Just One

Chapters 31 and 32

Chapter – 31 ANNA "And when would you like us to come there?"

Almost every day in the morning, when I open my cell phone in the early hours of the day, I'm incredibly greeted once again by someone sharing or commenting on my video with Leeo. Does this only happen to me? Does Nick have the displeasure of experiencing this every morning? I bet that Leeo must be sharing it tirelessly, trying to keep it alive for longer.

Sometimes, I try to avoid watching it, but I confess that most of the time, I can't resist, and I end up watching it, causing a certain tension in my lower body. It feels like all my energy is directed to one specific place. My memories are triggered, and, at the same time, as I feel a kind of relaxation, my ego comes into play, sending me flashes of unpleasant scenes with Zack. It's a conflict I face almost every time.

Today is the day to find out if Norris' invitation is serious and professional. I researched the modeling agency online and noticed that it has a good reputation in the market. I've seen many renowned models in their portfolio. I believe this is an excellent opportunity to raise some money to help with my university expenses.

I asked my mother to call Norris because I couldn't stand waiting any longer. Fortunately, I'm not biting my nails completely this time because I have gel nails. Otherwise, I would have already drawn blood from myself.

While my mother is calling Norris, I'm sitting next to her, devouring a bowl of plain cereal to somehow discharge my anxiety.

We're on speakerphone, and the call has already been transferred to Norris. As soon as she picks up, my mother starts speculating: "Hello, Norris, how are you? My name is Mariana Winner, and I am Anna's mother. She told me about the conversation you had on the phone yesterday and the invitation to visit the modeling agency. I'm here with Anna by my side, and I would like to ask you a few questions if you'll allow me."

"Of course, Mrs. Mariana, no problem at all. I understand that you might have a lot of questions, especially since the agency contacted you, and most of the time it's the models who come to us to join our portfolio," explains Norris.

"Honestly, this invitation seemed a bit strange to us, especially because Anna is not a model. And she also told me that you contacted us because you liked a video of her with..." - my mother, moving her lips but without making a sound, mentions the word "boyfriend," trying to confirm with me if she should say that Leeo is my boyfriend or not. Impulsively, I nod my head yes, and she continues: "...a video of her with her boyfriend that went viral on the internet, is that right?"

Norris calmly clarifies, detailing her role at the agency as a "scout" responsible for looking for new faces on social media. She explained that she believed I would be an excellent addition to the agency because I'm a gorgeous and expressive girl. In fact, Norris mentions that she already has in mind a job for an international brand's campaign, where the client would like me to be part of the model casting. She points out that there is no guarantee that I will be approved, but if I am selected, I could start the campaign with a fee ranging from US$50,000. Additionally, Norris mentions that several factors can increase this amount throughout the campaign. It also depends on the type of contract I sign with the agency.

Speaking of expression, mine is now stunned; my eyes want to pop out of my face, my hands and legs are restless, and my heart is racing.

My mother still looks at me skeptically, her frown showing disbelief, and she continues to question: "Norris, what kind of campaign is this? Which product specifically? Could you tell me which brand it is?"

Norris mentions that she can't reveal the client's name but informs us that this campaign's product is the launch of a perfume. She emphasizes again that there is no guarantee that I will be approved, but I don't need to worry about the costs of setting up the book, plane tickets, or accommodation, as the agency will fully cover everything. She reassures my mother that she can accompany me throughout the entire process.