Six months had flown by since Daniel was born. The once quiet nights had been replaced with baby cries and laughter, but Lily and Lando had adjusted to the chaos with grace. Between feeding schedules and toddler tantrums from Gemma, the couple had found a rhythm. However, today was a big day for Lily—it was her return to the runway, and not just any runway. She was walking for Victoria's Secret.
The day started early, with Lily carefully packing her essentials for the show. Gemma sat on the bed, playing with her doll, while baby Daniel cooed in his crib. Lando leaned against the doorframe, holding a cup of coffee, a proud smile on his face.
"You nervous?" he asked.
"A little," Lily admitted, zipping her bag. "It's been a while since I've done something this big. I just hope I still have it."
Lando walked over and pulled her into a hug. "You're going to be amazing. You've been amazing since the day I met you. Now go show the world why you're a star."
Gemma tugged at Lily's hand. "Mommy, are you going to wear angel wings?"
Lily laughed and crouched down to her daughter's level. "Maybe. You'll see pictures later, okay? Be good for Daddy and look after your little brother."
"I will!" Gemma chirped, hugging her mom tightly.
Lando kissed Lily before she left, whispering, "We'll be cheering for you from home."
The backstage area at the show buzzed with energy—models rushing to fittings, stylists perfecting last-minute touches, and makeup artists working their magic. Lily found herself seated in front of a massive mirror, surrounded by a team transforming her into the epitome of glamour.
Her outfit was breathtaking—a shimmering silver bodysuit adorned with crystals and paired with enormous, feathered angel wings. As the final touches were made, Lily glanced at her reflection. She felt powerful, radiant, and ready to conquer the stage again.
"Lily, you're up next!" called the stage manager.
Taking a deep breath, she stepped into the lineup. The music blared, and the audience cheered as the models strutted down the runway. When it was Lily's turn, she stepped out confidently, her long legs gliding across the stage, her wings glittering under the lights. The crowd roared. Cameras flashed. She felt alive.
As she walked, her mind briefly wandered to Lando and the kids. She could almost picture them watching from the couch, Gemma clapping enthusiastically, and Daniel nestled in Lando's arms.
Back at home, Lando had indeed gathered the kids for the big moment. Gemma sat cross-legged on the couch, a bowl of popcorn in her lap. Daniel was dozing peacefully in his bouncer.
"There she is!" Lando exclaimed when Lily appeared on the screen.
"Mommy looks like a princess!" Gemma squealed, bouncing with excitement.
"She does, doesn't she?" Lando said, his voice filled with pride.
He couldn't stop smiling as he watched Lily command the runway with elegance and grace.
When Lily returned home later that night, she found Lando waiting for her in the living room, holding a glass of wine. The kids were already asleep.
"How was it?" he asked, pulling her into a hug.
"It was incredible," Lily said, her eyes shining. "But I missed you all so much."
"We missed you too. But you were amazing, Lily. Gemma said you looked like a princess, and I agree."
She laughed softly and leaned into him. "I'm just glad to be back home."
YOU ARE READING
the IT girl
RomanceLily Ralph, a 23-year-old Greek model, is strong-willed and independent. Growing up in an abusive household, she developed deep trust issues, making it hard for her to let people in. Despite her tough exterior, there's a vulnerability underneath, on...