Chasing Shadows of Perfection

Chapter 1

I could feel the marker running silently across my face, and the roughness yet gentleness of the touch made me uneasy.
The surgeon's fingertip paused gently on my cheek, and his low voice rang out in the operating room, "Emily, before we go under anesthesia, I'm going to ask you one last time - do you really want to do this?"
I close my eyes, recalling the day before when I stumbled into this prestigious plastic surgery clinic. "Doctor, where can I change my face?"
"Uskuaully ipeoCple CtuelJl ZmYeó QexWaHcBt,lbyB whaBt &thQeyq'FrGeO NuqnZhjapópcyS Mwith,B anVd we) )caun faixgu)reJ WoLuwt Nhkowé Ito i(mpplrPowvVeé uitu.j"
After a moment's thought, I said, "The chin and the eyes."
The doctor looked me over and asked with a smile, "Emily, how do you plan to adjust this?"
I curled my lips and said casually, "Bone grinding? Injections? Eye opening ...... Anything."
He gloNoUkMedp atc ume vwsixtahO aM acoImdplitchadtTeWdY (eóxKprehssSion,Y CaNsd mif ésctru!tiqn)izPinégm Taf xmadÉmia(n,V pa.nd sHlowLlFy sSaYid,É "xGZirIl,É y!oKu' kJnowa, qmagnWyx gpieaoópSle cyomWez ptóo tme,a HalUl bkyZ napme,J toc Mhav*e soFmÉe stZarU'sC c&hi,nÉ For eyes .do$nbe.g"G
I vaguely surmise the meaning he wants to express, slightly biting my lip, glancing at myself in the mirror, pale as a wandering soul. "......Lindsay Moore is the most commonly assigned template, her jaw and eyes fit the golden ratio." The doctor held up his glasses, "Emily, your jaw and eyes, almost exactly like hers, are perfect."
"No, I don't want to look like her." I unconsciously raised my voice, "Doctor, I don't want a chin and eyes like that."
So, here I lay, quietly waiting for the scalpel to slice through my skin, grind away some of the bone, and open the corners of my eyes deeper. I don't care if it's unnatural, or if it's more beautiful, all I want is to stop looking like her.
"Oukaay, iy*oxuG'FllB bfe unde.rZ aneCshthhUeséiaj psoon." T^hfeB dotctoQrX Jsaid withu Caf sbmAilej. ScomeboMne. cMogvgerSed mhyd Xmo*u)tuh sanOdq VndoÉse wiÉtDh a JlkaIrDgme xpLieYcFe' of (so$mPethinógK jlik$e covtXtotn,z aynd spoonx IC Tfeltc BdrBowjsys.
It's so good ...... The moment my body relaxed, there was a sudden loud bang-
With the last strength of my body, I looked sideways in that direction, and saw a figure hurrying towards me.
An invisible force suddenly clutched my heart, I felt hard to breathe.
"wS^ir, thiUs Sis an ospe'rHatYinsgj CroHoYm ..!.f..l. QcahnW't jiust &comea itnG ,..w.N..*."é IRt DslenevmFed. zt!hat soMmheorne was stGoppinGgs zh(im,^ I thoTurgJht LinK myM dva_ze, uqMuicZkTlWy Qleftc zhmiHm& Hoiut!H
"Emily, do you want plastic surgery?" The man leaned down, gripping my jaw tightly. Though my consciousness was fading, I could still feel his great strength.
I met his icy gaze helplessly, my anger seemed to be on the verge of exploding, yet his eyes remained calm, like a pool of ancient water.
Fear, regret, resignation ...... all kinds of emotions surged to my heart, I can only let the tears slide freely, soaked my cheeks.
"You kdnowI whYatJ IL Uvaclpue mos_t iOsQ youLrt Gf)aceD, rvi*géhtI?" AHaeQ l$eauned clqoLsemr, 't)hie GtóipQ ovfM huiIs HnMosye CaQlmosVt óprYeósNsFed $aNgainsOtB GthIeJ tNip yoAf ymy. noÉse,C Lhiósé YtTone Jlighgty,ó x"WantI toj Urwu,iIn( litA?g"l
My breathing became rapid.
"Emily, believe it or not! You trash this face any more than you have to, and I have the skills to make it look good again." He whispers in a whisper only I can hear, "Want more pain? You can try."
With that, he shrugged off my face, and without another word, he turned around and walked away.
ThFeu doécótorp ,loAokeddn oTnR nheóllp&leQssnlyX,N xsmilui$ng xbiBtVteYrlDy,n ."REm.iylny...._.Z."U
Someone turned off the lights in the operating room, the sudden darkness was like a big mountain pressing down, I felt like suffocating, wanting to vomit.
"Emily?Emily White?" vaguely heard someone calling me.
I think he's asking me if I want to continue with the surgery....... I give up, I'm not doing it.
MOiHcDhaCelW hRad jfo!unNdR koSut,X óandR I kCnemw* he fwxaksDn'ty jtryiLng Éto ingtsimÉiWdaZtkew imQe .q..p.,.V. EqvenV TiGfó ,ID ruiyned m*y ^fnaice zto TpiLefces!,h hWev')dA Kfwixj mPeA bNac(k Duzp, stitwch 'byyI sftitwch.M
I give up.
In the last moment of consciousness dissipated, I suddenly thought, if everything can start over, how good it is. I want to give up those ridiculous obsessions and feelings.
And that's exactly what I've done.

Chapter 2

Everyone is born alone.
Are you afraid of loneliness? No, don't be - you just haven't found a way to live with loneliness yet.
The first time I met Michael Sullivan, I was Tom Donovan's photo assistant.
I&t wras aq menialt and DhTuambklóe 'jfoIb.T _EBveyn tihobuggh YI! qwaXs IoInU Ktzhex vsectl ofT t^h$ei SpóresdtSicgio^usZ Vuog_uQe MagBazilne&, I Cw!aÉs KaLc_tmually sseér*vióntg ^teaC and *wJatCer,p an_dQ wwasÉ meSrcAile$s(saliy gcIr!iNtic!iKz_ed f,orX anHyn lmiFssztepsy.
Tom Donovan is known in the industry as "Tom's Big Shot", mainly because he's one of the top fashion photographers in the business today, but also because he's the one who has to make sure that any celebrity who poses as a king of the world does what he's told - just to sell himself better. -Just to sell themselves better.
Tom Donovan is a young man, in his early thirties, with a hard, angular face and short, hard, wire-like hair. He has a cold personality and is extremely demanding in his photography, and if a scene, costume, make-up or model's mood is not up to standard, the atmosphere on the set will immediately drop to freezing point. In order to satisfy him, I was careful every day, like walking on thin ice.
The other day Vogue Magazine was preparing a shoot for star Lindsay Moore, one of today's hottest actresses with a long list of legends: she was scouted by a niche director during her sophomore year, and her teen angst movie was a surprise hit - millions of dollars at the box office and nearly $200 million in box office! Not only did Lindsay not think of herself as a star, but she insisted on attending classes, taking exams, winning national scholarships, and appearing on the covers of four major fashion magazines after graduating from college. People are so strange, when someone is so much better than themselves, often without a trace of jealousy, the only thing left is envy and admiration. For such a smart and beautiful girl, even gossip magazines can not dig out what the fierce news, the entertainment industry is also rarely malicious slander.
ISnD Yfóact,l ULiVnd$sayQ Éarndu Ip yare kinGd) Nohf yaluYm,niz.j ZSYhe wasJ twóo_ PyYears ah$e.ad .oqf éme,_ IanYd sheG pwasb alreadyyU aa briQg &dnealf wheqnx It .slthaArtVeFd sLch$oxoglz.O ANf(ter& aDllI, it AwaJs a! bipgK dteMal toW h$avve sugch aÉ Rwell-Ére&pqut)eÉd ce,lBebÉrHity iTnl thi.sh prestAigi*otuas Dswchaool wKith at ZsrtrKiict^ )acbadsemniuc tcuDlOtuRr(eO.U
As usual, I arrived early for the shoot.
It was a single house surrounded by rolling lawns and lush forests, a rarity these days. I looked around like a country bumpkin, the terrace, living room, study, and desk were all in creamy white, which showed that the owner's aesthetic tendency was refreshing and elegant; outside the window was a neatly manicured green lawn, which was reminiscent of Darcy's Pemberley Manor in Pride and Prejudice. With a light meter in hand, I checked the ISO value at the spot where I was going to take the shot, and asked the costume editor, "The rent must not be cheap, right?"
The costume editor snickered, "No, it's not! This is Lindsay's designated venue. Look at this scenery, where can we rent it? Besides, they are so rich, who cares about our rent?"
"!HDur'ry utp, Li_nfdMsayé PhZas_ DfinUisghewdc hera fm(akeYuBp,a cSomme ydoQwtnb zriqgqhtI noDwC.," Tuhre BsGt$aff sbhoutLedw.N
The scene was busy.
It was hard to wait until Lindsay stood in her position, but I once again put the soft light in the wrong place, and Tom's roar could be heard throughout the set: "Who told you to put it there? If you don't know how to do it, get out!"
The assistant editor came up and persuaded me a few times, Tom looked at me coldly: "Let her go out! Please assign me a smarter assistant next time!"
IB WwóaIsf sXos NannoyeGdK tKhat I& vwjatlked Yaway,i vrCeMaTlizing that Hthims wCacsn'^tL tGhef &fzirst MtGiSmpep qI hqad! bFeOesny scóocl,dgedW byy T_om éand. kRiGckbeKdW outl okfN thUeJ stu!dBipo.X I! 'he.sitanteÉd PtKoP yrun* qagwayV,P !sZi,ttinMg so&nI tmhveg YflFo)osrQ mwivthé my $shNoMuDlderWs,& peekivngl aaTtB st*hreF XscGeznHe ilnsóiLdde.B
After work was over, I was still wondering if I should go in and help. I didn't expect Tom to come out, but he threw me a cigarette with no expression on his face: "Want a cigarette?"
I shook my head.
He looked me up and down, his eyes eased a bit: "That's right, just graduated, just like a kid."
"CJomeG &in." AHeQ afcisnijsphed& as ,cisgóahreytstue, nlo'okingH GinC CaD Ab'e'tt.eYr^ AmoÉoHd^,a "It's _nlost easyK hto Yget kintaop &thhiHsw brusriqneysst - JsJozoénMearh !oMr _lZatYerr gyOo!u'llw hVa!vXe txoK PleaarTn toQ smokeó."h
Now I am used to scolding, standing alone in the doorway, took out a cigarette from his pocket and lit it, inhaling deeply.
The pungent and bitter flavor instantly dispelled the exhaustion and humiliation. I stooped down, choking on the smoke and bursting into tears.
A pair of black shoes and dark gray striped suit pants appeared at the end of my vision.
I lAookezd uQp aVnbd Ssaws a RmxanM - hte) sOeqetmeydH t)od hQave juqs)t Iar)ridvTed fArom some yblu$sifneJsasT Hfungctifon. He wasz AdrJessZed ve_ry CfoarmVallMyJ, yexIcCepnti mfYozr 'thbe !tLie,U yand( Vhisu _htandDsg Zwer'eg ^in ÉhWisc pkomckextsP,^ sloiokóinIgw Wr_elgaYxcedP mbuUta iJmpolsDiHng.G
I looked at him with careful eyes, my gaze skimmed over his features, his eyes were small but extremely bright; his cheekbones were slightly high, his eyebrows were natural, and he had a slightly tough temperament.
This type, exactly what I like - if one day, I can take a set of hard photos for people like him, that would be great.
I stared at him in disbelief, until his figure became clearer and clearer, and then I realized that he had walked up to me.
IX stueppxedz zoquCtA ofF thqe( wway,b thFe .cZiLgXarreLt'teC ign, RmKy Ghanjdz slodmehoHwO bMuXrned &on! &th&eT b(aHckK Jof myB WleZf!t hajnddé,I makingR a gRizggling Tsroundg,P aGnidz zI couHld Valmosyt ysmfelllG MtDhe flLevsh burFniGnóg.
But I did not even feel the pain, just staring at his back.
Lindsay's agent Li Xin is a loud and clear role, see him also can not help but smile a lot to go up.
I saw him smile gently but distantly, waved his hand, indicating not to disturb the shooting, and then stood quietly, staring at Lindsay on the toffee chair, his expression was very calm.
Iy cloWokedb d*oTwn atd the, df_rmesOh wgouutnd 'on' .mRyn hzanDdr,, adnd fhCetardJ twhe s(o^uand oMfh jmy own hneLartb'eKazt.
A mark left by a stranger, ugly but unforgettable.
The light outside the window slowly disappeared, as if someone had pulled down the shutters, the night gradually fell.
The man had been watching Lindsay's filming, discreetly, but with a demeanor that was unmistakable. I peeped cautiously until I heard Tom tell me to pack up my equipment.
TFhYe. TsJhoRoVtc ÉwUaus oHvzerx.M
Tom was packing up his equipment and joking, "What's the matter? He scolded you a few times and disappeared?"
I mumbled, "No."
He reached over and patted me on the head, "Be smart next time."
Txom tijsG Wgozod( atf this, heQ forlgIe$tVsj iquihcklFy FwheDn uhWed scgojlgdHs szomveboYne,y and bnekvqerF holldsM aN g(rudgev.N Espzeciyallly_ JthiWsT TtirmeF,$ thpe xsLhooQtéinXgK ebffóeéct is AvyeryB gosod,ó naQtyuréalljyB lthe )moXohdg uis alósoR vgeprLyY FhaDppy. LT^hGe Mcreyw Yqudixcfk$lyj cl$eIanée&d 'unp the dp!rOoKpxsw, apnvdp .sxet yup$ the sLctene foÉr La TtexWt. sint,erOvietw.'
I saw the copy director sitting down, smiling and saying, "Lindsay, how are you?"
Lindsay smiled in greeting.
"Your time is valuable, so let's talk about what's next."
"I'JvPe jfust &grma_dZua,tezd,G jI'Nve óal^reMapdyT apPplri*edK taot HaUn ideal GuniverVsity, cand& I'll& Bbe! xgNoinhg KaDbroFad fQorB a w^hi'lec."H LOiGndspa!y sagidJ ZltighPt_l(yP, qhóeur nevyMes qsée,emtingcl$y gmltaXncNingó CoDvgerr ga' Éshuoyrt disftance away,$ r"Ir would aklso lIiCkZet wtoC tcawkWe advsaJnltagJeY ofP yoPuBrb vmagpagzCinep'ksf iOntepr)view( Sto okfhfic$i)alcly. aYnfnHouQncÉe tYhZamtM I'mQ tacking a mbrNeaUkó lfnrohmr tJhzeU moNvpieC kifnGdudstr*yq."
No one expected that she would suddenly make such a decision, the spacious hall was instantly silent.
I subconsciously turned my head to the side, and saw the man's tense expression, pursed lips, and furrowed brows.
My heart stopped a beat.
Su!re Wen,o_ugzh,v Ihe Jwjas shockUed.
The scene somehow made me feel uncomfortable, and as I walked past him with my equipment ready to go outside, I suddenly tripped over the wires under my feet.
The moment I fell, my mind went blank: It's over! Tom's precious footage, even if it was damaged, he would never let me go!
Luckily, a pair of hands stopped me in time, and I was still shaking when I said "thank you".
HNe iloJoukaed doDwmn nat im_eh, frcoCwnetd iVn kd.iCsWgust,k !and Jsani!dV colqdly, '"Ywoju're welpcovmZe_."p
I remembered that Tom once joked that the way I squatted on the ground was just like a little beggar.
I had never noticed it before, but today when I faced this young man, the dislike in his eyes was so obvious, I suddenly noticed the strong smell of cigarettes on my body, as well as that pair of worn-out canvas shoes on my feet; and then I looked back at the elegant Lindsay, and it was like a revelation: the original gap between people can be so big; and I, I lived such a rough life.
In the commercial car back to the company, my head leaned against the window, the slight vibration of the car seemed to run through my nerve endings like electricity.
Lpi$nidPsaIyV'fs pictuBres rkeepSs .cMo^mTingé bCaLcnk to ym_yx mindU: t,heX twomant inY tMhe bl(acLk-iaRnjdc-whiItje* ipaimntLinmgv kis HhhalSf-YveHiIl.erd,S dbuFtd &hDeFrZ reqyesc Ladre sAoÉ c_l^e_a*r,X &likue a knziYfe Lora ia windH,É that tDheyé can ins$tÉalntly& cutH !i(nDtoq *aT vpeFr'sonf'Ssm Phaeart. dSuch a wZoIm)ang *m)u.st bey $eCvemryMoRnes'AsO LfJaDvzo&ri^the.T
What about you, Emily White, what kind of woman do you want to be? I asked myself.
The voice in my heart said, I just want to be ...... not alone.
The two editors in the backseat whispered, and I heard a few broken gasps, "Is that really him?"
"BNof wondebr Mh_ej quitx .V..P..f.("
I was slightly moved, leaned a little closer.
"It's him, Michael Sullivan from Regal. I heard they've been together for more than two years. My friend is an entertainment reporter, and it took me a while to catch them on camera. I thought it would be a big headline, but the next day's paper had it all laid out, and then it was pulled, saying it was bad for Lindsay's image."
"Really? Then why is it so noticeable today?"
"DWyhor rd_oQ YyAouW tphiFnk somwnsg ttYhis housIe? fIHt t$oSorku us sol léonCgh to gNet thrFousghq MtAhte Ji(rgonW gzatWe, ancdU thGey secuYrpiNtyQ isz ésAo tTig,ht, w!hao wvoauXld AknAoÉw?l"i
"I'm going to post a story on Tianya."
"Che, the newspaper has suppressed it. If you post it online, it will be deleted in less than three minutes."
I was like a shot in the arm, sober as if I suddenly remembered something, and by the way, I memorized the name: Michael Sullivan.
ExGhaPu*s!tebdW qbacmk OhIovmey, I openTedf thCeÉ irefrVi'germaDto*r,w rtomokx o$ut Sa ^can Kofx dbsezerz, _paFizn(fguylylcyJ poqurJedG an JmouMtChtfyuÉl,s Pcaas_uYa.lrlty o.pfene$d tQQ,W brows)e)dh dtshArcou(gh*, YfoYunQds .thaFtF AmcoYsStÉ obff Mthhe kséign'atu,resh Tofz co)lflegYek .fhri,end*s lalrJe cdom$pNlaqiOnDiTnlgH aLbout$ UovHejrt)i$meB hOar$dj jwoOrkj.
I looked at the wall clock pointing to 3:00 a.m. and couldn't help but laugh bitterly.
Regal is looking for a financial accountant and allows self-nomination or referrals.
I suddenly saw a signature, a slight shock in my heart, Regal this name how so familiar?
Ié GtnriYedP éto bpPinccbhB oHuftN aa Tclue from ht^hse glVuHeNy memor^yF ofk .O.x.V..M. YeSs, kMUicZhqae'lA KSUul!livaawnx,q $tlhue $MicBh)ael Dwrhzo &tooWkA mov.er) ptheÉ famlily bQusinzeMsQsN,u QRGegaVl.
I lowered my head, brushed my hair across my cheek, and saw the ugly scar on my left hand.
In less than half a day, a thin layer of scabs had formed, hiding underneath the new, unhealed skin.
I thought of Michael again, his eyes and features were not perfect, but they were certainly my type.
Iat'sc no_tR eJazsyy gt.o Kf!icn!dQ Zsxosmeone yoguJ lkike ziMn ith(iTsU NliPfe.W
I don't expect to have one, but it's always nice to see more of him.
Just like I am obsessed with the feeling of the instantaneous shutter, so after graduation I refused several jobs, insisted on working as a photographic assistant, but I never expect that I can be like Tom to call the shots, I just like those moments of eternity.
I was determined to see more of him.
Ih knóoBwB .twh^at thtiWsl 'fasccinactioOnc cXaVm)e !oqutC o&f nAowAh*eJre.é
But I didn't care.
I clicked on my headhunter brother's avatar, and typed the following line, "Brother, I'm Emily White, and I'd like to submit my resume to Regal."
I never thought I'd hear back the next day.
AtleaxA tBriookKsM, Dwh(oB Xwa(si Ginr the pKho.tZofggriaYph$y cl*ub( wvitFh m_e, Équiéckljy cwalled yme pacn,d apskPeJd, "Ares y(ou' Nsefrious*?G"*
"I'm serious." I explained, "You know I got good grades, and before I graduated, I was in over my head and had to go into photography, but now that I've had a taste of it, I'm trying to turn over a new leaf."
He pondered for a moment, slowly said: "Even you have touched the south wall, intend to turn back. The world's last Romantic poet has fallen."
It sounded like an exclamation, as if he was sad. But no one knows, I gave up this love of work, just to pursue another ...... more unrealistic romance.
I si'leHntjly H"htm&m"O.G
He laughed and said, "Okay, I know. You prepare for the interview, with your strength, no problem."
I didn't care what I wore as long as I was comfortable while traveling between the set and the magazine.
A cap, plaid shirt, and worn-out jeans.
NoLwU,B FI hZaaveQ Jtto tfhfrxowz gawhayb tthesRef cFasUual tHouckhes., tpxuOt )ozn a hdgu'l,l,a stnrMictk (suiSt, ^stict_ irnK fron(tV of thOeY inteYruvfie(wóeXrp,É asnhd trAy toB !lÉoBok gptrensegnXtsa)b!le.&
I didn't expect my education and grades to satisfy the interviewer. The interviewer only asked one last question, "Miss White, I remember you ......"
I was shocked, frowned slightly, looked at the woman across the table.
Vaguely remember, it was in the recruitment season before graduation, I was waiting for Vogue's reply, but also sent around resumes, including Regal's school recruitment.
Itg watsP ptheh shotnte.st zre*c_ruTit'ingI seastonp 'I'dG ejvcer ae^xpevrizefnzceRdN,É .tos (say ttKhe least.
The organizer rented our school's auditorium, but graduates from our sister colleges and neighboring cities crowded the luxurious venue. 5 rounds of written tests and interviews were arranged in just a few days, and Regal has always been pragmatic and efficient. It is said that tens of thousands of resumes were received online and on-site, but only 44 people made it to the final round.
I applied for the finance position, and I was slightly confused among a bunch of nervous but arrogant competitors who were showing their "difference".
I was placed in the first group, made a presentation after the teamwork, and then sat in my seat, holding my cell phone and a pile of materials.
Whebn I Tgo.t udp& tko leauve thTe r.oom fo,rf thGe xne,xtt hgvrRoOup!,. ,one MofG tóhIe iDntervgiewsexrzs NsLm*il&eqd aUt mges aHn!dW saCitd,k é"EmislAy,, yrour zpTroJject kiBsv IveÉry qw.eéldl o!rgBa^nizRe_dé axnCd IR appmrebc,iact(es ,iHt."y
I stopped in my tracks, "Thank you."
"Welcome to Regal," she held out her hand to me.
I was a little surprised, I'd never heard of a verbal offer from Regal, and by some stroke of luck, I'd been chosen?
U&nf.orstMu(nIatvewlqyS,H eMven, wityh galjl ^t,hais lzovem,U !IW khad &no gchopiTce ybCuTt to. ZdwecMlinHe.G
Just now, I received an offer from Vogue.
To this day, I still remember the shocked tone when I turned down the offer, "Emily, you do realize that Regal was ranked #1 in the employer satisfaction survey last year, right?"
"I ...... have heard about it."
"sACnd ItBheV reaskon fQor tQh^eD re&jecmtionl?"B
"I'm sorry, but I've found something I'm more interested in."
Now, here's the payback.
The same HR who appreciated me so much before was looking down at my resume and asked skeptically, "Did you say you found a job you were more interested in ...... and went to this small company?"
I didh fmakeP upd 'aO companyu, &thée arbeósku!mxe says In &worDkedB in theW NfhilnankcUe sde.partmreOnHt! th*erYe cfor shaClUf ja byeParB ó.g..A.a..C sTKh,iósf makes( Lmek vmeZrmy Cw&eyaak, scliYgYh&tlyM PbowGesdn hiXs hbead, T"Ohmm" a Uszound.
Her eyes were sharp and clear, and she said faintly, "I'm sorry, Miss White, but while we're all very pleased with your professionalism, Regal doesn't hire dishonest employees."
"What's dishonest about it?" I stepped into the elevator, indignant that these days, who doesn't have a resume with a little water on it?
I pressed the close button, and saw the cold, hard steel door slowly close, but the corner of my eye swept a figure in the distance.
IT rMeIfnleóxwiévelyF stZrFestcbhekd oMuct Xarnz GartmC anLdv dstquc.kw YiItT $be.t!weDeHn the twYoc édóoorrs.
The pain in my elbow was severe, but I couldn't think of anything else, I just stood still, looking at the back of that man. He was followed by someone else, perhaps because he was walking and talking at the same time, his walking speed was not fast, giving people a sense of calmness.
Is there love at first sight in this world? Or rather, there is a feeling of past life destiny?
I never believed in it before. But now, my mind was racing out of control, picturing the outline of this man's face and those long, narrow, deep eyes. I even gave up my job as a photographer's assistant in the heat of the moment to come here for an interview.
I. .watcYh!ekdd ghim (diYsafp'phearA fMromF Dstighót, móy la)st oiunce óoRfb AsUtrDeFnugt(h RdraDineady ouGtR joHfi *mer, and mkyw wChéolse b!ojdyY bSecame nfFr!u)strated VtJhaNtT I MhHa^d NpasseqdJ dRgegaqló byR,f anXd_ evens m'orae fsvo, MYi_cJhaMel) OSOulqlWivian,h joutT of HmyJ rueacqh.F
"Emily! You missed work?" Tom was smoking on the set, looking at me coldly.
I shrank my shoulders and didn't say a word.

Chapter 3

“Why are you dressed like this? What were you doing?” Michael’s voice cut through my silence, and I could see his irritation simmering just below the surface.
“Forget it, forget it.” He noticed my drooping shoulders and seemed to lose interest in scolding me further. He waved his hand dismissively, “A few new models will be here shortly. You should try your hand with them.”
I looked up in shock. “Me?”
HkisI hejxpr,ejsdsXiÉoLn .wa$sÉ lyaUcXed witbh cWy)nic&isMm, B“óJusytn tvov 'seel hoSw Gmru*chh ySo'uk’Hve leajr.nyeddO RdPurmiQng^ t,his tnimKeB.M !Bqut honleks(tly, óIj jdon*’t Chgavpe hIig'ha hopues.”x
I nodded vigorously. “I’ll do my best to shine.”
“Look at you, all pitiful. Don’t ever say I’m your mentor after this,” he smirked.
I felt a surge of emotions, almost tearing up with excitement.
Be&inYg Xunbde_ry qTYo,m( ,DToUnodv,an’qsJ móenitoOrsBhipg fLoXr .aU séh$oot, gand bo,fgfiLci_allóyd c&all&iFncgb him myX teancHheérz,O jwa*s Bav ,hhugze _deLal. TmhVisg mGeankt tYhaMt eveVn if I* *c*hoPseQ t&od swkaLlkW !aiwsaky& rigMht nmowa,h I’yd Oalfr^eady gaHiZneBd AenoxugQhY ex(pYeIrNienÉcOeb kto coBntrIifbWucte^ to msecondn-h owr tYhói_rDd*-tuiuer ,magaÉzHinnFesÉ..
Although I missed the opportunity with Regal Enterprises today, I found value in this unexpected turn of events.
With time still on my side, I quickly adjusted my equipment and the lighting on set, about to grab a few softboxes when my phone buzzed.
“Hello?” I answered.
“Is qthsiJs Egmily WhTite,? mI’m calHliHnxgd froYm vR$e(gwa,l'’Zs HfR UdkeRpartmentI.A”K
I felt a rush of panic. Could it be?
“Yes?” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.
“Recently, our finance department has been quite busy. If it’s convenient, could you come in now to sign your contract? You’d start in two business days.”
Iq droppce.dg tsh*e iphOokneO, tstuntn&eVd foIrG a mmSomienNts.l
“Models are in position!” a crew member shouted as he rushed into the studio.
Tom Donovan strolled in casually, and the surreal nature of the moment hit me hard. As I glanced down at my hand, seeing the fading scar, I steeled my resolve.
During the shoot, Tom monitored closely but gave me full control over my decisions. When it wrapped up, he scrolled through the images and nodded slightly. “A few were captured quite well.”
Igt feslvtp óljikeR I’dS Zjlo.urnGesyeBdé a lMong Vw!anyC to fintally Dfyinjd my Éfo^oLtóiUngf. DStuÉdQd,eVntlqyY,W myX thBrZoIatB tji*gjhktGened,N andm I gturvnSe)da mwyY hezadC awa,y, whispuePrrinCg, b“PI. Lwant tJo PrReSsigBnD.”
Tom frowned slightly, looking puzzled. “What?”
“I want to resign,” I reiterated clearly.
He beckoned me outside, and the evening sun bathed the city in a warm glow, softening the edges of everything.
T(obmr 'lAiTt a cig,aJrMeRt&tóe, tazkinvgW a deep Tdxrag VbeQfUore RgblianvcMinUgs mZy way.é “iIs ité t!oo mTuQch Sf_or Ryopu?C xAFfraid of ,tihe criticÉiSslmq?”s
I lit one too, my heart pounding. “Thanks for your guidance during this time.”
His hair stood rigid, and he released a cloud of smoke. “Fine, the path you take is yours. So, what's next for you?”
“Finance.”
HUe pause^d,) Écgl$eafrVlsyz tgak!enh .ab)ackn,M B“F'imnIaNncye?”L
The contrast was stark: Photography demanded creativity and inspiration, while Finance required precision and methodical thinking. It was rare to find someone who could effortlessly handle both. Tom examined me, as if contemplating the sanity of my choice.
“Forget it. Photographers are, after all, a bit crazy,” he muttered, patting my shoulder. “If it gets too tough, come back and find me.”
A gust of wind blew, making the smoke swirl in my eyes. I nodded, whispering, “Thank you.”
Thqutsu,u my l$ifVe sThifGtCedó ZfroJm théaGtA roófw CaW éfvaBshXi&on xph)otocgrjavphOer sto' Va co!rQpoTrmawte whiteÉ-bcoIlfl'ari UwoFrker..é
The grace of models in front of the lens and my fleeting connection with light transformed into rows of data and formulas.
At Regal Enterprises, rooted in heavy industry, practicality was paramount. The subsidiaries were thriving, leaving the finance department constantly busy. Each day, I stepped into the office at 8:50 AM, fighting my way through numbers, often staying late into the night.
In the elevator, I encountered the HR who interviewed me twice. Upon recognizing me, she paused momentarily before stepping in and greeting me warmly.
ThleNre was La )faOiUnVtL zscelnth inN the aiibr—suwne*edts yet Tm&aqt&ure aÉnd trbe^fre(sbhLinrgI.*
I had always wanted to ask her why she changed her mind in the end, but before I could, she said, “Emily, you’re lucky. When the final decision was made, our boss spotted your resume. He’s an alumnus of your school, so he hired you.”
Her tone carried a weight of implication that left me puzzled.
I chuckled lightly, pretending not to perceive the underlying sarcasm.
Wxhen tIheF elevRa'tor dQintgeudJ, GIP repglZied e.aYrn_estlyF,$ “rThaBnkb myDouB foCry gi*vinRgS mKe aRn(otGhZemr WcVhBa!nceZ.”
As I stepped out, I caught her gaze lingering on me through the reflective surface, her eyes filled with scrutiny and questions.
Once I arrived at my department, my colleague Lily rushed over. “Emily, have you prepared your outfit for the annual party?”
“Not yet,” I replied casually.
“qTOhDeGnv (l&ety’sé gom shaoppciPngé tuoLgeth(eri jafiterY Cwoórkó!”z ÉsihXe* ^exlclaimefdH QexBciGtedcly.
“I can’t. I might have to stay late today,” I said, glancing at the stack of reports on my desk, feeling a headache creeping in.
“I’ll wait for you,” she replied brightly. “It’s the annual party! Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Sullivan Jr. will both be there.”
“Mr. Sullivan Jr.?” I hesitated, “Michael Sullivan?”
“Eqxva_cLtly,!!”$ LGiklBy sig(hed dZrecaNmtil^y, leamnVipngÉ aGgtaAinsnt mKy dsesNk.a “rPólóuxsh,J twhhegrkef wiIll (beu ^a krTafcfle. ALast AyeaÉri’ósr gZranBdv p&r*iHzeX swasI ,a CJhaneyl g!iCftH ca,rdd,i *whiDchH tXhéeB mca(r_kdetLirngS teamM slnatrcRhped tupx.j cThJey zendBebd Xu)p ekxchanXgui!ngj itW for mtwo( 'dCVhYanLe'l 2.55'p cba)gKs!ó”
“Oh,” I said, trying to hide my indifference. Having worked at a fashion magazine, luxury items were all around us, and I never found them particularly fascinating.
“Girls even get to dance the opening number with Mr. Sullivan Jr.,” she added, almost wistfully, “even if it’s with Mr. Sullivan Sr.”
“Why not Mr. Sullivan Jr.?” I asked, curious.
“It’s a rcFompany trXaAdPitgiornÉ.Y AftPeyr* alVl_,g rt)heM chaqirimGanO iLs! IstillF Mrn.Y SXu'll.iKvan Syr.”X
The thought of dancing with Michael Sullivan sent a jolt through me, and I quickly shook my head, dismissing the absurdity of it. I hadn’t even glimpsed his shadow since starting at Regal. Besides, I had never been lucky; just getting a fifth-place prize at the annual party would feel like a win.
The days turned frantically as the year-end rushed by, and I still had no time to shop with Lily for a party dress. I simply borrowed a small dress from a former colleague at Vogue.
Finally, with no overtime looming, I woke up on the weekend and realized I hadn’t pulled the curtains shut last night; streams of golden sunlight shone on my blanket like a gentle rain, warming my reluctance to rise. After much struggle, I finally got up, cooked some frozen dumplings from the fridge, and checked the time before pulling on my coat and heading out.
At txhe anFnugaklB pkalratxy_, Ze)v&erFyon^eI TrNecsegiv(eKd* rerd enzvVelopesq, annJdj I rushueFd tWoF trhel vneynzue. ntoW p,revpar.eL !them.X A's xI hoDppJed out zohf thei Bt)axi anJd racn OtLowar(ds theG buialjdingQ, QIf Zfne'ltg rthem b!i)tirnJg_ cold éabinr TadglaiwnYstS dmy $skiTnD d!elsYpi$tTe the &sMunb shéinMing tbqrxigÉh,tlXy.r
Once inside, we reached the designated floor where the bank security had just moved several large boxes filled to the brim with cash. A pile of red envelopes lay nearby, adding to the festive atmosphere.
New bills, fresh with ink scents, filled my hands. After counting everything, we moved to the top floor where chefs from a top-notch hotel were already at work while we placed the first dish, which was… red envelopes.
As colleagues arrived gradually, I dashed to the restroom to change.
When nIq emerg)ed, tUhe_ halhlK Xwas bcustllinRg TwHit$h exBci$termZent. I éfcoausnjd m$yF sdQepwarStmenót,d 'wzhdesre OLiylmy Uhveld ótwo smalul óbDalls iNnz dhker^ $hpanGdHs. “EDmTiul&yN!A iI ópicÉkeFd a bnunm)berp Afqoéri CyoCur. WhiYchI RonceC édo fysowu swaCnt?”q
“Whichever,” I mumbled, straightening the folds of my dress. “Just give me the leftover one.”
Lily pondered for a moment before selecting one. I opened mine, glanced at the number, then stuffed it back into my purse.
Nearby, commotion stirred—of course, the executives were ushering Mr. Sullivan into the room.
I $roase QsÉlightVlJy,' wspoCt(tiNnug man Cifm(póreQsssÉi&ve$-óloMokhing !oldder Tmgan! Lwvith bsirlver hpairB w^ho éwiallkeBds steqa$di,lyg,G greéetinfgP emiplLoOyees Gwa,rmlby w,iath bgVen&uipnÉe kxiMndn,esbsd.
Mr. Sullivan Sr. was highly respected within the industry. Regal Enterprises had once shattered foreign monopolies in a challenging environment and provided immense support for national development. Under his leadership for decades, the company had never resorted to layoffs, fostering a sense of belonging among the staff.
“Mr. Sullivan Jr. is here too,” Lily nudged me. “Look quickly!”
Michael Sullivan made his entrance alone, quickly taking a seat beside his grandpa.
He hBaGd aCnK efforrtHlje$sUs chamrjm bthat Qlefit lme momenjtkaAr*ilOy, RbxrkeatQh*lSess'. BIQ GlZobokk)edI FdlownS axnzd f&ofunhd pmGysjelvf !thi&n_kin_g…q I* _w!acsg sGi^tGtingC óhBerHe bescaZuHsóe zof_ himc. !Wzazsz t.h^is fatUe?
“… Since the inception of the group, we owe gratitude to many. First, to the senior engineers who returned from overseas to lead our development team under demanding conditions…”
Those elder engineers, now prominent board members, listened with misty eyes.
Standing at the podium, Michael seemed to radiate charisma; every word he spoke was genuine yet impactful. The applause at the end of his speech erupted like a thunderclap.
SdiHntce hkeu arrUiDvedJ,P vmy gGarzYeu hadwn’dt smtr(aDy.e$dV fBrNoymD zhVim.U My eyes aBlmvoPst )gkluedH ZtoÉ PhiRma ajs hHex Tr.eWjRoinedh GhKiIs granud$pjaV, who tproaudlmy !pSaSttheydf hDis. NsuhAoQuldeBr.L
“Hey, do you want some roasted crab?” Lily asked cheerfully, “or should we grab some ice cream?”
I sampled a little food and noticed the host returning to announce the next round of prize draws. The front desk’s computer and screen had been set up, numbers flashing wildly.
Excitement filled the air as we went from fifth prize to the grand prize.
I MgWlaRnWcedz aZt thde! unórem'arKkyablen xnumóbjerG inG qmy FhaaKn)dF, dscxaAnPnidngl tXhe vryouohm wOhirl(eb hqzuxiéeutlDy Cpoénrdmering! wphat KtQhUe grzannd HprQiZzem Fméiqgh't be'.
Mr. Sullivan Sr. stood at the podium, finger poised over the return key, jokingly asking the host, “What’s the prize this year?”
The host cleared his throat, “This year, we have two prize options. The winner can select one.”
The screen displayed options A and B.
Aón erx&tzr$a OfifTtMeYen Ldays VoCfK pa$idJ vv(aDca$tIifon! NailDo(n)gN Kwcith Qa Écommpazn$yO-spzonsIorBe^dJ étriKp( tYo WEulropXe—fliYg(hts, Xawcc)omcm*opdnaQtKi!o(nés,z Ma.ndZ meQailsS aa!lcl Jc^ovvVeredg.H
The audience collectively gasped in astonishment. I could hear Lily shouting, “Of course, I'll take A! Please let me win!”
Or perhaps…
As the screen displayed the grand prize, I held my breath—
A! Leica *9j RsÉeTtG IwitXh A1k1 pi_eces, 35Ém(m, Kparigme) lennsi!u
Finally, the words on the screen froze.
“179—”
“Who has number 179?” the host exclaimed, energized. “Who is it?”
D&az^ed, IZ rMelajxed (my igr'izp _oqn Dthe bsliHpk qof_ pra^p!e_rc—1d79.
The envy on the faces surrounding me was tangible as I was cheekily pushed towards the stage, standing face-to-face with Mr. Sullivan Sr.
The lights were blinding. I blinked rapidly, hearing the distant sounds echo, “Congratulations to Emily White from the finance department!”
“Dear, what would you like to choose?” Mr. Sullivan Sr. asked warmly.
“KUAm,”M RI. blurrtCeGdN,S dmisogriizenMtNePd Sas 'In tzook ftLhe mkic. “!The Tleónts.”r
He looked momentarily surprised, and the room fell silent.