Chapter 11: Not A Mere Woman
1028words
I parked my car in the garage at Imelda Models and stepped out, stretching as the warm breeze wrapped around me. There's nothing like being here; where my heart, mind, body, and soul belong. A new day for a fresh start.
"Welcome, Lady Gaga," one of my co-workers greeted, waving at me.
"I have told you to stop calling me that. What kind of title is that?"
We both headed inside. "What title better suits the company's top and favorite model, huh? Come on, don't be shy. Accept it," she said, making me smile.
"You never change, do you?" I teased.
"Not when it comes to you."
"Hello, everyone!" I waved cheerfully at my co-models in the fitting room.
Stepping into the fitting room feels like slipping into my second skin. The familiar scent of fabric, makeup, and hairspray envelops me, putting me at ease. I have been in this room countless times, but it still feels like a comfort zone. The hum of conversation, the rustle of clothes, and the clinking of hangers create a soothing background noise I have grown accustomed to. I catch my reflection in the mirrored walls and give myself a quick once-over, a habit I have developed over the years. The rows of garment racks look like old friends waiting to be tried on.
"Oh, my! The queen is here," my one and only makeup artist, and the only bakla in the industry, flitted in front of me. "What happened to your eyes? Did you even sleep? I have always told you to avoid stress to keep this skin glowing. Why aren't you listening to me? Come on, we need to touch up that look. Your face looks so dull," Lindsay jabbered, pulling me over to the vanity table.
He snapped his bubblegum and sat me down. "We need to add some glow to that face. Why didn't you sleep well, my queen?" Lindsay asked, clearly frustrated with my look.
"Can you stop exaggerating, Lindsay? I don't look that bad. I'm just stressed out," I said, cracking my neck.
"That's exactly what I'm saying. You can't go around getting stressed. Here, let's apply this first. Sit tight," he insisted. I grunted and tried to relax in the chair. "My God! You have to shoot today of all days!" Lindsay whined, flitting around the room to get everything in order.
Some hours later, I arrived at my father's house. I got out of the car and found him in the gazebo. I sighed and walked over to him.
"Good day, Dad," I greeted, sitting opposite him.
"Hello, my little princess. How have you been?" he asked, setting down his glass on the table.
"I have been stressed out, Dad. What's going on?"
"Come on, my princess. Who's stressing you out? Is it your husband or your mother-in-law?" he asked, examining my face.
"Stop it, Dad," I pushed his hand away. "Why did you sell your shares in Reyes Legacy Jewels to a stranger without my husband's knowledge? You know how Nathan is; he's choking me over this."
"What? Did he hurt you?"
"I'm serious, Dad. I know I don't like meddling in your business, but your decision is affecting my marriage. Nathan is threatening divorce if you don't undo what you have done," I said, hanging my head.
"No, he won't do that. Look, my princess. I did it for your sake, okay? I sold my shares to protect you."
"To protect me from what?"
"I didn't sell them willingly. She wanted them, and I couldn't say no. It was to keep you safe."
"Who the hell are you scared of, Dad? How can you let a mere woman threaten you about my safety, and you just gave in? Have you lost your self-respect?"
"She's not just a mere woman, my princess. I don't know who she really is. She just appeared out of nowhere, owning the largest company in the jewelry industry, and using her influence to threaten businessmen like me. She isn't focused on any other company but Reyes Legacy Jewels. I even offered to sell my 50% share in Classic Gems, but she refused and insisted on Reyes Legacy Jewels. I couldn't risk your life, my princess. I had to sell it to her," he explained. I have never seen my dad as terrified as he looks right now. I couldn't even close my mouth in disbelief.
"This makes no sense to me, Dad!" I snapped. "How can a woman appear out of nowhere and shake you and other top chairmen in the country? She's just a woman, for crying out loud!" I groaned in frustration.
"You don't have to worry about your husband, my princess. I will speak with him, and everything will be settled," he assured me.
"You better do, Dad," I said, gulping down his drink.
Just then, my phone started ringing. "Yes?" I answered.
"You have to come back now, my queen. I think the worst has happened," Lindsay cried over the phone.
"You always exaggerate, Lindsay. What could have happened?" I asked, not losing my calm.
"Just come right away. The boss wants to see you," he said and hung up.
"Is there a problem?" my dad asked.
"I'm not sure, Dad. I have to go. I will call you," I said, picking up my bag and standing up.
"Be careful."
"I will," I promised.
As I reached the garage, I paused, my attention drawn to the Ferrari that had just parked.
A woman emerged from the car like a vision, her stunning emerald dress and sleek heels making her look like a billion pesos. Her long black hair flowed behind her like a dark halo, and her designer bag and sunglasses added a touch of glamor. Even as a top model, I felt a twinge of jealousy. She removed her sunglasses, allowing the warm sun to highlight her sparkling honey-brown eyes. She turned, catching my gaze. My breath hitched as those unforgettable honey-brown eyes locked onto mine.
"Snap out of it, Eve!" My inner voice scolded me. I quickly averted my eyes and got into my car as the woman walked away.
