The Power of Beauty

Chapter 3

I quickly finished my shower and reached for a towel. As I stepped out of the bathroom, the lingering fragrance of my conditioner filled the air.

Why am I feeling so nervous? I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. I opened my closet and selected a peach lacy gown with a slit on the right side, pairing it with pointed heels. I wasn’t too concerned about the heels—after all, as a model, almost anything looks good on me.

When was the last time I attended a party? It must have been around this time, when I wasn’t particularly busy.

I glanced at the mirror behind my cabinet and started touching up my makeup. I twirled in front of it, adjusting my waist and admiring the curves of my body.

I smiled at my reflection. The gown was backless, and I was grateful to Ms. Ocampo for the impeccable design. I felt fortunate to have such a beautiful face—my eyes, which shimmer in the light, and my small pointed nose that gives me a doll-like appearance. I applied red lipstick and traced my fingers along my collarbone.

“Sweetie,” a familiar voice called. I sighed in frustration. I disliked being disturbed, but Jerome was only trying to wake me up because we were running late.

“I’m coming.” I quickly added my silver earrings and a delicate pendant that complemented my outfit without being too flashy. I grabbed my purse and gift, then left the room. Jerome gave me an exasperated look as he glanced at the clock above my TV.

“Let’s go,” he said, his irritation clear.

“What?” I asked, confused. He exited the room, and I followed. His annoyance was palpable. If only he hadn’t been so fussy, he could have left earlier. I sat next to him in the car.

“Why are you so quiet?” I asked. We were almost at our destination, but he remained silent. I noticed him clenching his jaw while driving. What’s wrong with him?

“You look like you’re headed to a fashion show. Just a reminder, we’re going to a bar and a birthday party, not a runway for you to flaunt your body!” he said, his tone sharp. Excuse me? What’s wrong with my body? This is fashion.

“At least it suits me,” I said, shrugging as I searched for my lipstick.

“I know it suits you, but it’s too revealing. Look at your back.” His frustration was evident as his gaze became piercing. He even poked my back slightly.

“Stop it, Jerome. You’re overreacting. You’re my cousin for goodness’ sake! Stop being so possessive.” It was happening again. He acted as if something terrible would happen. Of course, I wouldn’t let that happen, knowing he was there to look out for me.

I rolled my eyes and got out of the car.

The noise from the bar grew louder, accompanied by the scent of drinks and food.

Jerome guided me by the waist as we entered. I allowed him to lead, smiling at the people we passed.

“Yo, Myrthle, you look stunning as always,” Clarence said, kissing my cheeks. I smiled back.

“Am I?” I asked, feigning modesty, though I knew I looked good.

“You definitely are. Thanks for coming to my birthday.” Clarence beamed as his long-time girlfriend joined him, whispering something that made him smile even wider. He nodded at me before turning back to greet others. I scanned the bar. It wasn’t extravagant—just a gathering of colleagues, as per Clarence’s wishes.

“This is my gift for you, Clarence,” I said, handing it to him. He looked pleasantly surprised.

“Thank you, Myrthle.” His gaze then shifted to Jerome, who was still holding my waist.

“Looks like you’re just here to be Myrthle’s bodyguard,” Clarence teased. He knew Jerome’s overprotective nature well, likely due to my mother’s trust in him. It didn’t bother me much, as long as he respected my space.

“It’s necessary. Happy birthday, man. You’re getting old.” I shook my head at their banter. Despite Clarence’s age, he retained his charm.

After a few more exchanges of pleasantries, we took our seats, and the celebration began.

I struggled to relax amidst the noise and social demands. My neck and jaw ached from forced smiles. I was exhausted and wished I could go to sleep.

At least Jerome was here with me. I’m not a sociable person and dislike talking to strangers—except for my fans, of course. Maybe I’m just shy.

Laughter and music filled the air, growing louder as people danced and celebrated.

“Hi, Myrthle.” I jumped in my seat, placing my hand on my chest at the sudden appearance of someone behind me. People always seem to appear out of nowhere when they want to. I turned around and blushed when I saw Ivan. I recognized his voice immediately.

“Uh, hi,” I said, unsure of what to say. This was the first time he had approached me. Though I’m not interested in relationships, I still have feelings. I knew of Ivan from before; he was known for his sociability and cheerful demeanor, making him well-liked in modeling circles.

“I’m Ivan Regala,” he said, extending his hand for a handshake. I took it, puzzled by his approach.

“Uh, how do you know me?” The awkwardness in my voice made him chuckle. His laughter, accompanied by his dimples, made him even more attractive.

“Who wouldn’t know someone as stunning as you?” Is he flirting with me? I nodded, not sure how to respond.

“Maybe you’re the one who doesn’t know me.” He chuckled, taking a sip of his wine. I frowned.

“No, I know you too.” I fell silent, unsure of what to say next. I was nervous, especially with the lively party around us.

I glanced around for Jerome but couldn’t spot him. I needed to use the restroom.

“Uh, excuse me for a moment.” I decided to find the restroom to escape the awkward conversation.

“Why? Where are you going?” He looked at me, his gaze lingering on my outfit.

“I’m just going to the restroom. Thanks.” His gaze returned to mine, and his smile faded.

“Oh, sure.” He nodded, and I stood up, making my way through the crowd. I had to squeeze past people dancing near the restroom entrance.

As I approached the door, someone grabbed me by the waist and pulled me into a dark corner near the exit. I was startled and tried to turn around, but the person had me facing away.

“What the hell?!” I exclaimed, trying to free myself. I slapped his hands and attempted to pry his fingers off, but he was too strong. The smell of cigarettes overwhelmed me, making me cough. Where was Jerome? I was terrified!

“Myrthle.” I froze at the sound of my name. How did he know me? Was he one of my obsessed stalkers? Had Bailey sent him for revenge? Panic surged through me as I struggled against his grip. His voice was unfamiliar, and I couldn’t see his face in the darkness.

“W-who are you?” I asked, my voice trembling. I was afraid of what I might discover.

“You don’t know me yet,” he said, his deep voice sending shivers down my spine.

“Then tell me who you are!” I shouted, hoping someone would come to my aid.

“Are you one of my obsessed stalkers? Did Bailey send you here?” My heart pounded with fear.

“Who is Bailey?” He tightened his hold on my waist, one hand resting on my left side and rubbing it back and forth.

“Don’t touch me! Let me go!” I was increasingly frightened and uncomfortable. This was the first time I felt this way, and I didn’t like it. It was unsettling.

“Tell me who Bailey is first.” His anger was palpable as he spoke the name. I suspected he didn’t know Bailey, and this guy was just a random creep.

“Why should I tell you? I don’t talk to strangers. Let me go before I call Jerome!” I was desperate, feeling trapped with the bar’s noise drowning out any chance of being heard.

“First Bailey, now Jerome. You’re quite the playgirl. I thought you were innocent.” His words stunned me, and I felt a surge of anger. I decided to take action, as I’d seen in movies. I stomped on his foot, causing him to curse. As he tried to reach for me, I kicked him in the groin with my heels and bolted.

“f**k you, bastard!” I ran as fast as I could, relieved to escape him. He deserved it! How dare he judge me without knowing who I am?

I finally returned to my seat, finding Ivan still waiting, his concern evident.

“What happened? You look scared.” He took my hand and looked into my eyes.

“W-wait.” I glanced at a nearby table with a broken glass and saw the man I had escaped walking away, fists clenched. I frowned.

“Good to know. I was worried something happened.” I smiled, trying to assure him that I was fine.