Love Deferred (Andrei Roxas ans Fides Mondragon Story)

chapter 5: rehearsals

Fides gaining popularity in the US, appearing as the cover girl of a prominent magazine, modeling for signature brands of dresses and beauty products, and featuring on big billboards in business districts, is a testament to her rising influence and recognition in the fashion and beauty industry. Her increasing visibility in high-profile campaigns and media platforms suggests she is becoming a significant figure, potentially joining the ranks of well-known international models and influencers.

As Fides sips her coffee on her condominium's veranda, she gazes out at the city lights, the cool night air brushing against her skin.

Fides: (softly to herself) "What a view... Who would've thought I'd be here, living this life? The magazine covers, the billboards, the glamour... it's everything I dreamed of. But why does it feel like something's missing?"

She takes another sip, her thoughts drifting to her family back in the Philippines.

Fides: "I miss Dad. I miss his laughter, his wisdom. And Mom... her strength, her warmth. Hera and Psyche, my sisters, my confidantes... and my brothers, Erros, Kratus, Virtus. We were inseparable. Our home, our life together... it feels like another world now."

She sighs, feeling the weight of her memories.

Fides: "But I had to leave. I needed to find myself, to break free from the expectations, to live my own life. It wasn't just about escaping the shadows of my family's success... it was about carving out my path, proving to myself that I could do it."

She looks down at her hands, thinking of the journey that brought her here.

Fides: "Every photoshoot, every runway, it's a step towards my identity. I'm proud of what I've achieved. Yet, this loneliness... it's the price I pay for my escape. Maybe one day, I'll find a balance. Maybe one day, I'll go back and feel whole again."

She stands up, feeling the chill of the night.

Fides: "But for now, this is my place. This is my time to shine. I have to stay strong, for me, for my dreams. I owe it to myself to see this through. One step at a time, Fides. You're doing great."

She smiles softly, a tear escaping down her cheek as she turns back inside, determined to face tomorrow with renewed strength.

At the backstage at the rehearsal for the upcoming wedding gown fashion show. The room is filled with beautiful gowns, makeup artists, and stylists bustling around. Fides is with her close fellow models Shynn, Meera, Ashira, Venice, and Cielo.

Shynn: (adjusting her gown) "I can't believe we're finally here. This show is going to be amazing! Look at these gowns, they're stunning."

Meera: (smiling) "Yeah, it's a dream come true. We've all worked so hard to get here. Fides, how are you feeling about it?"

Fides: (smiling, though her eyes show a hint of nostalgia) "Excited, of course. This is a huge opportunity for all of us. But... I've been thinking a lot about home lately."

Ashira: (concerned) "Missing your family?"

Fides: (nods) "Yeah, especially with all the success. It feels a bit hollow without them here to share it with."

Venice: (putting a hand on Fides' shoulder) "I get that. We all left something behind to be here. But remember, they're proud of you, even from afar."

Cielo: (grinning) "And you're not alone. We're like family too, right? We've got each other's backs."

Shynn: " And think of it this way, every step we take here is also for them. We're building something amazing, not just for ourselves, but for everyone who believes in us."

Fides: (smiling more genuinely) "You're right. It's just sometimes, the loneliness creeps in. But having you all here makes it so much better."

Meera: (playfully) "Speaking of making it better, have you seen the lineup for tonight's rehearsal dinner? The food looks incredible!"

Ashira: (laughing) "Leave it to Meera to think about food in the middle of a fashion show!"

Venice: "Hey, food is important! We need our energy for the runway."

Cielo: "Exactly! And after this show, we should all go out and celebrate together. A night out, just us girls."

Fides: (grinning) "That sounds perfect. Thank you, ladies. You always know how to lift my spirits. Let's make this show unforgettable."

Shynn: "To an unforgettable show and even better times ahead!"

All: (raising imaginary glasses) "Cheers!"

They all laugh and continue preparing for the rehearsal, their bond strengthening as they support each other through the journey.

The rehearsal continues, with the models practicing their walks in the stunning wedding gowns. They take turns on the runway, each one receiving feedback from the director.

Director: (clapping) "Great job, ladies! Fides, you're up next. Show us what you've got."

(Fides takes a deep breath and steps onto the runway, her poise and grace evident in every step. The other models watch, cheering her on.)

Shynn: "Go, Fides! You've got this!"

Meera: "Flawless, as always!"

Ashira: "So elegant!"

(Fides finishes her walk, and the director nods approvingly.)

Director: "Excellent, Fides. Perfect timing and posture. Keep it up."

Fides: (smiling) "Thank you."

(Fides rejoins her friends, feeling more confident. They all take a short break, sitting together and chatting.)

Venice: "You were amazing out there, Fides. You make it look so effortless."

Fides: "Thanks, Venice. It feels good to be in the zone. But you know, it's not just about the walk. It's about the story we tell in these gowns."

Cielo: "Absolutely. Each gown has a story, and we bring it to life."

Meera: "Speaking of stories, Fides, you should tell us more about your family. We know bits and pieces, but we'd love to hear more."

Fides: (smiling, reminiscing) "Well, where do I start? My Dad, Doc Rafael, is a doctor—always caring and dedicated. Mom, Atty Alyza, is a lawyer, fierce and compassionate. My sisters, Hera and Psyche, they're triplets like me. We've always been so close. And then my older triplet brothers, Erros, Kratus, and Virtus—they're protective and supportive. Growing up in such a big, loving family was wonderful."

Ashira: "It sounds like you have a beautiful family. No wonder you miss them so much."

Fides: "I do. But I also needed to step out of that comfort zone, to prove to myself that I could make it on my own. It was hard, but necessary."

Shynn: "And look at you now. You're a star, Fides. They must be so proud of you."

Fides: "I hope so. I just want to make the most of this opportunity, to honor them and myself."

Cielo: "You're doing more than that. You're inspiring all of us. And whenever you feel homesick, remember we're here for you."

Venice: "And don't forget about the celebration after the show! We'll make new memories together."

Fides: (smiling warmly) "Thank you, everyone. You've become like family to me too. Let's make this show the best one yet."

(The director calls them back to continue the rehearsal, and the models rise, ready to give it their all. With their bond strengthened and their spirits high, they return to the runway, united in their passion and support for one another.)