Before The Night Ends

"Next angle! Lean more to the left, Brazeal! Perfect! You look stunning there!" the photographer praised my poses.

I changed to a slightly see-through brown maxi dress and did a few more poses in it. Then the stylist decided to dress me in a floral-themed outfit for more options. Life as a supermodel here in Daty Magazines is full of surprises, and I'm always up for it. Daty Magazines feature famous local fashion brands. I usually model for the front covers of their magazine issues, which they also release abroad.

As one of their supermodels, my daily schedule is usually hectic. It's normal to see it packed with back-to-back shoots, fittings, and interviews from 8 in the morning to 9 or 10 in the evening. Getting home late and dead tired is not new to me anymore. But despite these, I'm always thankful to be booked and busy. The fashion industry can be very unpredictable and tough, I'm glad that I get to have these opportunities despite my condition.

"Okay, cut! That's a wrap! Good job, Brazeal. Come back tomorrow for the short interview before the mag's release next week, alright?" Mr. Cortez told me.

"Yes, Mr. Cortez." I answered with a smile. Shane, my personal assistant, escorted me to the dressing room. She gave me a long sleeve dress and a pair of strap heels to change into. Even though you're done with the shoot, you and your outfit still have to look good. The paparazzi will follow you all the time, and as a supermodel, you cannot afford to have an ugly photo of you taken. Your face, body, and fashion sense are part of your main assets in this industry.

Shane and I went straight to my Subaru van when we got out of the building. My driver started driving as soon as we all got inside. Shane instructed him to head to my condominium. This day is so tiring that I don't even have the strength to speak anymore, I just want to go home and lie in bed.

I bid my goodbye to Shane and the driver when we arrived in front of my condominium building. The driver will take Shane home, then he'll drive himself home. Shane doesn't stay with me because I want my own space after such a hectic day. I instructed the driver to bring the van to his house so he won't have to commute to my condo building everyday, he's also free to use the van whenever I don't have a schedule (which is a rare instance).

As soon as the door lock clicked, I practically sprinted to the shower. I remembered I still have emails to check while I was in the elevator going to my unit floor. I took a quick shower and put myself in a comfy pair of satin sleeping wear. My laptop was already placed on my working table because I was also checking emails before I left for work today.

I stared at my reflection in the black screen as it loaded. I do look beautiful, but contrary to popular belief, I'm still single at my age of 27. The paparazzi loves to make up stories about me being in a relationship. It's annoying, but sometimes I start to wish it was true. It'd be lovely to have someone with me in this lonely life.

It's not like I'm the no-boyfriend-since-birth type. I had a few during my teen years up to my twenties, but all of them ended for the same reason: They loved me because of my profile and money, not because of who I am. So when I start to demand for the love I actually deserve, they'll start to distance themselves and go MIA. We'll try to talk it out, but in the end they still choose to leave. I sighed as the screen finally lit up.

I opened my email inbox and checked the messages one by one. Some of them were journalists asking for an interview, modeling offers, fashion brand endorsement offers, then there were also requests for social media promotions from non-fashion brands. These should be received by my manager because she's the one who approves them, but fortunately, she's cool and kind enough to let me choose which projects and offers I actually want to take. But I still forward the emails to her to let her know or to get a second opinion. As I was scrolling through my inbox, I suddenly remembered the app Shane suggested earlier. It was a dating app. She said that's where she met Philip, her long-time boyfriend. They're going to celebrate their third anniversary this year and they're also planning to get married soon.

While the app was downloading, I went to the fridge to get a snack. It was a strawberry yoghurt and a glass of water. I can't eat food that are high in carbs to maintain my figure. The app was already installed when I got back to the table. I opened it and created an account. I used my nickname 'Binay' to conceal my identity. Only close friends call me that name.

"Mate, nice app and graphics. I hope I'll find my true love here," I said with a chuckle. I know that sounds crazy, but I'll never know if I never try.

The app's theme color is blue and wolf designs are all over it, that's probably why it's called "Mate." I chose a profile picture where my back is facing. I can't risk people in this app knowing my real identity.

I started searching for anyone I can talk to. It wasn't long before I found someone who looked interesting. Both of our profile pictures were facing back. He's probably hiding something too, I thought to myself. I sent him a 'hi' and waited for a reply. His username says "Poseidon_18," guess he's into Greek mythology.

I ate a spoonful of yoghurt as I waited for his reply. I pouted when I was already at my third spoon but he hasn't replied yet. My excitement's starting to fade but I didn't want to search for a new person. This app guarantees that users can meet decent potential partners through it. And I think that's true because it costs 200 USD per month and only allows 1 week of free trial!

Poseidon_18 is taking longer than I expected. His profile says he's online, though. I opened Facebook on another tab. I was about to start scrolling when the Mate app dinged and a 'hello' popped up. I immediately focused on my laptop to compose a reply.

"How are you? Are you a Filipino?" I said as I typed the words. He replied quickly this time and his response made me smile.

Poseidon_18: Yes, I am. A half specifically. Where are you from? I live in Parañaque. How old are you by the way?

I smiled at his way of typing. It looks so clean, it's as if he has life put together. I wonder what it's like to be his girlfriend.

"I live near, just within Metro Manila. I am also a Filipino, only 27 hehe. Are you single?" I typed. I have this weird habit of saying what I'm typing out loud. I don't know, it feels like I'm actually talking to the other person this way.

Poseidon_18: Typing...

I waited for his reply. He seems interested now. I'm glad we're interested in each other.

"Yeah, I am single for a couple of years now. I am already 30 but that's a good age gap for us hahaha. Do you mind if I ask your name?" I read his reply.

I thought about his question for a solid minute. He seems like a good man, just my type. But I can't risk my real identity. Not when I'm at the peak of my career in the industry. I chose to give him my nickname instead.

Binay: You can call me Binay. I'm sorry, I can't give you my name hehe.

I waited for his reply, but it's taking long once again. He's probably doing something at the moment. Or maybe he's not interested anymore because I didn't give him my name. I pouted in front of my screen.

The drowsiness was starting to kick in. I had a long day at work and it surely drained the life out of me. As much as I wanted to continue talking to him, I need to have my beauty rest now so I turned my laptop off. I guess I'll just talk to him tomorrow, I hope.

I put on my sleeping mask. It helps keep my skin flawless like that Korean glass skin trend. I also drank a glass of water because staying hydrated is the best way to have a glowing, healthy skin. No to sodas and juices because they might affect my metabolism.

I lie in my bed and turn down the air conditioning. The room gets too cold during dawn, which leaves me shaking, and I don't like that. I yawned as I put cucumber slices on my eyes.

"Time to rest~" I whispered to myself before finally letting sleep take me.

"You look really stunning, Madam Brazeal," Shane praised me with a smile.

"Really? How I wish others saw me that way, too. I'm not that confident when it comes to my beauty. I'm sick, Shane. You know that."

"Madam, you're still beautiful regardless! Look at me, I don't have any illness but you still look more beautiful than me! Your illness is not a hindrance, madam," Shane's remark made me laugh. I stood from my seat and looked into the mirror. I smiled at my reflection, I look beautiful indeed. I just need to have more faith in myself.

I'm wearing an above-the-knee floral truffles dress paired with strap heels from today's sponsor brand. Its sleeves reach my elbow, which I find cute. We're set for an interview today. Other models wore short and sexy dresses just as I expected, that's why I personally chose this cute one to separate myself.

"Let's go, ma'am. They told me the CEO of this company wants to talk to you after the interview," Shane leaned closer to my ear then looked left and right. "From what I heard, he's single! And he's just thirty! Right up your alley!" she whispered excitedly. I chuckled then shook my head. "Even if I did like him, I'm sure he won't like me back, Shane."

She rolled her eyes at me, "Oh well, we'll see about that," she smirked before opening the door to exit the studio. I just shook my head once again. Her confidence in me baffles me at times. Me catching a CEO's attention? As if.

We met other supermodels who were just outside the studio. A few of them greeted me and smiled. I'm aware that some of them don't like me, a model friend told me. I just moved closer to Shane and continued walking. I didn't want to do small talks with them. A woman's voice suddenly called my name from the crowd.

"Brazeal! Nice to see you again!" I turned around to see Clouie Felipe. She's the model friend I was talking about and my only best friend in the modeling industry. If it weren't for her, I'd be clueless of the bashing that's been happening behind my back.

I hugged Clouie and gave her a big smile. It was a relief to see her today. "Nice to see you too, Clouie. I missed you!"

"Look at Hannah, she's so two-faced! She keeps on smiling our way but stabs us when we're not looking. Don't she dare talk bad about you or else I'll kill her," Clouie said annoyed and I just laughed.

I looked at the back to see Hannah. She rolled her eyes at me because Clouie's not looking. Her sister, Andrea, gave me a smug look as if she was mocking my presence. It's unbelievabl that they're supermodels with their childish behaviors.

"Brazeal Inayica Viglianco, Clouie Felipe, Hannah Leigh, Andrea Leigh, and Amber Soledad! We'll start the interview now!" Director John shouted. We sat in our designated seats, good thing Clouie's next to me.

The theme song of "Tonight with Georgina Rodriguez" started playing and she introduced herself. The camera panned to each of us. We sported a kind smile and waved like the supermodels that we are. When it was my turn to get asked by Ms. Georgina Rodriguez I saw Andrea give me an annoyed look. I just ignored her and focused on the question.

"So Brazeal, you're the top model of the Philippines now! How does it feel to have back-to-back projects and, on top of that, a huge net worth? I'm thrilled to know!" Ms. Georgina asked with genuine excitement.

"I honestly feel ecstatic about it, Ms. Georgina. But above all, I feel grateful to everyone who loves and supports me. I wouldn't achieve my success without them, They motivate me to be better and do better in my career, and I also hope I motivate them to do better in their lives," I answered with a smile.

"What an answer, Brazeal! I won't be surprised if the next time I interview you, you're already a Miss Universe candidate!" Clouie and I chuckled at Ms. Georgina's remark before she moved to the next model.

We watched Hannah and Andrea get interviewed. Clouie kept on whispering to me that the sisters are all talk and too proud. Thank God the cameras weren't facing our way, Clouie's so talkative! Only Amber was quiet among the five of us. She likes to be quiet most of the time so it wasn't really a surprise.

The five of us went straight to the CEO's office after the interview. So the CEO wanted to talk to all of us. I thought Shane was only pertaining to me when she mentioned it earlier. I shook my head. I'm such an embarrassment!

The staff informed us that we were called so the CEO can choose who'll model for AceLand, the company's newly built island. Only one among us will be chosen which felt nerve wracking for some reason. I do hope Clouie gets chosen, though. She deserves this big break more than anyone else! She's been working real hard these past months.

When we entered the office, I was in awe at its interior design. It looks huge and sleek! The chandeliers looked absolutely mesmerizing. As I moved my gaze down, I saw a man in suit standing at the far end of the room. His back was facing us so I couldn't see his face, but from his posture and aura I could tell that he looks heavenly fine.

"Mr. Lenegham, the supermodels are here. Here are there profiles," the woman, who I guess is his secretary, said as she handed him a folder. The man named Mr. Lenegham turned around and I swear I almost dropped my jaw. He looks strikingly handsome! He's so tall. I'm probably just up until his shoulder. Those pair of blue eyes are matched with a set of thick brows. He also has jet black hair and a sharp, pointed nose.

I slightly averted my gaze when his eyes met mine. God I hope he didn't catch me staring, I don't want to make a bad first impression! I focused on the view outside the floor to ceiling window instead. The cityscape from this angle is fascinating. Mr. Lenegham's lucky to see this view everyday. I wish I have this kind of view in my condominium unit too.

I noticed Mr. Lenegham take a quick look at all of us before giving a nod. He sat on his swivel chair and I can't help but stare at him. He looks perfect even when sitting down, it's unbelievable. He called us one by one and made us turn around. I was the last one he called and he looked at me longer than he did with the others. It was probably because of my condition. He probably thinks I look weird. Mr. Lenegham asked me a few questions then stared a bit more. I'm not quite sure what those stares meant, but they surely weren't predatory, he's must be thinking of who to choose.

"Have you chosen someone already, sir?" the secretary asked.

"Yes, I like Ms. Hannah Leigh but her features are too sharp. I'm choosing Ms. Brazeal Viglianco to be AceLand's model," Mr. Lenegham answered.

My mouth agape from what he said. Why did he choose me? These four are far more beautiful than I am! I snapped out of my trance when Mr. Lenegham spoke again, "She looks timid, simple, a bit conservative, and beautiful. She'll perfectly embody the image I want our island to have: peacefulness and serenity."

"This is not happening!"

I turned my head to Hannah who suddenly shouted. The others also turned to look at her with a surprised face. Andrea tried to calm her down.

"Sis, calm down. Your actions will damage us!" Andrea whispered to her sister.

"You chose that ugly face and not me? I am more beautiful than her! She's just too white that's why she looks pretty!" Hannah shouted.

I looked down because I was embarrassed. What she said pierced through me. I thought I was already used to criticisms about my appearance, but I guess I was wrong. It still hurts when others point it out. I've been judged since I was young for my sickness. They call me "whitewashed" for having such a pale skin color caused by albinism. If it weren't for makeup, I'd always look dead during shoots.

"You can't even compare yourself to her, Ms. Hannah. She's simple and beautiful, very natural. Not like you who had gone under the knife. Get yourself out of here before I have the security drag you out. Your attitude reeks." Mr. Lenegham angrily said.

Hannah left the room fuming mad and Andrea followed her suit. Clouie told me she'll leave first and Amber has already left without notice.

"Ms. Viglianco," Mr. Lenegham called me.

"Y-Yes, sir?"

"Come with me," he said and took me with him.

"Are you sure about this, Mr. Lenegham? I have to leave for the shoot the day after tomorrow? I-I haven't even informed my manager yet and the other projects I have lined up. I still have a lot of things to settle. Can't we reschedule to next week at le–"

"Ms. Viglianco, are you going to take my offer or not? If it's not enough, I will make it 10 million. We have to rush the island's opening that's why we need you to model as soon as possible. If you're not up for it then I'll just look for another one," Mr. Lenegham cut me off.

I sighed in frustration and bit my lip. I thought for a minute. 10 million... his offer is no joke! And he said he'll give it to me in cash. Cash! I only have two projects this month and they are long commitments. But with the benefits Mr. Lenegham offered me, I guess it won't be hard for my manager to work things out with the heads of those projects. I have to visit my doctor first, though. I've been noticing these red patches on my skin that turn into slightly painful bruises recently. I've been under the sun for too long these past few days and that's probably causing them. I know I should avoid sun exposure, but outdoor shoots are inevitable these days. Thankfully creams still solve my problem.

"I agree to it, sir. How long will we stay there and where? Will there be an airconditioned room?" I asked.

"Good. It won't take a month. Probably three weeks max. Your food, accommodation, everything is free. There's also a tour if you want. The hotel you'll be staying in has airconditioned rooms. You can choose whichever room you want." He sternly said. The seriousness in his voice made me think I demanded too much. I winced at the thought.

I just gave him a nod and looked back at the overlooking view. We're currently in the balcony because he said he wanted to talk privately. His gazes are starting to intimidate me. When he looks at you, it pierces deep. As if you'd fall into his striking pair of blue eyes.

"Okay, thank you, Mr. Lenegham. I promise to do my best for this project." I said with a smile when I turned to face him again.

"Good, I have high expectations on you, Ms. Viglianco. Do your job well. I'll tell my sercretary to give you the flight instructions," he explained.

I nodded then we shook hands. I thanked the heavens that my mouth didn't go agape once again. His palms were soft, I didn't expect them to be that soft. "You can let go of my hand now, Ms. Viglianco," Mr. Lenegham said. I immediately released his hand. God, I'm so embarrassing!

"Cute," I heard him whisper before leaving me standing here.

I felt my cheeks heat up because of what he said. I feel like I'm going to explode from the embarrassment. Why am I acting like a teenage girl in front of her crush? Am I crushing on Mr. Lenegham?!

____________

"Madam, let's go. Mr. Lenegham's already waiting at the airport," Shane informed me.

"I'll just turn this off," I replied while closing the tabs I opened and hitting shut down on my laptop.

Before I closed the tabs, I made sure to say goodbye to Poseidon_18 and inform him that I'll be gone for weeks because I'll work on an island. He said he also has a business matter to settle. I think I'm starting to like Poseidon_18. I don't know if it's because of his neat way of typing, the same interests we share, or because he's mysterious for me. But all I know is, when I think about it, the two of us would make a great pair. Thanks to Mate App I got to know someone like Poseidon.

Him and I have been talking nonstop since yesterday. The more I know him, the more I'm interested. His likes and hobbies are turning me on. He said he's bookworm, he mostly reads self-help and business books. He surfs and swims. He also loves the nature, which I find attractive.

I looked at myself in the mirror before heading out. I know I always look beautiful, but for some reason I wanted to be extra beautiful and presentable in front of Mr. Lenegham. But I guess that's because he's my boss. Right, that's the reason.

I smiled at myself. I'm wearing a pair of leggings and a white boxed cropped top. I tied the windbreaker jacket to my waist. The airplane temperature gets too cold for my liking that's why I brought a jacket.

I made sure to wear the sunglasses I keep on forgetting to wear. It's been three nights that I reminded myself before going to sleep that I'll wear it the next day, but voila, I just keep on forgetting. My hair is braided for a simple and clean look. I didn't put makeup on my brows because Shane told me it's better to look natural, and so I just applied a compact face powder and a cheek and lip tint for color. I was about to leave the room when Shane called me. I turned atound with a smile to ask why.

"Madam, I think you're forgetting something. You're favorite bracelet! The one you always wear when there's no photoshoot and you're just traveling," Shane reminded me. I immediately took my Rastaclat bracelet from its box. Its a shoe string bracelet. I love its color combination of pink, violet, blue, and white. The theme is galaxy and it lights up at night! I prefer this because it's pretty and doesn't easily break like beaded bracelets. I wore the bracelet before leaving the unit with Shane.

She will only send me to the airport. Although she's my personal assistant, the island's quite far from here and I don't want her to be far away from her boyfriend so I told her I could handle it. I've got everything I need and I made sure to visit my doctor before going on this trip so I think I'll be good without Shane for the next weeks. I hope so.

We rode the van and headed to the airport. Thank heavens it was a smooth drive. I thought I arrived at the airport on time, but then I looked at the time and 2 minutes had passed from the agreed time. I'm late!

I stepped out of the car as soon as we arrived. I practically ran to Mr. Lenegham's location and forgot about walking. I hope he doesn't scold me!

We'll ride a private airplane today to avoid other passengers. When I got to where the plane was, I saw Mr. Lenegham talking to a staff near the stairs to its entrance. He seemed annoyed when I got closer to their location. He stared at me like he wants to eat me alive for being minutes late

I bowed my head. "I-I apologize, Mr. Lenegham. Th-this will be the last time this happens..." I slowly said.

"I don't accept apologies for being late, Ms. Viglianco. I'll deduct 1 million from your salary. Get on the plane or we'll be late for the welcoming ceremony at AceLand." There wasn't any bit of consideration when he said those words. I felt shivers down my spine. I can't believe I'll ride a private plane with this guy. W-what if I don't make it out alive and die of heart attack? God I hope not!

I just gave him a nod and glanced at Shane who was giving my suitcases to the cabin crews. She gave me a quick thumbs up and smile before I boarded the plane. I sat down on a seat near the window. I love sightseeing whenever I travel by plane. The view from above is amazing!

We got ready for take-off and I fastened my seatbelt on. I tried focusing on the magnificent view outside the window, but my tears just fell on their own accord as soon as we were on air. I know it was my fault for being late, but it's not like it was an hour, it was just a few minutes! I'm not used to being scolded by anyone. I always make sure to do my best in every photoshoot that's why the staff are always satisfied with my performance. I've been five minutes late to some photoshoots before but I didn't get scolded like earlier. That Lenegham guy is so grumpy!

I tried to muffle my sobs but the tears just won't stop. Why am I so upset about it? It was also my fault! I didn't want to worry the staff inside the plane so I detached my seatbelt and went to the comfort room as fast as I could. I was about to open the cubicle door when someone suddenly grabbed my arm. I gasped before turning around to see that it was Mr. Lenegham. What is he doing here? Of all times!

He leaned my back against the cubicle wall and placed his right hand on the side of my head. His left hand wiped my tears. My eyes widened when I felt his fingers in contact with my cheek.

"Hey, why are you crying, Ms. Viglianco? Talk to me," he said worriedly. He held my chin and motioned it upwards. I gulped and avoided his gaze. "I-it's nothing, sir."

"What do you mean nothing? Is it because I scolded you earlier?" he probed and I remained silent. I'm not good at lying, but I don't want to tell him that he's right either. It's silly of me to cry when it was my lapse in the first place.

Mr. Lenegham cupped my face before staring intently at me with his blue eyes, "I'm sorry, Brazeal."

I stood there dumbfounded. W-was it really the ill-tempered Mr. Lenegham who said that? And on top of that, h-he cupped my cheeks! What kind of dream is this?!