FUCKED.

16

I woke up early in the morning feeling unexpectedly joyful. The day ahead promised excitement, and I was eager to make the most of it. After attending my lectures, I returned home to get ready. Jason had already stopped by to pick up Sapphire, and Keisha was in her room, meditating. Not knowing when Travis would arrive, I quickly jumped into the shower and began preparing.

I chose a set of sexy lingerie as my base layer, and for the outfit, I went with a forest green, v-neck blouse that highlighted my cleavage. I paired it with a black bodycon pencil skirt that had a daring slit all the way up to my thighs. To complete the look, I wore red heels and carried a gold clutch. I opted for minimal makeup, aiming for a natural yet alluring appearance.

Keisha emerged from her room, and her eyes widened as she took in my outfit.

"You look absolutely stunning," she exclaimed. With a grin, she pulled me over to take some pictures.

"Come sit so I can finish your makeup before Travis gets here," she insisted. I knew better than to argue; once she started, she'd use every product in her kit on me. She diligently applied foundation, mascara, and several other cosmetics I wasn't familiar with. After what felt like an eternity, the doorbell rang, and my nerves kicked in. My palms were sweaty, betraying my anxiety.

Keisha went to answer the door, and there stood Travis, looking exceptionally handsome in an Armani suit. I was taken aback by how effortlessly stylish he looked. I felt a surge of desire but quickly composed myself and greeted him with a kiss. His gaze lingered on me, clearly appreciative of my outfit.

"These roses are for you, babe," he said, presenting me with a beautiful bouquet.

"Thank you," I replied, touched. "I'll make sure to put them in a vase when we get back." He took my hand, guiding me out.

"Goodbye, kids! Remember to use protection and don't forget to pray!" Keisha called out, making us both laugh. Travis held the door open for me, and I slid into the car, settling into the passenger seat while he drove.

"You look beautiful, love. Your braids are incredible," he complimented. I thanked him and gave him a light kiss. He drove us to an undisclosed location, revealing only that it was a surprise.

We arrived at a charming French restaurant, and I was immediately impressed by its elegant interior. A hostess escorted us to our table and handed us menus. While I struggled with the French menu, Travis, fluent in the language, confidently placed our order. The food that arrived was as exquisite as its aroma.

As we enjoyed our meal, we chatted about everything from our past relationships to amusing anecdotes. Travis shared stories about his eccentric exes, and I recounted my dating experiences. We laughed heartily until dessert arrived. The red velvet cake, my favorite, looked heavenly. Travis snapped a picture of me indulging in it, playfully sharing it on social media.

"I love you, Chloe," he said warmly.

"I love you too, Travis," I replied. "But you have to promise me one thing."

"What's that?" he asked, looking curious.

"That no matter what comes our way, you'll stick with me," I said, locking eyes with him. He kissed me and nodded in agreement.

"Shall we head out now?" he asked, and I agreed. He settled the bill and kindly escorted me back to the car. We returned to his apartment, and let's just say, if the neighbors heard us, we wouldn't have cared.

Later, Keisha and Sapphire were eager to see my dress for the upcoming event. When I emerged in it, they were awestruck.

"Wow, this dress is incredible!" Sapphire exclaimed. "It's like Travis knows your body so well," Keisha added with a dramatic facepalm.

"The sequins on the back and the bold yellow are just perfect," Sapphire said, admiring the details. "Travis is a keeper. You've got to hold onto him," they both cheered.

We had a few hours before the event, so I settled in front of the TV to watch "Desperate Housewives" while Sapphire scurried around searching for a hair straightener. Keisha was on the phone, her conversation seemingly endless. Despite my reluctance to go, knowing someone specific would be there, I was getting ready.

By six, I went to my room to change into my dress. It fit flawlessly, hugging every curve. I paired it with my clutch and heels. Sapphire came in looking ethereal, dressed as a fairy. She styled my hair and finished my makeup, and we planned to leave at seven. However, it was already nine by the time we were finally ready, and the guys were repeatedly calling us to hurry up.

Once we arrived at the event, it was nothing short of spectacular. Sapphire's bikini pictures were displayed prominently, and many people were eager to take photos with her. I wandered inside, admiring the edited photos, which were impressive. Travis was busy taking credit for his gothic-themed pictures, clearly pleased with how they turned out.

I approached him and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

"You always surprise me, babe," I said. "Have you seen your pictures?"

"I haven't," he admitted, looking puzzled. "What dress are you talking about?"

"You didn't send it?" I asked, confused. Before he could respond, we were interrupted by a familiar face.

"Travis, darling, can I have a picture with you?" Hailey cooed, showing off her cleavage. I looked at Travis and whispered in his ear to handle it. While I continued browsing the photos, I noticed my own images on display with Iris, featuring a theme titled "Seduction." I had explicitly told Mr. Michelson I didn't want to be the face of this event. My privacy had been invaded, and I felt a wave of frustration.

I found a group of students gathered around another photo and overheard Mr. Michelson's voice. He was discussing my picture with Iris, who looked displeased. Michaelson's intense stare at him suggested that things were not going smoothly.

"And if it isn't the star of the event," Michaelson said, approaching me. I wanted to confront him but restrained myself.

"I need to speak with you, Sir," I said firmly.

"I know you're upset, Chloe," Michaelson began. "But it was for the event. I'm sorry if you're unhappy, but I promise I'll make it up to you in your next shoot. Now, smile and wave like the model you are before I have to suspend you from my class," he joked, trying to lighten the mood.

Though I was still annoyed, his attempt at humor helped ease my frustration a bit.