It's a fashion week, and today I am about to compete for one of the world's top designers, Stella McCartney.
Just a few months ago, I was on the stage at London Fashion Week.
It feels surreal. I took a deep, steadying breath, pushing past the tension and hyping myself up. I have done many of runway shows, I have got this in my bag, a commanding voice cut through the chaos, it's Stella McCartney, we have a problem, "she said."
Zoe: What is going on...?
The lead model is under the weather, and she's not in good shape to open the show.
Zoe: That's very bad.
I have seen you on the runway, your attitude, your walk, most of it, all the way you carry yourself, very spectacular.
I must say I trust you, which is why I want you to open for me. I was amused. Never in my dreams did I think I would get the chance to open for Stella McCartney.
Zoe: I will be honored, "I said, with a smile on my face. I can't believe I am in no mood to disappoint her. Pressure bears down on me as my heart pounds in my ears.
Don't let me down, Zoe.
If you make me proud, I will make you the opening lead for all my future shows.
Zoe: That would be a huge opportunity for my career.
Sure, your talent deserves to be celebrated. "I smiled widely," and Stella chuckled. Now we need to hurry.
Zoe: Tell me what to do.
opening isn't just a walk... the first impression you create will make us break the entire show! You need to look beyond perfect to ensure an unforgettable contest of the week.
Zoe: I understand perfectly.
She smiles as a stylist walks in with Stella's stunning collections for me to choose from. all the fashion icons are here, impress them, leave them stunned, "she uttered.
Zoe: Her words light a courage inside me as I nod eagerly, I choose one of the collections which has an elite vibe.
Am glad you approved, wait until everyone sees you!
You look amazing.
Stella and I peed outside, several big celebrities taking their seats on opposite sides of the runway.
Before we could say anything more, an announcement rings out: the show is about to start. Alright, everyone, it's show time! She turned to me and grabbed my shoulder.
Zoe you are about to open the London fashion week for me. "I nod," your determination is unwavering, "she said.
Zoe: Don't worry, Stella, I have got this. I step into the front of the lineup, the music swelling, signaling the opening of the model's entrance.
before I noticed I was striding into the spotlight-commanding, completely in control. The crowd watches as I glide down the runway.
I was really happy in that moment. I pose in front of the runway as camera flashes, then I begin walking back.
Zoe! You were incredible out there, thank you for the opportunity, "I said."
You were born for this, she replied. As the show was over, everyone was leaving backstage. I heard my phone ring.
it John, my boyfriend of one year, I just hope we don't end up fighting again. I answered the call.
Hey, how did the fashion week go? Did you wow them?
His tone eased my anxiety a little. Guess what, I opened the show for Stella McCartney, can you believe that?
John: Seriously? That's nice.
We talked about a few things, and the call ended. No matter how perfect it seems like I still feel something is wrong with my relationship with John.
Why do I feel this way? I will figure this feeling out later, probably just overthinking. It's been three days since I returned from the contest.
I am planning to go see John today.
In a few hours, I was ready to go see him. I joined a cab and then pulled up at John's house.
John: You are such a beauty.
Zoe: Awww, thank you.
Hey John, his phone rings and he holds up a finger, cutting me off as he answers. It's his third call since I got here.
I will call you back once I am less busy. Hello, hello? Sorry, you were about to say something? I sigh, sinking into my seat.
Well, it's the weekend, we want to party. And by the way, Emma is coming with her boyfriend, sorry I didn't tell you earlier.
John: That sounds interesting, no problem. But next time, try to inform me about any plan you make with your friend, what if I'm busy.
Zoe: I know, sorry dear.
I pulled out my phone and messaged Emma, Hey girl, are you ready for the party?
Emma: Of course, I am more than ready, she replied.
Zoe: Okay, dear, I am at John's place. Just pull over and let's go
In less than an hour, Emma and her boyfriend arrived, John dressed up as well, and we set off for the party. We finally pull up at the party.
As Emma and Zoe were jamming to the music, she suddenly bumped into somebody.
To my surprise, it's Bryan, memories crash over me like waves. His laugh, he's exciting, charming, and still impossible to forget.
My jaws clenched as I shoved the thoughts away, Emma watching me with a puzzled expression. I sigh and shake it off as I realize Emma is giving me a weird look.
Sorry, I paused for a second. This isn't a dream?
Bryan is standing right in front of me. He's grown more handsome, and he looks good.
Why am I thinking about this now?
Nice to meet you again, he said. His deep voice washes over me, reminding me of the past, every single moment with him. I snap back to reality, forcing my thoughts away, realizing John is with me.
Bryan smirks and offers John an easy handshake. My heart clenches as Bryan turns to me, his gaze simmering, the way he's staring at me, I remember that look.
I try to stay calm. Do you two know each other? Where would I even begin? I said to myself.
Bryan: No, I don't think so; she just looks familiar. We haven't met before, right?
Zoe: No, I don't think so.
Bryan quickly rushed off, but just before he disappeared, he glanced back at me, smirking, and something inside me couldn't handle it.
John held my arm, his expression laced with concern. Zoe, I know you. Is something wrong? Just tell me, please.
Zoe: Oh, John, it's nothing. I just bumped into him.
John exhales before finally nodding, if you say so. I felt bad as John just looked at me pensively for a moment.
Then he came closer to me, Zoe, "I love you," he said,
then why sometimes it doesn't seem like it, I asked myself.
I don't know John, I'm just confused, is this how love is supposed to be? Sometimes it seems like it's love, then sometimes it seems like it's not love.
he seem always busy with work and other stuffs we barely have time to communicate, at times we just end up fighting.