the IT girl

The Podcast Interview

Lily sat in the cozy studio, the warmth of the lights enveloping her like a familiar blanket. The walls were lined with vibrant artwork and soundproof panels, a testament to the creative energy that buzzed within the space. She adjusted her microphone, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. It wasn't her first interview, but it felt different. This was with Mia, her best friend, and it was personal.

"Are you ready?" Mia asked, her bright smile radiating confidence. She sat across from Lily, her hair falling in loose waves, eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. They had been friends since childhood, and Mia's supportive presence was comforting.

"Ready as I'll ever be," Lily replied, taking a deep breath. She had agreed to this interview to share her story—not just the glamorous side of being a model but the struggles she had faced growing up.

With a nod, Mia hit the record button. "Welcome back to Real Talk with Mia! Today, we have a very special guest—my best friend, the fabulous Lily Ralph! How are you doing today, Lily?"

"I'm good, Mia! Excited to be here," Lily said, her voice steadying as she spoke into the microphone.

"Let's dive right in. You've had an incredible career as a model, but I know there's more to your story than just the runway. Can you tell us a little about your upbringing?" Mia asked, her tone genuine and inviting.

Lily hesitated for a moment, her heart racing. This was the part she had always found difficult to discuss. "Yeah, well... I grew up in a small town in Greece. It wasn't the happiest childhood, to say the least."

Mia nodded, encouraging her to continue. "What do you mean?"

Lily's gaze drifted to the window, as if searching for the right words in the clouds outside. "My home life was... complicated. My father struggled with alcohol, and there were times when things got really rough. My mom tried her best, but it was hard for both of us."

Mia leaned forward, empathy shining in her eyes. "That sounds really tough. How did you find the strength to pursue modeling despite everything?"

Lily took a deep breath, feeling the familiar weight of her past. "I always wanted to escape. Modeling was a way for me to break free and create a different life. I threw myself into it, and over time, I built a career. But I also had to learn to be strong on my own, to trust myself when no one else did."

Mia's expression softened, a mixture of pride and concern. "You've come so far, but it's okay to acknowledge the pain, too. Do you think it's made you stronger?"

"Definitely," Lily replied, her voice firmer now. "But it also means I find it hard to trust people. I put up walls, and it takes time for me to let anyone in. It's a constant battle between wanting connection and fearing it."

"Do you think that affects your relationships now?" Mia probed gently.

Lily paused, a hint of vulnerability flickering in her eyes. "Sometimes. I've always kept my distance from people, afraid they'd leave or hurt me. It's something I'm working on, especially since meeting someone who challenges me."

Mia's eyebrows raised playfully. "Oh? Someone special?"

Lily chuckled, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I wouldn't say special. Just someone who seems to have a knack for annoying me," she said, recalling her earlier encounter with Lando. "He's cocky and way too confident for his own good."

Mia grinned, sensing the shift in Lily's tone. "Sounds like you might be interested, then! But seriously, it's good to see you opening up. It's hard to share these things, but it's important for others to hear."

As the interview continued, Lily found herself relaxing more, the tension of the earlier show melting away. Sharing her story felt empowering, a reminder that she wasn't defined by her past. She hoped that by opening up, she could inspire others to confront their own struggles.

After the recording ended, Mia leaned back in her chair, a satisfied smile on her face. "You did amazing! I think people will really connect with your honesty."

"Thanks, Mia. It felt good to talk about it," Lily replied, feeling a sense of relief wash over her.

But as she left the studio, a part of her couldn't shake the memory of Lando's smug face. Maybe she needed to reconsider her walls, just a little.