The Weight of Farewells (Behind the Scenes Series #1)

Chapter 4

Number

"Lean in a little, Elle" the photographer commands, still peering through the lens of his camera, as he adjust the focus.

I lean in toward the wall staring directly into the camera. I tilt my chin upwards- shoulders back, chest forward, my hands are lifted above my head.

"Okay, perfect!" he shouts, taking several shots quickly.

"You're doing great! Now, give me a fierce look. Think confident!" his eyes spark with excitement.

I tilt my head to the side, pressing my lips together, fiercely stare into the camera.

"That's what I'm talking about, hold on to that look!" malawak ang ngiti ng photographer satisfied sa mga naging poses ko.

Mukhang maaga rin kaming matatapos sa shoot today. Buti naman kasi may pupuntahan pa ako.

My feet are aching from all the poses and outfit changes. Nakatayo rin siya for almost 4 hours straight kaya nangangalay na talaga ang mga paa niya.

I glance at Beverly, who's grinning from ear to ear, giving me a thumbs up sign. I smiled and nod back at her.

When the shoot wraps up, diretso niya akong pinuntahan. "You're really born for this, Elle. Look at you-stunning."

She guides me to the dressing room and instructed her secretary to get me something to eat. Hindi ko rin napansin na lunchtime na pala. As I sit in front of the mirror, Beverly is busy talking to her secretary behind me.

I stare at my reflection, I'm wearing a white collared shirt underneath a brown knitted vest, paired with a black mini skirt, and sheer black tights. My honey-brown hair styled in loose waves, which complemented the overall look of the style.

"I can really see the young Eleanor in you." Beverly said softly, her gazed also fixed on my reflection.

Ngumiti ako ng mapait doon. My, mom. I always wanted to look like her when I was younger.

Mukhang napansin din ni Beverly ang pagbabago ng expresiyon sa mukha ko kaya kaagad niyang iniwas ang tingin sa'kin.

" I miss that woman", she said with a sad smile. "You know how she ruled the runway before. Halimaw ang babaeng 'yon!" Yeah, I can agree. May mga videos pa nga akong nasave sa laptop ko noong nagmomodelo pa si mommy.

"Alam mo, hindi talaga ako nagkamali na ikaw ang kinuha kong model para dito. You've got the talent, the beauty, and charisma, Elle. It's like I'm seeing Eleanor's younger self, but you're more bolder and confident." Ngumiti siya at mataman akong tinignan.

"I will never forget the day when you were born. That's the only time I saw Eleanor cry like a baby." Beverly smiled, but I can see her forcing not to cry.

"I really miss her, Elle. K-kung... pwede lang sumama na ako sa kaniya baka nagawa ko na." I heave a sigh as I felt the lump in my throat. I don't want to cry. Mommy hates it when I cry.

How I wish you were here, mom. Madami ang nalungkot noong nawala ka.

"But, you know I can't leave this business behind. We planned of this together... And I want you to have it when... you're ready, Elle."

"Pero, you know naman, I'm not good at handling business and-"

"You'll know when you're ready, Elle. I'm not expecting you to handle it right now." She cut me off before I could disagre. She smiled once more but this time it's a genuine smile that reached her eyes. It was like she was assuring me that I'd be fine when that time comes.