Happy 22nd birthday, @vikkirose !!!
Sorry this is a day late, but I wasn't really home yesterday, so hopefully it's okay I'm posting it now (and the attractive shirtless men make up for it)!
 
Happy belated birthday, again! And I hope you had a wonderful day, and I'm so glad that we're friends. :)
<3

I roll over in my bed, stretching some as I open my eyes. I lie back on my, smiling some as I hear the sound of the waves from the ocean out my window. I loved waking up to that sound. It made me feel at home, at peace almost.
 
Ever since I was little, I had always felt this way by the ocean. My family didn't exactly grow up on the beach but we always ended up going to the ocean during the summer. We'd go to my grandmother's hours. It happened to be a house right on the beach. It wasn't like my family was one of means, but her father had built the house, and passed it down to her. She and my grandfather lived there, and still do. I loved that beach house. I still do, although I don't visit as often as I should. I had such a busy schedule now a days.
 
But back when I was a kid, we went to that beach house and stay pretty much the entire season. It was a tradition. My mom would take us down, and my dad would meet up with us on weekends when he wasn't working. I would always wake my mom up early and drag her out to take me to the beach. I would spend hours and hours swimming in that ocean. It didn't matter how hot, or cold, or even rainy it was. I always spent the day in the water. My mom used to joke I was born a mermaid or something. Maybe she was right, who knew.
 
There was just something about being down by the sea that made me at peace. It was because of those summers that I knew I would grow up and end up working in an occupation that dealt with the ocean. And turns out I was right, because now, my life centered around it.
 
I lie in bed, just listening to the waves before I force myself and get up. I walk over to the window, smiling when I see the swell of the waves. I turn and catch the clock. I had enough time to go and watch a few before seeing what I could do for the day.
 
I go and quickly get changed into my swim trunks, grabbing my board as I head out my doors, running towards the waves. The second I'm far enough out, I drive in, and paddle my way out. This all just felt so natural to me. I can't recall a time when it ever felt weird or unnatural to me. I was born to be in the water. And the second my uncle took me out that first day to learn to surf, there was no looking back for me. I had found my calling.
 
I catch a few good waves, deciding after a bit to call it. The swell from earlier had died down, and the normal beach crowd was starting to scatter around the beach. Soon enough, the sea would be filled with tourists, and beach goers swimming, and it'd just become more of a hassle for me to surf.
 
I reach the shore again, heading back to my place. It was small and run down, although I could afford some place more secluded and extravagant, but I liked my little apartment-esque home. It was close to my favorite part of the beach, and it was low maintenance. I didn't really care about material stuff like that either. I'd rather just have a roof over my head, people who care about me, and an opportunity to do what I loved. And I think I had all of that.
 
Once I get back to my place, I lean my board up against the wall and head back to the bathroom. I take a quick shower, letting the hot water hit me. It was such a stark contrast from the ocean water. I quickly wash up before getting out. I run a towel through my hair, before walking back to my room, grabbing the first clean thing I can find. I throw it on quickly, before deciding to head back to the beach. It was a nice day, and if I couldn't surf, I might as well just spend the day there.
 
I grab my book and slip a pair of shoes on before walking back to my favorite spot on the sand. It was kind of close to the tide pool, and close enough to the waves without getting wet. I slip my shoes off, and sit down on the sand, starting to read.
 
After awhile, I stop, and decide to just people watch. There weren't as many people as there usually were here, but just enough for it to be considered busy. I scan my general area, and notice various groups of people. There was the family, making sandcastles with their young children. The group of guys playing a game of pick up football. The group of probably sorority girls, laying out tanning. I look around a bit more, noticing another group of girls walking onto the beach. They were all beautiful, and athletic looking, but in an unexplainably sexy way.
 
Before I can check them out some more, I notice that the group of guys playing football have a ball that's gone off course, but none seem to notice since it appears that someone in the group has said something hilarious and they're all too buys cracking up to pay attention to their football. It was heading straight towards the group of girls looks for a space. They seemed unaware of the presence of the object heading towards them. It seemed to be honing in a very pretty blonde.
 
I debate for a moment before I decide to get up and go and save the girl from getting hit, or even hurt. It wasn't like I was that far away from them.
 
"Watch out!"I call out to the blonde as I run towards her. She turns and looks at me, a questioning look on her face. She still wasn't aware of the football heading towards her head. I reach her and carefully, as gently as I can, push her out of the way, catching the football in the process. I throw it back to the group of guys before turning back to the beautiful blonde, who was now down in the sand, looking up at me, probably more annoyed than anything.
 
"Sorry... are you alright?" I ask, holding my hand out for her. "I just couldn't bear to see you get hit by that football...."
 
[sooorry about the ending, but insert Maddie here?]

A few notes;
1. I LOVE this song. I'm obsessed. Manchester Orchestra AND Frightened Rabbit making a song together? beauty.
 
2. I'm trying out a new layout. I think I really like it.
 
Anyways... on to the story.
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I run down the block, slipping into the back door of Delux Cafe. I was supposed to work tonight and I completely forgot until about ten minutes before my shift, which meant I ended up being twenty minutes late. Although, this wasn't completely my fault. The T had gotten backed up ridiculously, and that was a pretty big reason why I was late, not because it had completely slipped my mind that I had a shift tonight.
 
I slip into the employee entrance, clocking in. "Sorry, sorry, I know I'm late. I got backed up on the T.'' I say to my boss as I slip my jacket off and hang it up. "I'll stay after a little to make up for it."
 
Jeff, my boss, laughs, shaking his head. "Don't worry about it, Astréa, honestly. I have a feeling tonight is going to be slow." He makes a face at me, before waving me towards the main room. "Now go and be the sexy bartender I know you are."
 
I laugh some, "Yeah, yeah, I'll try." I say before slipping into the room, and setting up shop behind the bar. In no time I get my first order, and my night gets underway from there.
 
A few hours pass by, the rush crowd kind of dies down, which gives me the opportunity to relax some. I lean back, and watch some of the customers.
 
We often always had an interesting crowd at the bar, and tonight was no different. I look around from group to group, smiling some when I notice a particularly interesting group sitting near the corner. It was a small group, no more than six. There were a few girls, but the group was made up of mostly guys. They were definitely celebrating something, but I couldn't tell what. There was a certain... vibe that came off of the group. It wasn't a bad one, but I couldn't exactly tell what it was.
 
I decide to watch them a little bit more, noticing one member of the group in particular has really caught my eye. He has probably the most genuine smile I've ever seen, and eyes, that even from across the bar, were bright and I could see them twinkle from here. There was something about him that drew me to him.
 
I decide to stop being a creep, and turn over to my co-worker, Nathan, and ask, "What do you think they're celebrating?" I motion towards where the group I've been watching is sitting.
 
Nathan shrugs, "Who knows." He pauses. "But don't look now. One of them is heading over now. You could totally find out." He says, slipping out of the way, mostly to give me the opportunity to serve whoever is coming over.
 
I look back out, and notice it's the attractive blonde. I smirk some, sliding closer to the bar. Once he reaches where I am, I smile at him. "Can I help you?"
 
"Oh, uh... yeah. Whiskey. Neat." He says, smiling some at me.
 
I smile back, reaching back to grab a glass. "So.. what brings you here tonight?" I decide to just go for it and ask. There was still something so intriguing about this guy to me. Too bad I was working so I couldn't exactly get to know him.
 
"Oh, just.. my friends and I decided to celebrate the end of finals." He says, smiling a bit more.
 
"Well, that certainly sounds fun." I say, giving him a smile back.
 
Thinking on my feet, I grab a pen, and decide to write on a napkin, before I go and make his drink. I just scribble, 'I get off in an hour, call me. ;)' and my phone number. I didn't want to be too forward, but I really wanted to get to know this guy. There honestly was something about him I couldn't get out of my head.
 
I pour him his whiskey, and place the napkin down before sliding the glass over to him. "Well, enjoy your night." I say, smiling and giving him a wink as he pays me.
 
"Yeah, you too. Thanks." He says, giving me a small wave before heading back to his group of friends.
 
I sigh once he's gone, cleaning the bar up some, just kind of waiting for my shift to be over and really hoping that the guy got my message and would end up calling me.
 
[Soooorry about the ending, but insert Andrew heeeere?]

I sigh heavily, fixing my bag over my shoulder as I walk out of work. I walk down out to the sidewalk, holding my hand out to catch a cab. I wait, and wait, watching as a few cabs pass by me.
 
I roll my eyes, “Oh fck it.” I mumble, sighing as I start to walk down the sidewalk, trying to find the nearest T station. It had been such a long day, and I just honestly felt so shitty after the day I had had. I just kinda wanted to get home (or well, my boyfriend’s place) and just forget about today.
 
I find a T station, walking down and swiping my Charlie card, and getting in the next train, heading towards my boyfriend Will’s apartment. I look around, finding a seat and sitting down, sighing heavily. I just needed to calm myself down some, since I didn’t want to worry Will whenever I do get to his place. Today had just sucked and I was so beyond frustrated. I just needed to get to some place and unwind, and my boyfriend usually was good at helping me with that.
 
The train finally reaches my stop and I get up and off and head back up to the street. I sigh, looking around before I head down Bolyston Street, towards Will’s apartment.
 
I finally reach his apartment building, buzzing myself in and heading up the stairs to his place. Once at his apartment, I find the spare key, letting myself in. I walk inside, dropping my bag on the table and slipping my shoes off.
 
“Will? Babe, are you home?” I ask, looking around.
 
“Stella?” Will’s younger sister, Annabelle, who he shares his apartment with, calls out. She walks out of her room, looking particularly cute today in a simple ensemble that consisted of leggings an oversized tee and denim.
 
“Hey, Annabelle. Is your brother around?” I ask, smiling at her before looking in the kitchen for something to drink. I quickly pour myself some vodka and down it quickly before making myself a gin and tonic.
 
“No, he’s at work, although he should be home soon. I know he gets off at some time around now.” She says, taking the drink I just made and taking a sip. Annabelle and I were close. It was almost like we were sisters. It was nice. Once finishing her sip, she adds on. “You’re more than welcome to wait around until he comes back. I have to leave for class soon, so you’ll be here alone, but you know.” She says with a shrug, going to the fridge and grabbing a bottled water, putting it in her bag.
 
I sigh some, taking a huge sip of my drink. “Mm okay…I’ll wait for him.”
 
Annabelle raises an eyebrow, “you okay?” She asks, looking at me.
 
“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine. You go to class, okay?” I say, smiling over at her.
 
She looks at me, giving me a look before shrugging. “Alright, I probably won’t be home later. I got invited to a friends place.”
 
“I’ll tell your brother.” I say, making a face at her. “Maaaake good choices.” I say, jokingly, pretending to do that thing mothers do.
 
Annabelle laughs and rolls her eyes. “Yeah yeah, I will.” She says, making a face back at me. “But yeah, make yourself at home, yeah?” She says, smiling as she fixes her bag over her shoulder.
 
“You know I will.” I say, smiling at her, “but seriously, have fun in class.”
 
“I’ll try.” She says, heading towards the door.
 
“That’s all I ask!” I call out to her ask she leaves, and as she leaves I can hear her laugh.
 
I smile some, finishing my drink before deciding to head towards Will’s room.
 
I open up the door to his room, smiling some as I look at how messy it was. I mean it wasn’t overly messy, just that cute kinda lived in messy. I look around at some of his things before I grab a book I had left here, and fall back on his bed, starting to read as I wait for Will to come back home. Hopefully he wouldn’t mind me showing up unannounced.
 
(Aaand insert Will here?)

Challenge 3: Old Hollywood Beauties. This challenge is all about the classical Hollywood era: from silent films to technicolor. Choose a movie starlet and recreate one of her looks.
 
Movie Starlet: Elizabeth Taylor
Explanation of the look: Elizabeth Taylor is known for her alluring sex appeal that she brought to the silver screen. This look is trying to create to simple, yet alluringly sexy looks of her characters in her roles in the movie Cat On A Hot Tin Roof, and Butterfield 8. This was created by a sleek and sexy lace slip and a simple pair of heels, which is what Elizabeth's characters are often seen wearing in these films.
 
Blah, I'm really unsure of how I feel about this set, but I tried?
 
Collab with @l-annelise-l @tania-l
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“Our team is getting ridiculously small,” Kayla said as she looked at the now two vacant beds in our room.
 
“What’s more ridiculous is that they wouldn’t even bother showing up for the shoots,” I add on from my spot on own bed, lazily flipping through a comic book.
 
“True, I don’t get why you’d go through the whole audition process if you’re not gonna be serious about it afterwards. And on national TV of all things,” she added, shuddering at the idea of something. Probably at the idea of being perceived as a quitter by all of America, which definitely these girls would be perceived.
 
Kayla and I were just briefed for the next shoot. I was trying not to think about it too much. I always found that over thinking it made me mess up. But before I can even consider thinking about the concept of the shoot, Ketzia’s head popped around the corner of our door.
 
“Hye-Ri’s here for you,” she said with a grin, leaving Kayla and I alone. I look up at her, and she looks back at me, and its obvious we’re both a little confused. We wait a moment before rushing downstairs.
 
Once we’re downstairs, it was weird to just see one of the world’s best models just standing there, waiting for us. And besides, I had just gotten so used to only being around the other model for the past two weeks.
 
“Hello girls,” she said as soon as we had made it down, giving each of us a one-armed hug as she held onto several objects in her other hand. “I figured since we were in such small numbers now it was time for a girls’ night, boost the morale a bit,” she explained before holding up the two boxed DVDs she had in her hand, “while still preparing you two for your shoot of course.”
 
“That sounds perfect,” Kayla said with a ridiculously huge smile on her face. It was almost as if she was like that happy kid on Christmas morning with that smile of heres. It was probably because of the fact that we would be spending the evening watching two classics of old Hollywood with one of the greatest supermodels of our time.
 
“I have a taxi waiting for us. We’re going to my hotel suite and have some mani-pedis as well. Who said everything had to be hard work?” she asked, winking at us before leading the way to the taxi. Kayla and I shared one more look, both still kind of in shock.
 
It didn’t take long for us to reach her hotel and as we stepped out I couldn’t help but be surprised by the people that were gathered outside, snapping pictures as soon as we had stepped out of the taxi. I froze for a second, trying to take in the attention that was being paid to us when I felt Hye-Ri grabbing hold of my arm.
 
“Yes, you’re famous. Let’s get inside” Hye-Ri said, seeming slightly amused by our reactions as we finally made it into the lobby and towards the elevators.
 
“Wow your room is breathtaking” I said as Hye-Ri held the door to her room opened for us, letting us into a room that was ridiculously huge. It was amazing and unbelievable.
 
“Pepa! Tell the massage people we’re here and please order some room service,” Hye-Ri said to what seemed to be her personal assistant as she removed her coat. “Girls, this is Pepa,” she added as the petite assistant greeted us with a hand shake.
 
A few minutes later we had installed ourselves in the Hye-Ri’s makeshift living room, an array of food at out disposal as we waited for the massage people to come.
 
“So which film do you want to see first?” she asked, holding up DVDs of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Gilda in her hands.
 
“I don’t mind watching the Elizabeth Taylor one first, I haven’t seen it in a while,” Kayla said after a minute or two. I smiled in agreement. It would probably be best for me if we watched the Elizabeth Taylor film first, since I would probably have spaced out otherwise, and not be able to pay enough attention.
 
I sit back, trying to tune into the movie, trying really hard to pay attention. I knew Hye-Ri wanted us to have fun, but I also knew deep down she wanted to make sure Kayla and I were ready for our photoshoots this week. We were the last two to this team, and we really needed to bring our A game.
 
“So..for this shoot, how should we try and act? Should we be more like the characters or embody the actress more?” I ask softly, as I watch the film. I mean I had watched Elizabeth Taylor films before, but I can’t say I’ve seen Cat On A Hot Tin Roof.
 
“Whatever you find more comfortable.” Hye-Ri says, “If you’re confident, it’ll come through in your performance and ultimately help you embody the Hollywood starlet.”
 
I nod some, making some mental notes. “I think I got it.” I say, smiling weakly. Honestly, I had been a little distracted this week, but this was a helpful distraction, spending the day with my team. They were good company.
 
“I think you’ll do a good job embodying her, Amelia.” Kayla says, smiling over at me. “Are you nervous ?”
 
I nod some, “Yeah, a little. I mean, I’ve been distracted this week… I’ll bring my A game, though. Promise.” I tell them.
 
“I know you will, Amelia.” Hye-Ri says, smiling over at me. “I know you both will. You’ve both done so well. I’m proud of both of you.”
 
“Well, only because we have such a great coach.” I say, smiling over at her.
 
“Yeah..you’ve really been a great coach.” Kayla adds, smiling at Hye-Ri as well.
 
“Thanks again for everything, really.” I say, looking back at the TV, and we watch the rest of the film intently.
 
“So who is ready for the next film?” Hye-Ri asks once the movie is done, clapping her hands some excitedly.
 
“I think I’m all set,” Kayla said after having grabbed one of the bowls of popcorn room service had brought up, having devoured a first one during the previous movie.
 
“You still have room for that?” I asked amusedly as I eyed the bowl. I wasn’t being judgmental or anything. I think it was just me being weird considering that I wasn’t all that hungry.
 
“You can’t watch movies without popcorn,” Kayla added before passing the bowl to me. I laughed softly, hopefully to ease her nerves a bit, before taking a handful and settling in for the next movie.
 
The minute the film started, Kayla’s eyes were glued to the screen. And that only became more intense the moment Rita appeared with that famous hair flip. I watched Kayla as she watched the movie, and I think as she’s studying her character, she starts to inadvertently mimicking certain poses and movements of Rita Hayworth throughout us watching. I could tell that she was trying to assimilate as much of Rita’s persona and presence on screen as she could. It was obvious that she was analysing every aspect of her demeanour, from the way she held her cigarette to her slow grin.
 
“You seem…enthralled to say the least,” Hye-Ri said amusedly after awhile of watching Kayla get caught up in the movie.
 
“I just love Rita Hayworth,” She said, making a slight face, as I laughed at her reaction. I wasn’t laughing at her. It was just obvious how she felt about the character.
 
“Clearly,” Hye-Ri said. “Just don’t let that take-over too much, make sure that there’s still a bit of you in your pictures. Being able to recreate the essence of Rita would make for a good picture but an amazing one would be a picture where your own personality still shines through.”
 
“I’ll keep that in mind, thanks,” Kayla said as she was obviously mulling over what Hye-Ri had said to her.
 
Hye-Ri lets us take all this in a moment, before finally speaking. “So who is ready for mani-pedis?” She asks, just as a team of professionals comes in.
 
Kayla and I exchange excited looks, before meeting our specific manicurists, and beginning the whole process.
 
“Now, feel free to choose whatever colors and anything else you want. Think of this as a chance to express yourself, give a bit of personality.” Hye-Ri adds, smiling as she gets decides to get the classic French manicure.
 
Kayla smiles some, looking at all the color choices. It was obvious she was excited about it all. I watch as she picks a nice red color. It was bold, but classic, which I think fit Kayla’s personality to a T.
 
I take a deep breath, looking back at my manicurist, looking over at the colors. This was supposed to be an expression of my personality. I look at some different colors, picking them up, and deciding against them. I finally just decide to go back to a classic, or at least classic to me, combination. I choose a black nail polish. It was usually the color I came back to. It was an unexpected classic, and a little bit mysterious, and I felt that was indicative of the type of person I was.
 
Once our mani/pedis are done, Hye-Ri looks over at us, giving us a kinda knowing look.
 
“What is it..?” Kayla asks, kind of sheepishly.
 
“Are you guys tired, or are you both up for some more fun?” She asks, getting up.
 
I raise an eyebrow, watching her. “I’m down for anything…. what would we be doing?” I ask, smiling.
 
“Yeah, I am too.” Kayla adds on, nodding excitedly.
 
“Well, go and get ready, girls. We’re going to go clubbing. Might as well let loose and have some fun after we’ve pampered ourselves.” Hye-Ri smiles, motioning for us to go and get ready. “I have some outfits picked out for you both to choose from. Go and have fun.” She says motioning towards her guest room. She smiles at us one more time before going to her room, obviously to get ready herself.
 
“Wow… this all just seems surreal.” I say, smiling as I kind of just take in the day that Kayla and I got to experience.
 
“I know… It all feels like a dream.” She says, smiling as she looks around Hye-Ri’s appointment some, before looking back at me. “I keep having to pinch myself.”
 
I laugh some, smiling, “Yeah, I do too…” I wait, smiling a bit more. “But come on, let’s go and get ready before we wake up from this dream, yeah?”
 
Kayla laughs, nodding. “But of course. Let’s go and keep on living this dream.”
 
And it's that same dream-like feeling that I entered into the challenge with a few day later. This all still felt so surreal, so unbelievable. But I knew, despite the surreal feeling, I was prepared, and ready for anything that came my way. I was sure of that.

[So.. polyvore didn't have the song I wanted to use :( But anyways, it's the song Carolyn by Zox, here's a link; http://youtu.be/saBIGWipWxY ]
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I sigh heavily, adjusting the binders in my arms to get my apartment keys out of my pocket. I finally fish they out and open up my door, letting out another heavy sigh as I close the door behind me. I drop my binders on my kitchen table and go and flop down on my bed, purse still in hand.
 
It had just been a really long day, which just kind of reflected the really long week I had had at work. But luckily, it was Friday, and therefore it was now the weekend. I had every intention of just kind of relaxing, since I really needed to after the week I had had. I mean, I hadn't had a bad week or anything, it was just a lot to had dealt with. There was a lot expected of me...
 
I sigh again, rolling over to hide my face in my pillow. Maybe I could just lie here for a bit. I close my eyes, expecting to take a quick nap, but that doesn't last long since my phone started to ring from inside my purse. I wait before I sit up, looking through my bag for my phone.
 
"Hello?" I say into the receiver, laying down again.
 
"Heeeey, Mailee." My friend Jessica says excitedly on the other end.
 
"Oh, hey Jess. What's up?" I ask, smiling some.
 
"Nothing much. I was just calling to see what you were up to tonight." She asks, obviously a little excited.
 
"Oh, uhm.. nothing really. I was just kind of planning on relaxing tonight. Why?"
 
"Weeeeell, my boooyfriend and I kind of wanted to have a nice rooftop dinner get together, and wanted to know if you were gonna be avaaailable to come."
 
"Oh, uhm.." I pause, looking down at my outfit. "Well, you'd need to give me some time to change out of my work clothes..?"
 
"So, is that a yes?" Jess asks, obviously excited. She knew I didn't really go out much. "I'm taaaaaking that as a yeees!"
 
I laugh weakly, "Yeah.. it is. Just, like I said, give me a bit to get into something cute, yeah?"
 
"But of course. Take all the time you need and stop by whenever." She pauses, smiling. "I'm excited now. This is gonna be fun!"
 
I nod, smiling a bit. "Yeah, I'm excited for it." I pause. "So.. I'll see you soon, yeah? Since I should probably go and get ready." I pause again. "It's not fancy right?"
 
"Oh, no, no.. it's pretty casual. Like I'm wearing jeans."
 
"Oh, okay, just thought I'd check." I pause, smiling. "I'll see you soon, Jess."
 
"But of course. See you soon, my dear!" She says before hanging up. I wait a moment before I get up, going to my closet to try and find something nice to put on for this roof top get together.
 
I go through a couple of different options before I decide on a simple cutout shoulder floral top and skinny jeans. I quickly go and change before I curl my hair a little bit, and redo my makeup. I tilt my head, looking at myself in the mirror. This would do.
 
I text Jess quickly to let her know I'm on my way over, before I do, indeed, head over to her place. Once there, I buzz myself in and walk p to her place. I knock on her door, waiting for her to answer. In a minute or two, she answers, a huge smile growing on her face when she sees me.
 
"Hey! Come in, come in!" She says, happily, waving me inside. "And I love your outfit, by the way."
 
"Oh, uh, thanks. I just kind of threw it together, I guess." I say, shrugging. 'But you, you look really nice too." I say, commenting on her simple, yet elegant ensemble of dark wash skinny jeans, a simple button down with some statement jewelry.
 
She makes a face. "Why thank you, but seriously, come in, join the fun upstairs." She says, motioning me inside again.
 
"Okay, okay, I'm going." I say, making a face back at her before I make my way inside and upstairs to the roof top. I look around, smiling at the set up. Jess always knew how to throw a party together. I'm sure that's why she worked in event planning, but seriously the roof top looked gorgeous.
 
I walk over to the railing, deciding to wait before mingling and take the opportunity to look out at horizon and kind of take in the view. I mean, this may not have been the Friday night I had been planning, but it was an amazing substitute.
 
[blaaah idk about this story/ending, but insert Chris here?]

January 25, 2013, No Event.
 
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I'm jolted awake by the sound of my phone vibrating on the desk. That was kind of the worst way to wake up this morning. I hadn't slept well last night, and it was probably due to the fact that I had gone out and gotten really drunk, and the sound of the phone vibrating on the hard surface was probably the worst thing for my headache.
 
I lie on my bed, just kind of letting my phone ring before I reach over and picking up the phone without looking at who is calling. I bring the phone to my ear, and close my eyes again as I lie my head back down on the pillow.
 
"Hello..?" I ask groggily into the phone.
 
"Oh, uh, did I wake you?" Mason's voice asks on the other end.
 
"Mm, yeah, but don't worry about it. I should be awake by now." I mumble, making myself more comfortable.
 
"Oh, okay.." Mason pauses. "Well, I just wanted to know if you were free... I haven't seen you since I got back, and it'd be nice to hang out again."
 
I force myself to sit up, since this whole getting comfortable thing isn't working. "Yeah, I'm free." I say simply, holding my head. I was starting to feel nauseous and I couldn't tell if it was because I was hungover, or if it was because I had been dreading seeing Mason again, and it was finally happening.
 
"Want to meet me outside in like.. fifteen minutes?" He asks, pausing. "I'll bring us coffee and we can go for a walk, yeah?"
 
"Okay.. that gives me enough time to get ready and stuff." I say softly. "Bring me a bl-"
 
He cuts me off. "Black coffee, but sweet. I know. I remember how you like it."
 
I smile weakly. I was kind of surprised he had remembered. I mean it had been over a month since he and I had hung out together. And even longer since he and I had gotten coffee together. "I'll see you soon, Mason, yeah?"
 
"Yeah...I'll meet you outside soon." He says as he hangs up the phone. I sigh, hitting end as well, before I throw my phone down in front of me on my bed.
 
Why had I just agreed to meet him? I mean, honestly, I wanted to see him, because deep down I knew I really liked him, but I don't think I was ready to have the conversation I knew he wanted to have. I wasn't exactly ready to talk about being in a relationship with him, or being in a relationship in general. I had kept myself distracted for too long and now I didn't really know how to deal with any of this. But I said I would go, and now I had to.
 
I wait another moment before I force myself to get up and out of bed. I run a comb through my hair, and throw on the first clean underwear, bra, and outfit I could find. It wasn't like I was trying to impress anyone. I slick on a little foundation and a few coats of mascara and decide I'm presentable enough to head outside and get this over with.
 
I grab my phone and some extra cash and shove them in my back pocket. The last thing I take are the keys to my dorm before I head out the door and head downstairs to meet Mason.
 
Once outside, I lean up against the wall, and wait. I close my eyes some, trying to ignore the nausea that washes over me. I mean, it should be expected since I had gotten really drunk last night. But honestly, I still wasn't sure if the nausea was from me being hungover or from being nervous to see Mason. I guess I would find out the minute I see him.
 
I keep my eyes closed, deciding it'll be nice to wait for him this way. It takes a few minutes before Mason shows up. I only know since he calls my name.
 
"Marah, hey!" He says, kind of excitedly. I open my eyes and see him walking over to me. He smiles some, and hands me one of the coffee.
 
"Thanks." I say, smiling weakly back at him before I take a sip of my coffee. "But yeah, hey yourself."
 
He smiles a bit before wrapping an arm around me in a one-armed hug. I half heartedly lean against him in response.
 
"How have you been? How was your break?" He asks, smiling a bit more before sipping his coffee.
 
I shrug, "It was busy...I pretty much worked through it all." I pause, sipping my coffee again. This was kind of exactly what I needed. Mason really did know how I took my coffee. And I think it was obvious now that the nausea was from seeing Mason, not from being hungover. "How about you..? How was seeing your family?"
 
A smile kind of grows on his face as he thinks about it. "It was really nice seeing all of them. I didn't realize I had missed them as much as I did when I was here."
 
I nodded some, "They must have been really excited to see you..."
 
He smiles even more, "Yeah, they were. It was a lot of fun to spend Christmas together." He pauses, looking over at me. "How did you spend Christmas?"
 
I shrug, "Alone. I watched movies and had irish coffee." I say, realizing how terrible that sounded. Mason didn't really know I didn't have a family, or anyone really.
 
"Oh..." is all he says. I can see him look over at me out of the corner of my eye. "Why didn't you tell me? You could have come home and celebrated with me..."
 
I shake my head. "Please don't feel sorry for me, Mason. I mean, we had only known each other a few months. We aren't dating. It's fine. I can deal with celebrating Christmas alone."
 
He opens his mouth to say something, but I cut him off. "Seriously. It's fine. I had a nice holiday filled with Tarantino films and whiskey. I promise you, I was fine."
 
He sighs, nodding. He looks down at his feet as we walk, waiting before he looks up and over at me. "I know this is probably inappropriate for me to say, but I missed you over break..." He pauses. "Like, I haven't been able to stop thinking about you, Marah. And how you haven't answered my question..."
 
"I know, I know...I just don't know how to answer you, okay?" I say, looking at him. "I like you, and I like you a lot, but I don't think you really want to be in a relationship with me. You haven't thought it over enough."
 
Mason stops walking and looks at me. I stop and look back over at him. I didn't really know what to say or what to think, but it doesn't take me long to figure out what is going t happen next. He wastes no time before leaning in and kissing me deeply. I instantly close my eyes and kiss him back.
 
We continue to kiss for awhile before Mason pulls my body closer to his. He deepens the kiss some, holding my body against his. We stay like this for awhile before he pulls away, looking at me.
 
I wasn't really sure what to say. I mean, I really I hadn't expected him to do anything like this. I thought he had wanted to talk about us being a couple, not to go back to hooking up. So... before I ruin anything, I'm just going to wait until he speaks first.
 
Mason looks at me, searching my face before he leans in and kisses me again. This time it's a gentle but passionate kiss. I kiss him back slowly, keeping close to him.
 
He pulls away after awhile, leaning his forehead against mine. "I just...I missed that. I missed how nice kissing you felt."
 
I bite my lip some, nodding. "I missed it too..." I say softly, locking my eyes with his. He waits another moment before kissing me again, keeping the kiss tender but loving.
 
I pull away first this time, smiling some as I look at him. He smiles back, running his hands down my back, and grabbing my ass as he pulls me closer.
 
"Do you want to get out of here?" He asks, smirking some.
 
I nod some, smirking as well. "I would love to.."
 
"Come on, then." He says, taking my hand and pulling me with him as he leads me back into the building.
 
I guess it was more important for us to get reacquainted physically, than to talk about where we stood. We could always figure out our relationship status another time....

Benjamin Jasper Welles, 45 - father - Ryan McPartlin
Adriana Lauren Welles, 44 - mother - Audrey Tautou
Willoughby ‘Will’ Austin Welles, 24 - brother - Arthur Lockhart
Annabelle Leigh Welles, 16 - Julija Steponaviciute

Challenge 2: Circus-Themed Editorial. You will get to pose with an animal. Nerves might get a hold of you, but try not to let it show in front of the camera.
 
♫ | Lions Roar - The Hush Sound
"We did not know, we could not go, the circus songs, just carried on..."
 
Animal: Zebra
 
_________________
 
I walk onto set, looking around at everyone as I pass by. It was weird to come here today and basically be walking into a zoo. Every which way I turned there was one animal or another be lead around by some trainer. It was so crazy to think. Never once did I even think there would be any chance I would be surrounded by lions, tigers and bears (oh my), when entering this competition. But now that I was here, and it was happening, I was kind of excited.
 
And that excited feeling was much better than the feeling of waking up sick this morning. I was trying not to think about it, but I had woken up feeling like hell. A migraine, a lightheadedness, weak limbs, the whole nine yards. I wasn’t about to let it show though. I had hidden a lot worse from people, and it was challenge day. I didn’t want to jeopardize anything.
 
So, I sucked it up and showed up, and was psyching myself up for the shoot, which would probably be a lot of fun, considering the theme and the animals. I was just going to keep my mind on that.
 
As I make my way over to the hair and make up chairs, I see Zhen Li. She was one of the other mentors here, and I know I should be competitive, and dislike her, but I had always admired her work as a model. She was strong, confident and always seemed to know what she was doing, even in chaotic situations.
 
She must have noticed me staring, since she slyly smiles at me and waves a bit. “Good morning, Amelia.”
 
“Morning, Zhen Li.” I say, trying to give her a confident smile back.
 
She slightly raises her eyebrow at me. “I hope you are ready for today’s photoshoot.”
 
“I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.” I say, giving a completely truthful answer. Waking up sick this morning won’t stop me from delivering a great shot.
 
“Good. I want my girls to be up against the best, so that means I expect everyone else in this competition to give their best.” She pauses, “And I’m sure the drive in you has only strengthened since someone from your team was eliminated, yes?”
 
I pause, nodding. “Well, yeah, of course it has.” I pause, “But don’t worry. I always give 110%, so your team will have some fierce competition in me.”
 
“Good, that’s what I like to hear.” She says, giving me a small smile. “The best of luck today.”
 
“Thank you, really.” I say, smiling, waving good bye before I head over to the make up chairs.
 
I sit down and to my pleasant surprise I find Kayla, another girl on Team Hye-Ri, sitting down next to me.
 
“Are you ready for today, Amelia?” She asks me happily after a minute or two, mostly so the make up artist can finish her look.
 
“I would say I’m ready, yeah.” I say, nodding some. “I mean, how can you not be ready with a theme like this you know?”
 
Kayla laughs some, “I totally get what you mean. The circus is always such an exciting thing you know? So how can you not be excited for this shoot?”
 
“My thoughts exaaaactly.” I say, smiling over at her.
 
“So, I saw you talking to Zhen Li. What was that about?”
 
“Oh, she just wanted to make sure I was bringing my A-game today. She wants her girls to have fierce competition.” I say with a slight shrug.
 
Kayla nods, “I guess that makes sense. Its like that idea of you wanting to compete against the best, so that way when you win you truly are the best.”
 
“Yeah, exactly. That’s what I thought too.” I say softly, nodding some.
 
There’s a moment of silence, mostly because I think we’re both letting that thought slowly sink in for us.
 
Kayla finally breaks the silence. “Do you know what animal you’re posing with?”
 
“Hye-Ri told me I would be posing with a zebra, so..” I say, shrugging. I mean, at least I wouldn’t have to worry about getting eaten. “What about you?”
 
“Oh? That should be interesting at least. I mean the stripes will probably make for interesting pictures you know?” She pauses, smiling over at me. “And I’m posing with a monkey.”
 
“Oh? That will definitely be fun, especially if its a little high energy monkey.”
 
“That’s what I was thinking. I just hope it doesn’t sit on my head and like pick at my hair for bugs or whatever.” She says, laughing some.
 
“Hey, that’ll make for an interesting picture at least!” I say, laughing as well.
 
“That’s certainly true.” She says, making a face at me. “But I think it’s almost my turn to go and i need to get in my outfit! So I’ll see you later. Best of luck, Amelia!”
 
“You too, Kayla! Go have some fun with that monkey!” I call out to her as she heads over to wardrobe.
 
I remain in my chair, just waiting for my hair and make up to be done. I take this opportunity to get myself in the zone and ready for my upcoming shoot. I wanted it to make sure to have fun with this, but also to remember to keep modeling. I think I could manage that, especially with a zebra.
 
Although the longer I sat in the make up chair the worst I was starting to feel. My body was starting to feel weak again, but I couldn’t let it show. I’d push through until we got back to the apartment and then I could pass out and sleep this feeling off. I could do it as long as I kept my mind focused on the task at hand.
 
Once out of make-up, I go and put on my outfit. I look at myself in the mirror, mostly to keep my mind elsewhere and not about the sick feeling i had. I kind of reminded myself of a ring leader, just without the hat. And I loved the coat on me. I think it made the whole look. And besides, red was always a color I felt good in. And the striped bodice was definitely to relate to the zebra. It wasn’t too much of a nod to the theme, but rather just enough of a nod to remain fashion-y as well as circus-y. I kind of loved it.
 
I’m brought out of my thoughts by hearing my name get called. “Amelia, you’re up!”
 
I nod slowly, keeping all negative thoughts or sick feelings out of my mind. This was my moment and I couldn’t mess it up.
 
I walk over to set, smiling when I see the zebra there. He was really cute and apparently named Buster. He shakes his head once I get close to him, kind of acknowledging my presence. I smile a bit more, petting him. “Well hello to you too.” I say before looking back at the photographer.
 
Hye-Ri is standing next to him and smiles when she sees me. “Are you ready, Amelia?”
 
I nod, “I’m ready for this, really.”
 
“Good. Now remember, this is all about confidence. Make sure that shines through in your posing and your photos, okay?” She says, giving me a nod. I knew she was counting on me and I couldn’t let her down.
 
I smile, giving her a slight nod. “Okay, confidence, got it.”
 
I close my eyes, and take a deep breath to keep away the sickness. And I was kind of psyching myself up one last time for this challenge. I open my eyes after a minute or two, glancing over at the photographer and giving him a nod before I strike my first pose.
___________
 
@l-annelise-l @ingrid @tania-l
I included all of your characters briefly. Let me know if I portrayed them okay and if you want me to change anything :)

Challenge 1: Iconic Movie Costumes. It's all about showing off the garment. Movement and fluidity is encouraged, be creative.
 
Movie: Cabaret (1972)
Director: Bob Fosse
Costume Designer: Charlotte Flemming
Character: Sally Bowles
 
Uuugh, I don't know how I feel about this. This is my first ever doll set, so...
_________________
 
I keep my eyes closed as the makeup artist applies my makeup for this first challenge shoot. The longer I waited to get in front of the camera, the more nervous I seemed to be getting.
 
I woke up this morning completely ready for this challenge. I wasn't nervous at all, and I was all ready to take my photos. I had chosen my character right after we were told about the challenge. I've always identified with Cabaret, and Sally Bowles in some way. I mean, granted, I'm not growing up in the time of the rise of Nazis, but I related to Sally's bohemian artistic life style. I was a crazy bohemian artist back home in Boston, and in the past that kind of lifestyle had gotten in the way of my relationships like it did with Sally's. It just seemed like a fitting choice.
 
But the second I got on set, and saw my outfit I started to get nervous. For some reason, seeing that outfit hung up for me made all of this real. And this whole experience seemed to click with me. I mean...it wasn't like I hadn't modeled before. I had modeled before, but something about this being a competition made me nervous. I was just psyching myself out.
 
Once the makeup artist is finished, I open my eyes and look at myself in the mirror. I loved my makeup, it was perfect... Now all I had to do was put on my outfit, and I would be Sally Bowles, the cabaret singer.
 
I get up and out of my chair, thanking the make up artist. I walk over to wardrobe, carefully putting on my outfit. Once I put it on, I tilt my head slipping my bowler hat on to complete the look.
 
I start to practice my posing in the mirror, trying to capture to essence of Sally Bowles, but still remembering that I'm modeling. After a few poses, however, I notice there are a few poses I should avoid since I'd most likely end up flashing the camera, and in turn the judges. I guess that's what I get for choosing to be a girl in the cabaret.
 
I sigh softly, walking over to a waiting area near the set. I smile, waving some at Kayla, who is one of my teammates.
 
"Well, I feel frumpy now." She says with a slight laugh.
 
I laugh some too, shaking my head, carefully sitting down and crossing my legs to make sure I don't flash anyone even when sitting down. "Well, you don't have to worry about flashing anyone." I say, making a face as I pull up on my stockings some. I just wanted to make sure everything was perfect.
 
"That's one way to get noticed." Kayla says, which only just makes me laugh.
 
"That's true.. but I certainly don't want to be /that/ girl." I say, laughing a bit more.
 
Kayla and I sit there, talking for a bit. We kind of keep the conversation light, and it kind of keeps my mind preoccupied so I don't have to worry or get too nervous about the upcoming photoshoot.
 
After a bit, Kayla's name is called and she goes and gets her photos taken, which kind of just leaves me alone to think. I sit there, psyching myself up and maybe psyching myself a little bit out. I look down, playing with my stockings as I wait for my name to be called.
 
Finally I hear my name called, and I take a deep breath, letting it out slowly as I stand up and head on over to my set - a simple set up with a black chair in the middle.
 
I feel a little bit more at ease when i see Hye-Ri standing there. She smiles a little bit when I step on set.
 
"You look pretty ready for this." She says, nodding.
 
I let out a quick breath, nodding. "Yeah, as ready as I'll ever be, I guess. " I say, shrugging some.
 
"You guess?" She says, raising an eyebrow at me. "We can't have you second guessing yourself, Amelia."
 
"I know, I know...I think this is all just hitting my now. Like that I'm here, you know?" I say, taking another deep breath and letting it out slowly.
 
"Well, not to be harsh or anything, but get used to it. You're here and you should be ready to compete." She says with a nod.
 
I nod slightly, "I know.. I'm ready, I promise. It all just kind of hit me at once, but once I get in front of the camera I'll be fine."
 
Hye-Ri nods, smiling some, "Well, get out there and show me what you've got, Amelia."
 
I nod some, giving her a slight thankful nod before I head out in front of the camera. I give the photographer a slight nod to let him know I'm ready for him.
 
I place myself down on the chair, getting into my first pose, and the second the camera does its first click, I feel it. I fluidity move into the first pose to the next, and as shot after shot is taken, the more confident I start to feel, and the more ready I become for this competition. I was ready.
______________________
 
I apologize about that ending, I wasn't really sure how to end my story, but ta da?
 
@tania-l @l-annelise-l
I included your characters, let me know if I portrayed them okay.