Delvado Series #4: Broken Compass

Prologue

The backstage of the fashion show pulsed with electric energy, a whirlwind of excitement and nerves as models rushed around, each preparing for their moment in the spotlight.

The air was thick with the scent of hairspray and makeup, mingling with the anticipation that buzzed through the crowd. I stood in front of the mirror, my heart racing as I adjusted the straps of my glittering gown.

Tonight was the night I had dreamed about for years-a chance to showcase my talent on a runway that had launched countless careers. I could hardly believe it was finally happening.

With each brushstroke of makeup, I transformed into a vision of beauty, my dark hair cascading in waves down my back. The makeup artist applied a shimmering highlighter, accentuating my cheekbones and giving me a radiant glow. I studied my reflection, taking in the striking emerald dress that hugged my curves perfectly, symbolizing my journey-bold and vibrant, just like the dreams I was chasing. This was my moment to shine, to prove to myself and everyone around me that I belonged here.

As I stepped away from the mirror, the murmur of the crowd outside grew louder. My heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and anxiety, the rhythmic beat of the music resonating in my chest. Taking a deep breath, I tried to steady my nerves, reminding myself of all the rehearsals and countless hours spent preparing for this moment.

"Remember to walk confidently, Nica!" Mia called out, her hair piled high as she rushed by. "You've got this!"

I forced a smile, grateful for her encouragement, but self-doubt clawed at my insides. What if I stumbled? What if I wasn't good enough? My mind raced through a series of "what ifs," but I pushed them aside. This was the culmination of my hard work and dedication, and I refused to let fear overshadow my moment.

"Models to the stage, now! You're up!" The show director poked her head around the corner, her voice cutting through the chatter.

With a final glance in the mirror, I steeled myself. The vibrant colors of the lights spilled into the backstage area, beckoning me forward. As I joined my fellow models, adrenaline surged through my veins, fueling my determination. Each girl was a testament to beauty and grace, and I felt a flicker of pride to be among them.

"Okay, Nica, you're first!" a stagehand urged, giving me a reassuring nod.

I took a deep breath, my body tingling with anticipation. The curtain lifted, revealing dazzling lights and an audience filled with eager faces. I stepped onto the runway, the spotlight instantly capturing me.

The music surged, a vibrant beat propelling me forward. I felt the energy of the crowd wash over me, a wave of support and admiration elevating me with every step.

"Just keep walking," I whispered, my heart pounding. "You can do this."

Walking with confidence, I swayed my hips, the fabric of my gown flowing around me like a second skin. Flashes from cameras lit up the space, the clicking sounds melding into a symphony of admiration. I focused on the end of the runway, where I would strike my pose, but then, something caught my eye.

In the audience, a familiar face stood out among the sea of spectators. It was him-Philip. The boy who had once held my heart but also shattered it. My breath hitched as our eyes locked, and in that instant, the world around me faded away. Time seemed to slow, the music dimming as everything else blurred into the background.

"Nica, you're killing it!" a crew member shouted from the side, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

I managed a smile, but all I could focus on was Philip's gaze, dark and piercing, pulling me back to memories I desperately tried to forget. The warmth of the spotlight felt cold under the weight of our shared past-the secrets, the heartbreak, the pain.

"Keep it together!" I muttered, feeling a mix of excitement and dread.

As I reached the end of the runway, I struck my pose, but all I could think about was Philip. The hurt and betrayal flashed before me like a slideshow, reminding me of the darkness that loomed behind his gaze. This runway was supposed to be my escape, my moment to prove I had risen above it all, yet here he was, a haunting reminder of what I had fought to leave behind.