Author's Note: Random but important question - Readers, what do you think Patrice looks like? Otherwise, you might need tissues for this chapter.
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1982 - California
Patrice
Eventually, I discovered that Michael seemed jealous of Prince for whatever reason. My racing and puzzled thoughts just couldn't understand why, though.
After I explained how his "musical rival" met me and my mother last year, Jackson wanted to leave the restaurant.
We couldn't even eat meals together yet. This man reacted so childishly and I'd just met him over the phone.
"What's the problem? What's so terrible about meeting him?" I groaned.
"You know that he has a womanizing reputation, right? Don't even get involved." Michael shook his head immediately after my questioning.
"What are you talking about? I already know that Prince doesn't have a steady relationship. We're strictly professional. That man could've picked anyone to make that jacket, but he didn't. I'm grateful." I quickly defended myself.
Our previously wonderful conversation shifted again. Just like the other night during my first phone call with him.
"Someday, he'll trick you into thinking you're the only one who matters. You'll never be the only woman in his life. Like I said, he's a player. Don't entertain his foolishness." Michael lowered his voice this time.
"Let's just eat. I don't want to talk about this anymore. Who I associate with is none of your business, Michael." I still didn't care about his opinion for once and craved for wine at this point.
"Fine by me. Just don't cry when he breaks your heart, girl." Jackson then arched one eyebrow and took out his sunglasses and wore these accessories to ignore me.
"Since you're so hell bent on helping others avoid Prince, who broke your heart, Michael? I'd love to know." I questioned Jackson before long. Michael's arms folded once more.
We both still waited for dinner to arrive. I couldn't help wanting to rant his face, but simply lowered my voice instead.
"None of your business, Patrice. Just do yourself a favor and stay away from him. Your career will thank you." Michael grumbled under his breath without even facing me.
"Oh, shit! I just remembered something, Michael. Speaking of Prince, there's a promotional photo shoot involving his girl group "Vanity 6" and one of the make-up artists is pregnant. I'll be in Minneapolis tomorrow." I bitterly grinned at Michael just to piss him off even now. Even danced in my seat a little.
"You've got to be kidding. Don't tell me that's the same girl group who released "Nasty Girl" not too long ago. That record's disgusting. How did Prince even get disc jockeys to give it radio play?" Michael panicked immediately at this table. I couldn't believe his reaction.
Women weren't uptight and submissive housewives anymore. There was no problem expressing sexuality in my eyes. I loved those three ladies. Meeting the trio would be a treat tomorrow morning.
"Stop freaking out. I'm going to do it whether you like it or not." I clenched my teeth seconds later. Michael then calmed down long enough to avoid staring from other dining celebrities.
***
Minneapolis
"Hello, ladies!" After three knocks, I entered the dressing room on set early. The trio of "Vanity 6" already sported that controversial and sexy lingerie.
Brenda Bennett rocked pink. Susan Moosie draped in virgin white. And Denise "Vanity" Matthews shocked with black.
All their bare faces turned to face me. These ladies soon perked up after noticing the doughnut box in my hands.
We were all preparing for quite a long day. I always knew that mornings weren't favored by everyone. Even someone in my fast-paced industry.
"Hi. So, you're Patrice?" Vanity noticed me first. Susan and Brenda (Bennett) headed towards doughnuts once I placed those treats on the coffee table.
Even without cosmetics, Vanity was still painstakingly gorgeous. I could definitely see why Prince felt so captivated by this woman. Her beauty seemed unparalleled.
"Yes, we've never met but I'm sure Prince told you about me before this shoot." I shook hands with her for a moment.
"He did and I know you'll be fine helping us out today. Your work is amazing." Vanity smiled and primped in the mirror.
"Thanks so much. My voice awkwardly chuckled.
I hadn't even dolled up her face yet and girlfriend already started feeling herself in the mirror with that lingerie. Her band mates enjoyed doughnuts while prepared to help out.
Some women just knew they were bombshells. Vanity was one of those dames.
__
His Royal Badness showed up out of nowhere after lunch. Looking for me believe it or not. A lustful expression consumed his face. I knew that Vanity hooked up with him behind the scenes. All while Prince thought no one noticed.
I'd never forget trying to hide the bruises on Vanity's legs with countless products. Nothing worked. Marks still reside on her body in one photo to this day.
Lucky bitch.
While the photo shoot continued, Prince sat in a chair beside me. Music rumbled underneath us. Michael of all people. I instantly rolled my eyes, but Prince didn't even notice.
"Hey. How are you?" Prince whispered close by. The photographer continued snapping away. I shook my head.
My face couldn't even smile right now. Even loneliness washed over my mind for the first time in a while.
"Jetlagged, feeling ugly as hell, and not even appreciated. After this, I'm leaving." No more games. I couldn't take the pretense anymore.
Enough was enough.
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Exposed || MJ/Prince
Fanfiction"I've finally given myself a voice." - Patrice Cooper