you if I didn't tell you."
"Oh, Christ, I'm bawling my eyes out right now," I said, struggling to hold back the tears. "I know we feel the exact same way, but I feel so stupid going back to him, even though he might not have done anything." I expressed my confusion and hurt over everything.
"I didn't mean to make you cry, Palms. I'll end the call so you can get back to your family. Remember, I love you!" she said.
"Love you too," I replied, and then I hung up.
Thoughts of Mase overwhelmed me, and I couldn't help but cry. I missed him so much and longed for our relationship. Knowing that he was feeling just as terrible as I was made me even more saddened. As I sat there crying in my room, my brother walked in, interrupting my sorrow.
"Noo, Palms, what's wrong?" he asked, joining me on my bed.
"Just the whole thing with Mase," I confided to him, as he was already aware of the situation.
"I'm sorry. Has anything new happened?" he asked, showing his concern.
"Willa just called and told me all about how Mase is also crying, and it's just so hard to hear because I feel the same way and miss him so much," I said, tears streaming down my face.
"Just try to let it escape your mind while you're away from London," he suggested, "Tomorrow will be great. We'll be going to the race."
YOU ARE READING
Bend the rules
Fanfiction"I couldn't help but feel that the ball I shot was more than just a physical action - it was Amor's arrow finding its mark"
