METANOIA

1

- Alexi -

"You've got to be kidding me." I look over at my friend Anna who is rolling her eyes as she looks out the window. I look to see the rain pounding down on the sidewalk.

"Well what should we expect it is London after all," I say lightheartedly.

Anna and I had just left our last lecture of the day, gender neutral fashion design.  Ever since I moved to London last year, Anna has been a good friend of mine. She was always the one to pull me out of the studio to enjoy all of what London had to offer.

I open my umbrella and brace myself for the inevitable chill of the London air. Anna walks next to me, her long red hair whipping around from the wind. "So, are you going to lock yourself in the studio again this weekend or are you actually going to enjoy some of your youth with the rest of us?" Anna said in a playful tone.

We had just got done with a portfolio review and most students would spend the weekend drinking too much at the local bars. Some celebrating their hard work and others drinking to forget their failures.  I liked to utilize this time to focus on expanding my collection. I know how competitive the fashion industry is and refuse to be another hopeful designer who crumbles under the pressure.

"I don't know Anna; the Met Gala is only four months away and if I want to get that internship with Gucci I have to be the best."

To say Alessandro Michele was my idol would be the understatement of the year. His appointment at Gucci in 2015 is what inspired me to pursue men's fashion. Working the Met would not only be a sizable experience but also kindle connections that could one day lead to a job.

"Did you just hear yourself?" Anna said throwing her hands up in exasperation. "The Met is FOUR months away! One night away from the studio isn't going to kill you!" By this point Anna's dramatics has drawn the glares from others walking along the streets. 

 "Alright, Alright. Quiet down. The whole of London doesn't need to know." I say trying not to laugh at Anna's theatrics. "However, I do have one condition." I say with a hint of mischief, knowing that Anna will hate me for what I'm about to say. "You have to take tequila shots with me." Anna's green eyes instantly glare at me but I just look back with a smug look on my face. "Well do we have a deal?" I say not breaking eye contact but struggling not to burst into a fit of laughter.

"You are a different kind of evil Alexi." Anna sighs before continuing, "but just know I will not be responsible for my actions post tequila."

I finally release the laughter I had been holding in, unable to continue our bantering. Anna also joins in knowing that although she got what she wanted, she would definitely regret it the morning after.