Avenues of the Diamond (University Series #4)

23

"Samantha Vera! It's nice to finally meet you!" 

After arriving in New York, I wanted to take a nap with Clyden, but since my body was adjusting and I slept during the flight, I went straight to the agency, leaving Clyden in our hotel room, sleeping. He must be so tired. Hindi siya nakatulog masyado sa byahe at ang tagal pa. 

After the casual introduction, we finally went into the details of our contract. Good thing there were no policies about dating or getting married. They can also get a manager for me, or I could get one from the outside. Wala naman akong kilalang manager pa and I still didn't think that I would need it. I can manage things by myself for now. I wouldn't go to big events immediately, right? I should start from the bottom. 

I requested to be in the Philippines more, but I was also open to international bookings. They said they would contact me because they would still process my papers. The next day, I had to come back for a shoot with them so they could add me to their website and social media accounts. It was my first proper photoshoot, so I was so nervous! 

"Still jet lag?" I asked Clyden when I went home, carrying a box of pizza for him. He was still a little sleepy when I entered the bedroom. Nakadapa siya sa kama at yakap ang unang hinihigaan. "I went to the agency to sign some papers." 

"Why didn't you wake me up?" he asked in his sleepy voice. 

"You look so tired. It's good to rest. I managed by myself naman, so it's good. Here. I bought pizza for you and also ordered steak and wine from room service so we can celebrate!" I placed my bag on the couch and removed my heels. He groaned and got up to go inside the bathroom. 

We were only staying in New York for four days. I allotted enough time for us to go around. Besides, we can come back here next time kapag hindi siya busy. Good thing he already got a VISA beforehand, like me, so he was able to come. His family also traveled a lot. 

He sat on the couch and took a pizza slice while I told him about the contract. He was staring at me while eating and listening carefully. He was like memorizing the details of the contract by the way his face looked. 

"Tomorrow, I'm going to my first ever proper shoot. You can stay here and go around New York, or you can come with me if you want, though it's not necessary. Don't waste your time here following me around," I told him. 

"What do you mean? I came here for you, not because I wanted to go out," he said, rolling his eyes. I laughed and gave him a peck on the cheek. 

I was actually scared of entering this new door all alone, but good thing Clyden was with me all throughout the process of adjusting. He never left my side, even for a moment while the shoot was ongoing. Some people were staring at him not because they were confused about why he was there but because of his looks. His appeal was too strong. Mas bagay 'ata sa kanya ang mag-model kaysa sa 'kin. He had that kind of impact, the one that could make people's heads turn. 

He was watching me, so I felt a little awkward while the shoot was ongoing. He must have noticed, so he turned around and walked away, pretending to admire the studio. I relaxed a bit and did my best so everyone wouldn't be disappointed in accepting me. I learned how to be friends with the camera.