The CEO
1241 Words
Gabriella glances at April. “Well,” she says, “your first shoot is out of the way, so we need to focus on building your portfolio. We’ll get these shots retouched and added to your book, and then start sending you out for more castings and go-sees.”
April nods, her mind already racing with possibilities. “Do you think I’ll have a chance to model for any big brands?” she asks.
Gabriella smiles. “I think you’ve got a good shot.
Over the course of several days, April’s schedule becomes increasingly packed with various modeling assignments.
At a swimwear campaign casting, April meets Luiza, a Brazilian model who introduces her to some basic Portuguese phrases. During a photo shoot for a young designer’s lookbook, April befriends Evie, a British model who shares her passion for thrift store finds.
As April navigates this new, fast-paced world of modeling, she begins to form connections and forge friendships, finding support and camaraderie within this tight-knit community.
The next afternoon, as April is on her way to a fitting, her phone rings. She pulls it out, seeing Gabriella’s name on the screen.
“Hey,” April says, answering the call.
“Hey there,” Gabriella replies. “I’ve got some exciting news for you. The CEO of the agency is coming in tomorrow for a visit. He’s going to want to meet all of the new models.”
April’s heart skips a beat. “Really?” she says.
Gabriella’s tone is animated, reflecting the gravity of the situation. “Yes,” she says, “and this is huge, April. The CEO rarely comes into the office, and when he does, he usually stays for less than an hour. He doesn’t even usually take the time to meet new models. You should consider yourself lucky that he wants to meet you.”
April’s mind races with questions and doubts. “I don’t know what to expect,” she says.
“...you can’t really expect anything,” Gabriella continues. “The CEO is a bit of an enigma. He could be impressed with you, or he could completely ignore you. The only thing you can do is be yourself and hope for the best.”
April nods, taking a deep breath. “Alright. I can do that.”
Gabriella’s tone softens. “Listen,” she says, “don’t worry too much about this.
“Alright,” April says, her voice taking on a more determined tone. “I’m not going to stress about this. But you know what I am going to do?”
“What’s that?” Gabriella asks.
“I’m going shopping,” April replies. “I figure I should make a good impression, and that starts with a killer outfit.”
Gabriella laughs. “I like your thinking,” she says. “But don’t go too crazy.
The next day, April arrives at the agency with butterflies fluttering in her stomach. She’s sporting a sleek new outfit, a form-fitting white dress that shows off her curves and highlights her sun-kissed skin. Her blonde hair is styled into loose, beachy waves, and her makeup is understated but flawless.
As she steps into the building, she sees Gabriella waiting for her near the elevator. Gabriella’s eyes light up when she sees April’s outfit.
“You look stunning,” Gabriella says, beaming.
“Thanks,” April says, feeling a rush of confidence. “I figured if I’m going to meet the CEO, I should look the part.”
“You definitely do,” Gabriella agrees. “Now, the CEO is scheduled to arrive in about thirty minutes, so I suggest you grab a cup of coffee downstairs and then come back up. The wait will be nerve-wracking, but you’ll be better off with something to do.”
April nods, grateful for the advice.
April descends the elevator and crosses the lobby, passing the reception desk with a quick smile and wave. As she heads for the coffee shop, she’s already mentally rehearsing what she’ll say when she meets the CEO.
As she reaches for the coffee shop door, she bumps into a tall, dark-haired man who’s exiting at the same time.
“Oh, I’m sorry,” April says, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.
The man waves off her apology. “No harm done,” he says with a charming smile. “Are you here for coffee?”
April nods, still feeling a bit self-conscious. “Yeah, I thought a caffeine boost might help me stay calm for the rest of the day.”
The man grins, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “A wise choice,” he says. “Caffeine is always a good idea in stressful situations.”
April smiles, grateful for the light-hearted banter. “I couldn’t agree more.” She steps inside the coffee shop, motioning for the man to follow.
As she places her order, she catches a glimpse of the man out of the corner of her eye, studying her intently.
The man orders a black coffee, his gaze never leaving April. She can feel his eyes on her, and she’s starting to wonder if she’s overthinking things. Is he interested, or is she just being paranoid?
As they wait for their drinks, the man breaks the silence. “So, what brings you here today?” he asks, his voice casual but curious.
April pauses for a moment, wondering how much she should reveal. “I’m…I’m here for work,” she says finally.
The man’s eyes widen at her response, but before he can ask any follow-up questions, his watch beeps, a soft yet insistent sound that seems to startle him.
“Oh, I apologize,” he says, checking his watch. “I’m running late for a meeting. I should probably get going.”
April nods, a little disappointed that their conversation had to end so abruptly. “It was nice to meet you,” she says.
The man offers her a warm smile, his eyes lingering on hers for a moment.
“It was a pleasure,” the man replies, offering her a slight bow of his head. “I hope your day is as bright as your smile.”
With that, he turns and strides out of the coffee shop, leaving April feeling both charmed and a bit bewildered. Who was that man? And what was with that enigmatic parting comment?
Shaking off the mystery, April retrieves her coffee and heads back upstairs, her mind now divided between her encounter with the mystery man and the upcoming meeting with the agency CEO.
As April steps off the elevator, Gabriella spots her immediately, her face lighting up with excitement.
“April, the CEO is here!” she exclaims. “He’s in the conference room already, waiting for you.”
April’s heart skips a beat. “Already?” she asks, suddenly feeling as though time has sped up.
Gabriella nods, her hand reaching for April’s arm. “Yes, he arrived early. He must be eager to meet you. Now, come on, we can’talk more on the way,” Gabriella finishes, leading April down the hallway towards the conference room. “Remember, be yourself, be confident, and let your beauty shine through. You’ve got this.”
April takes a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. “Thanks, Gabriella. I’ll do my best.”
They reach the conference room door, and Gabriella stops, giving April one last encouraging smile.
- Writer
