~ Rewritten Fates ~

Chapter 2 - A Wish

Alex steps into his sleek, lavish studio, with Zahra following close behind, her tablet in hand. The room is filled with soft lighting, framed photographs lining the walls - testaments to Alex's skill as a photographer. In the center of the room stands Rafael Luna, the owner of the modelling industry Alex works for, and also a good friend. Rafael's sharp suit and commanding presence make him stand out, but his smile is warm when he spots Alex.

"Ah, Alex, good to see you," he says, extending his hand as Alex approaches. "Good to see you too," Alex replies, shaking Rafael's hand firmly before sitting down on the couch opposite him. He leans back slightly, glancing between Rafael and Zahra. "So, what's this meeting for?" he asks, curiosity evident in his tone.

Rafael clears his throat, his tone shifting to something more serious. "Well, Alex, I know how much you love photography - it's in your blood, I know that," he says, pausing for a moment. "But... you're our star, you know. Ever since you started your modelling career, you've been shining," he adds, his eyes locking with Alex's as if measuring his reaction.

Alex blinks, his curiosity deepening. "What's the matter?" he asks, leaning forward slightly. Rafael sighs, gathering his thoughts. "I want you to be part of my next project," he says. Alex raises and eyebrow. "And what is it?" he asks, his tone cautious but intrigued.

"Well, I want you to visit Singapore for a magazine photoshoot," Rafael begins, leaning forward. "It's basically.... I mean, I want to cover their traditional culture and lifestyle, you know. So, I want you to be the main face of this project." he says, watching Alex carefully, hoping to gauge his reaction. "And when do I have to go?" Alex asks, his tone steady but curious. "Um... I'll let you know soon," Rafael replies, a bit hesitantly, as if the exact details are still being worked out.

Alex glances at Zahra, knowing full well that rejecting the offer would mean facing her wrath. He sighs inwardly, the weight of the decision clear on his face. "Fine..." he mutters, reluctantly agreeing, all while Zahra shoots him a sharp, knowing look that says she expected nothing less. "Alright then, have a good night, Alex," Rafael says with a smile.

Alex nods, forcing a polite smile in return. As he and Zahra walk out of the room, Alex suddenly stops in his tracks, deep in thought, causing Zahra halt beside him. "What's wrong, kid?" she asks, her voice tinged with annoyance as she looks at him. "Uh... nothing," Alex mutters, shaking his head. "Where's Nora? I need to talk to her," he asks, glancing around as if expecting to spot her nearby.

"She's out with June," Zahra replies curtly. "Oh! On a date?" Alex smirks, his curiosity pigued. Zahra rolls her eyes and heads out, leaving Alex to ponder the situation on his own.

Alex sighs and starts to head out when a voice calls from behind, "Alex!" He turns around, frowning as he spots the man. "Miguel? What are you doing here?" he asks, his confusion evident.

"I was here to submit some files," Miguel says, smirking as he approaches. "But I guess Rafael wants you included in his project, right?" His expression is annoyingly smug. "Yeah, I mean... wait, how do you know?" Alex asks, his curiosity pigued. "Don't be so shocked, Alex," Miguel says, placing a hand on Alex's shoulder. "You know we're in the same industry, so I eventually hear about everything," he replies with a knowing grin.

"Whatever," Alex says, rolling his eyes. "So..." Miguel leans in closer, his gaze lingering on Alex, "If you're free, we should hit our favoring bar. What do you say?" he asks, his eyes scanning Alex from head to toe with a smirk. "Not today, Miguel. I have to figure out something, so maybe next time," Alex says with a strained smile before turning and walking out without looking back.

"No worries, we've got plenty of time for each other," Miguel calls after him, his tone dripping with insincerity.

~~~~~