Chapter Twenty-Three

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Mariah Johnson | 27

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Mariah Johnson | 27

As I stood at the end of the runway, I could feel the energy pulsating through the room, amplified by the camera flashes and murmurs of the audience. But amidst the sea of faces, Aubrey's presence stood out to me. There he was, cool and composed, hidden behind his sleek Versace shades, yet his gaze pierced through the crowd, locking onto me with familiarity.

His smirk and thumbs up spoke volumes, a silent affirmation amidst the chaos of the fashion show. As his phone clicked away, capturing every angle of my stride, I couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence. In that moment, his subtle encouragement fueled my performance, elevating it to something more than just a walk down the runway.

I honestly didn't know Aubrey was gonna be here. He told me he wasn't going to be able to make it and once I heard him say that I was a little sad about it but seeing him here to watch me, appeared a big smile on my face.

Aubrey's little white lie added an unexpected thrill to the moment. With a knowing smile, I couldn't help but appreciate his playful deception. Chuckling softly to myself, I strutted back down the runway.

Basking in the applause, I graciously acknowledged the crowd's cheers with a smile, though my mind was already fixated on one thing: Aubrey. Despite the flurry of conversation around me, all I craved was the quiet moment awaiting us backstage, away from the spotlight. With each step, the anticipation of our reunion grew, fueling my eagerness to escape into his embrace.

With a sense of urgency, I relayed the description of Aubrey to the security guard stationed outside my dressing room, ensuring they were prepared for his arrival. Anticipation buzzed in the air as I eagerly awaited his presence, the thought of our reunion heightening the energy within the confines of the dressing room.

Struggling with the zipper at the back of my tight dress, I realized I needed assistance to take it off. With a sigh, I resigned myself to waiting for Aubrey's arrival to ask for his help. The anticipation of his presence only heightened as I eagerly awaited his arrival, knowing he would be there to assist me with ease.

Approaching the door, the sound of the knock echoed through the hallway, stirring curiosity within me. Opening it, there stood Aubrey, a smile playing on his lips, holding a lavish bouquet of flowers. Their vibrant colors illuminated the dimly lit corridor, instantly brightening my mood. Aubrey's thoughtful gesture left me speechless.

"These are for you," Aubrey's voice coolly lets out." He handed me the flowers closing the door back. "You were amazing out there for it to be your first run way."

I looked down at the flowers, vibrant colors illuminating the room made me smile. These flowers were really beautiful.

And it wasn't just one type of flower, it was a whole bunch of different ones.

"Oh shit! And I'm getting a close view of you, hold up." Aubrey snaps an off guard flick of me with the flowers in my hand. "Look at me!" He shows me the picture that he just took of me on his phone. "You should just let me take your pictures, real shit! You see how good this picture is?"

𝐂𝐀𝐍 𝐈 𝐋𝐄𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔?Where stories live. Discover now