Months later…..
I immersed myself in my modeling career, walking the runways of top designers and gracing the covers of top fashion magazines, taking on every modeling gig that came my way and attending high-end events.
My social media following grew exponentially, and I became one of the most sought-after models in the industry. But despite my outward success, I couldn't shake off the feeling of emptiness inside.
I thought that losing myself in my work would help me forget him, but it only seemed to fill the void temporarily. The pain still lingered, and I found myself wondering what could have been if he was honest with me from the start.
As months went by, I began to feel like I was just going through the motions. I was just a shell of my former self, and I knew I couldn't keep running from my emotions forever. But for now, I continued to put on a brave face, hiding behind my glamorous façade.
As I stood in front of the mirror, preparing for tonight's party, I couldn't help but think about the two men who had hurt me the most: Leon, who cheated on me twice and Dylan who had broken my trust.
I navigated the crowded room, exchanging air kisses and polite smiles with the other guests. I hated these kinds of parties, where everyone was pretending to be someone they weren't. But it was for my career, and I needed to make an appearance.
As I reached for a glass of champagne, I felt a hand on my arm.
I turned to see Leon, his eyes locked on mine with an intensity that made my skin crawl. Hey, he said, his voice low and smooth. Long time no see. I pulled my arm free, trying to keep my expression neutral.
Just busy, I said my voice cool. Haven't seen you in a while, he said. Save it Leon, I said, turning to walk away. But he caught up to me, his hand on my arm again. Wait, he said, can we talk? I shook my head, trying to keep my temper in check.
There's nothing to talk about Leon, I said. I have been thinking, he said. We should catch up sometime. I don't think that's necessary. Leon nodded, his eyes still cast downward.
Yeah, maybe you are right. The conversation was stilted, but we both knew we had to maintain a façade of civility in public. We chatted for a few more minutes, exchanging pleasantries and industry gossip, before I excused myself to mingle with other guests.
I grabbed my drink and continued mingling, determined to enjoy myself. I had spent too long letting my past define me, and tonight was about moving forward. I chatted with a few colleagues, laughing and joking like I didn't have a care in the world.
And for a few hours, I didn't. I let the music and the lights and the excitement of the party wash over me, and I felt alive.