Ororo's Ghost Story III, part 3

[Oracle]

The Ballroom

Zach's laughter was infectious - the way he grabbed his chest like he'd never heard anything funnier. She couldn't help but smile widely. They laughed together some more about her mother's antics with younger men. And it was nice. He asked her then about how it was clear she didn't want anything to do with modeling, and she was more open about it with him than she had ever been with anyone. She said the thing she knew deepest in her heart, that no matter what they did to her with makeup and clothes, that it would never be enough.

“No, of course not,”

Her eyes flicked to Zach, who was now leaning against the window so he was facing her. He didn't make a polite comment like, "Of course it will! A little plastic surgery and you'll be brand new!" like she was used to hearing.

“We can’t fix something that isn’t broken.”

She blushed deep red, the way he was looking at her, and he seemed sincere. And she wanted to believe he was being truthful. After all, her mother wasn't there, so he wasn't just talking to her to get some connection or contract. Right? He leaned his back against the window so he could face the party, and he gestured for her to as well. She sighed, but did as he asked. He pointed out all the models in the room. Glamourous Ava, fierce Jackie, exuberant Vivica, elegant Morgaine, icy Ashley. They were like barbie dolls, each with perfect bodies, clothes, hair and makeup.

"And each one of them is beautiful, in their own unique way. Just as you are.”

Oh, there it was, the "you're pretty on the inside, Zizi" comment... He was looking at her again, so she turned her sights away from the party.

“Well, lets be fair. They’re all more glamorous than you are. And much more confident, to be sure. But you aren’t unattractive. I mean, I’ve only been telling you that since I met you. So to me, hearing you say it’s ridiculous, or somehow visibly apparent that you can’t make it as a model.... no, I don’t think it’s your looks that are holding you back, Zizi.”

She felt a tear tug at the corner of her eye as he said that. She had wanted for so long to hear that from someone - her mother especially. But somehow, hearing him say it, meant even more to her.

"Do you really think so?"

“If you think you aren’t appealing enough to be successful in this industry, that’s a self-fulfilling prophecy, just as if you thought you weren’t smart enough to organize your non-profit. It’s a limiting mindset, and self-sabotage.”

He took two glasses from a passing tray, and handed her one. She took it gratefully, taking a large gulp of the champagne. She'd always taken it for granted that she wasn't pretty enough. Everyone always referred to her as "plain". Her mother always talked to people about "what could they do about Elizabeth?"

“If I were you I’d play the hand I was dealt, and take advantage. It’s got nothing to do with being grateful for your privilege, like it’s the magically blessed thing everyone else assumes it is. Gods know my own privilege was a curse, until Sally came along.”

He took a drink, clearly his past not a happy one, and she put a hand comfortingly on his arm.

"I'm sorry..."

“But why not use what resources you have, to turn your life into something you can enjoy, or find rewarding? Imagine how much money and support you could drum up for your charity, if you had the fame, and the connections your mother is trying to make for you. Imagine using that platform for the greater good. Charities are always trying to rope in celebrity spokespeople to bring awareness to their cause. If you made an effort, made some friends here, you could bring lots of powerful people together, and really make a difference.”

She was a little bit stunned. She'd never considered using her mother's ambition to her advantage. She blinked, then took another drink.

"I never thought of it that way."

If she had the resources to do what she wanted on her own, she wouldn't have to do what her mother said, she could be out in the world, doing what she wanted.

"But everyone's always said how plain I am..."

 

[Orion]

Casa de Spectra — Crystal Ballroom

Zizi blushed deeply, when he told her she didn’t need ‘fixing’, because she wasn’t broken. Then her gaze locked with his, like she was searching for sincerity. He held her eye contact for a moment, then turned, gesturing for her to look at the crowd of party-goers, and she did, reluctantly. He highlighted all the different shades of beauty in the room, none even remotely the same, each with their own unique appeal, and then he included her as well, not out of charity, but as he explained, because she was attractive in her own way too. Maybe not as glamorous as the others, but then, SHE was the one putting the limit on it, and he pointed that out, kindly. He told her what he’d do, if he were in her position, and expressed his understanding that just because a person was born with wealth and privilege didn’t mean their lives were automagically awesome. He knew from the experience of his own nightmarish upbringing.

Zizi: I’m sorry...

She said, and reached for his arm. He looked at her for a moment, a bit surprised at her genuine gesture. It was rare that any woman touched him with no ulterior motive of seduction, no intent to manufacture intimacy. Not that he minded that kind of contact, because he liked getting laid as much as any guy, but sometimes he wondered if they were all just using him, to get off or get ahead, and it was a lonely kind of feeling that sex never quite satisfied, even if it made him forget for a while. Yet Zizi wasn’t hitting on him, and for once, he felt honestly comforted. He gave her a warm smile, and then suggested that maybe she could play her situation to her advantage, and use the connections she’d make to benefit her charity.

Zizi: I never thought of it that way.

“Well we both know your mother’s not going to give this up, so you might as well make it work for you.”

Zizi: But everyone's always said how plain I am...

“Let me guess, by ‘everyone’, you’re referring to all the designers, cosmetologists, and plastic surgeons your mother talks to? Yeah, I’m not surprised. Zizi, it’s their job to improve you. They have to make themselves seem necessary. If they didn’t, your mother wouldn’t want to pay them for their services. And the more help you ‘need’, the more money they make.”

He replied, flagging down the waiter who had a tray of hor d’oeuvres.

“Bruschetta? Oh yes!”

He said happily, sampling the little slice of bread slathered with olive oil, garlic, basil, tomato, bacon, and mozzarella. It was so good he grabbed another and told the waiter not to leave so soon.

“Ziz,”

He tried to say her name in between bites. He licked his lips as he swallowed so he could speak.

“You gotta try these.”

 

[Oracle]

The Ballroom

“Well we both know your mother’s not going to give this up, so you might as well make it work for you.”

She smiled, a bit wryly, knowing that he was right about her mother.

"It's not hard to see how she landed my father - I'm sure she just wore him down."

But still, there was one problem with letting her mother have her wish, and make her into something she didn't exactly want to be: the fact that her whole life she had been described as "the plain girl".

[qutoe=Zach]“Let me guess, by ‘everyone’, you’re referring to all the designers, cosmetologists, and plastic surgeons your mother talks to? Yeah, I’m not surprised. Zizi, it’s their job to improve you. They have to make themselves seem necessary. If they didn’t, your mother wouldn’t want to pay them for their services. And the more help you ‘need’, the more money they make.”[/quote]

It made sense, when he said it. Just as it sounded believable when her mother or all these other people - "everyone" - told her she was hopeless. Zach signaled to a waiter who was passing hors d'oeuvres.

“Ziz. You gotta try these.”

She hesitated, then took one herself and nibbled on it.

"Oh, it's soooo good!"

She smiled at him. Her mother would kill her if she knew she was eating in public. But right then, she didn't care. Her mother could scream at her all she wanted. She was enjoying herself, thanks to Zach.

"Zach-"

She blushed a little again.

"I really appreciate how kind you're being to me."

She hesitated again, struggling with what she wanted to ask.

"If I do decide to do what my mother wants me to. As a means to an end- Would you- Would you take my picture, like she wanted?"

She looked down, a bit embarrassed to have asked him.

"I would pay you, of course. I'm not asking for a handout. It's just- you're nice."

 

[Valkyrie]

The Ballroom

Ashley got a drink – a real drink – and stood at the bar, surveying the party. She had no interest in making small talk with dumb ass buyers or wannabes. But that didn’t mean she couldn’t be entertained. She watched Ava give some douche only a fraction of what he deserved. Scumbags like him were why she rarely bothered with men. Things were so much easier with women, and they generally didn’t act like they owned you.

Speaking of…Captain Caveman went over to where Ava had moved, and looked like he was trying to be charming. Ava, to her credit, did not seem to be in the mood for it, and soon he was sent on his way. But she noticed that Ava kept stealing glances his way. He must be fucking amazing in bed. She was going to go over there but then Sharon and Jackie joined her, so she decided Ava was in good enough hands if she was upset. And there would be time to console her later.

Zach was chatting up that unattractive little heiress. Sometimes he was too nice for his own good. But still, with all that money, she could be made to be passable. And if you fucked her on a bed of money every night, it could make up for a lot. Maybe Ash should throw her hat in the ring, she considered thoughtfully. Someone like that would do anything for a little attention, no matter where it came from. And she could do with a new wardrobe, new car, new diamonds. Zach was staring at her, so she gave him the finger and turned away.

Which is how she saw Morgaine entered the room, a murmur like electricity moving through the crowd at her presence. But she wasn’t mingling; she was making a beeline for Cameron King.

“Shit.”

Sharon was heading over there to do damage control, she saw. But Ashley hoped she punched that self-centered egotistical asshole in his smug fucking face.

 

[Sally Spectra]

The Crystal Room

<< A world of possibilities was opening up for Zizi, as she talked with Zach Armani. But even as the young girl began to smile, knowing, FEELING The lesson that beauty's where you find it, another show of sorts, begins to unfold, as Morgaine struts into view, and makes her way right over to Cameron King.>>

<< The atmosphere in the Crystal Room was glamorous, and now, there was electricity, as all eyes began to turn and watch the confrontation unfold, with Sharon the closest to the epicenter, ready to intervene...but only if absolutely necessary >>

<< The climax >>

Morgaine: I didn't have a chance to THANK you for your "KIND WORDS..."

<< A beat....>>

<< SLAP!>>

<< The slap that was heard around the mega mansion, and the WORLD, as Cameron went careening into a table>>

Morgaine: Keep my family's name OUT OF YOUR MOUTH, do you understand me!?

<< And as Sharon quickly gets in Morgaine's path, stopping her from advancing or escalating, and urgently talking her down...>>

<< The announcer's voice, a woman with a posh british accent, could be heard over the sound system, as the music changed.>>

Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome your hostess, Madame Sally Spectra!

<< Clapping is heard as everyone greats their smiling hostess, who was wearing one of her own designs, which flattered her figure, showing off her legendary cleavage, and just how well kept she was! her firey mane of hair, her accessories, all perfectly styled.>>

I thank you.

<< She nods to everyone, as a server quickly brings her a drink.>>

I trust everyone is enjoying themselves?

Ashley: Ohhhh, we DEFINITELY are.

<< as several individuals are still buzzing about Morgaine's power slap across Cameron's face.>>

<< Sally looks over at Cameron.>>

Tut TUT!

How many times do I have to tell that boy to stop playing with the HORNETS NEST!

Cassandra: He'll be fine, it's not the first time that BIG MOUTH of his has been dealt with...in a way other than what HE would like.

<< Cassandra and Andre were flanking Sally.>>

EVERYONE, << speaking in that loud voice she was known for, and beckoning them all to come closer>>

I'd like you to meet my protege, ANDRE'

<< His name was Andrew, but like so many other "strays" Sally had taken in, he'd been given a new name, one that she felt was more befitting of the person she saw, even if they didn't see themselves.>>

Fashion, like LIFE, comes and goes in CYCLES. Nothing stays the same, what's old is new, and everything comes around again...with subtle changes.

I won't be around forever...and this world NEEDS people who understand that fashion is MORE than just...

<< looking at the ready to wear boys with a "fake smile">>

...DOLLAR SIGNS.

Like a scribe that weaves a tale, or one of the sister fates, spinning her tapestry...we boys and girls in the rag trade HAVE to do our part to ensure that ELEGANCE and STYLE remain apart of fashion.

<< she pushes Andre forward a bit, so that everyone can get a good look at him, while Sally smiles.>>

I'm proud to say, ladies and gentlemen, that Andre is a man who understrands this...and will follow in my foot steps.

There will be some SURPRISES on the runway in tomorrow's show.

<< Stepping next to Andre, Sally wraps her arm around him>>

Keep your eyes PEELED!

<< and as she gives him a squeeze and a shake, Sally Spectra officially introduces Andre to some of the most important people in the industry, just like she promised, giving him a full voiced endorsement.>>

<< Now, like every parent giving their child that PUSH as he or she rides a bike for the first time, Sally watches, to see if Andre will take OFF, or fall the ground.>>

Let the drinks flow! Eat, drink, BE MERRY , my dear guests...enjoy the night, as only we can...and TOMORROW, you will witness a return to ELEGANCE in the world of fashion!

<< Clapping, cheers, and whistles, and soon, the party is in full swing.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

The Crystal Room

<< A little back and forth. Cameron had no shame, and was as smug and disrespectful as always. She wanted to knock all his teeth out, right then and there...or take him some place far away...some place cold, dark and SCAREY that he could not escape...but for now....>>

I didn't have a chance to THANK you for your "KIND WORDS..."

<< A beat....>>

<< SLAP!>>

<< The slap that was heard around the mega mansion, and the WORLD, as Cameron went careening into a table>>

Keep my family's name OUT OF YOUR MOUTH, do you understand me!?

<< She lunged, but Sharon was right there in the way, holding Morgaine back.>>

Sharon: Okay ALRIGHT, Morgaine...you've given him what he deserves, now that's enough! Remember where we are!

<< Morgaine restrained herself, and stepped back from Sharon. Putting her hands up in a surrender stance>>

It's okay, Shar....I know...I'm fine now.

He just needed to be put in his place...and if he thought being HERE was going to protect him?

He thought WRONG.

<< She turned on her high heel, and walked away from "ground zero", passing Ashley, and without missing a beat, she and Ashley HIGH FIVE each other, and for the first time, in a long way, Ashley, and Ava catch a....satisfied SMILE forming across Morgaine's face.>>

<< Morgaine could have left the party then and there, for her, this moment was such a RELEASE for her, nothing else could make it better....until...>>

<< The announcer's voice, a woman with a posh british accent, could be heard over the sound system, as the music changed.>>

Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome your hostess, Madame Sally Spectra!

<< she turns toward the main entrance to see Sally, with Andre on her arm, and Cassandra on the other side.>>

<< Sally always knew how to change the current of the tide, and carry someone away with her energy, and as the music changed, and everyone saw her, with that big smile, Morgaine couldn't help but feel the moment, and join the others in welcoming their glamorous hostess.>>

<< She was now standing alongside Ashley again.>>

I trust everyone is enjoying themselves?

Ashley: Ohhhh, we DEFINITELY are.

<< Morgaine quickly picked up two flutes of Champagne from a passing tray, handing one to Ashley with a smirk on her face.>>

<< Sally had an idea of what just occurred, but she was not about to let anything or anyone spoil this moment.>>

<< She introduced them to a tall, intense looking man named Andre.>>

<< He was one of Sally's newer "Strays." His eyes suggested that he was a thoughtful, sweet guy, and according to Sally, a designer too! Artists always were passionate, and often tempermental. She wondered if that was the case with Andre, even as Ava was drawing near for a closer look, as only SHE could Jackie and the others were closer as well.>>

<< Sally told them there would be surprises on the runway tomorrow, which meant that some of the models would likely be wearing some of Andres designs too. If that was the case, this guy may not know just how LUCKY he was. Sally was giving him one HELL of a boost, and for the models that wore his outfits- Ava certain to be among them- it would be a plum as well.>>

<< Already the journalists were circling, getting shots of him with Sally, and Cameron, who managed to recover from his little "spat" with Morgaine, seemed to be eyeing Andre as well.>>

<< rolling her icy violet eyes, she looked at Ashley.>>

There's a lot of hungry eyes tonight.

<< She noticed Ashley eyeing Jackie, and even Zach.>>

But I'm sure you already knew that.

Something tells me this weekend is going to be VERY interesting.

<< Oh if Morgaine ONLY knew.>>

<< A low rumble of thunder rolled in the night skies outside the and around the mansion.>>

<< It was Morgaine's turn to formally meet Andre.>>

<< She approached him.>>

Hello.

<< Hugging him, and an air kiss>>>

Welcome to the family.

 

[Artemis]

Spectra Mansion- The Crystal Room

:: Jackie and Ava watched as the confrontation between Cameron and Morgaine unfolded.::

:: She caught a glimpse of Ashley and Zach , and even with them being where they were, they, along with Ava, Vivica, and even Sharon seemed to know this was a long time coming.::

:: Cameron may have been a powerful presence in the industry, but even an elephant can be taken down by a pride of lions that have the energy, the coordination and the willingness.::

:: Cameron seemed to delight in Morgaine's rage, until she seemed like she'd back down, and then...::

::SLAP!::

:: She damn near took his head off. ::

OOH!

:: Jackie's eyebrows lifted, and her hazel eyes widened in that moment. The slap was STRONG.::

:: Sharon stepped in to keep Morgaine from moving in to tear Cameron apart.::

As my momma used to say, don't let your mouth...write a check your ass can't cash!

:: It was telling that NO ONE seemed terribly moved to help Cameron pick himself up after that. What would have been utter humiliation for anyone else did not seem to take him down a notch at all. THAT was astonishing to Jackie, and something that could prove....PROBLEMATIC for all of them in the future.::

:: Morgaine and Ashley high fived each other, and Jackie smirked.::

Morgaine forgot to mention one little tidbit on the cable car: Piss her off, PAY THE CONSEQUENCES.

:: She and Ava laughed softly a bit. She glanced over to Zach, who was chatting with Zizi. The two of them had watched that spectacle unfold as well.::

:: Soon, all eyes were on Sally Spectra, as she arrived, looking sleek and glamorous in one of her own designs. Jackie joined in the welcome and came in closer as Sally introduced Andre'.::

:: Before the journalists, who were already snapping photos, and the ready-to-wear boys would have their way with him, he was formally introduced to the KMA family. He'd been present before, apparently, but Sally had always kept him away from them on this level. Now she was letting him in, allowing him to make connections with them as he had made all those years ago.::

:: For Jackie, she felt empathy for him. He looked genuine, and she understood what it was like being the NEWBIE to the group. Zach had been so welcoming, and supportive to her , helping her to reach Sharon. She would pay that forward. She also wanted Sally to see that she was definitely a FIT for the KMA culture and family. ::

:: Soon, it was Jackie's turn greet him.::

Hi, handsome.

:: She said as she held both his hands for a moment, ::

Sally's disciple, huh?

:: before gently hugging him, and kissing him on the cheek.::

I'm new to the family myself.

We'll make this fantastic voyage together.

:: As she pulled away, she winked at him.::

:: And with Sally's order, the party was now in full swing. Drinks, food, dancing, networking...lusting....::

<< and so much more than any of them could possible know...as they were ALL being watched in this moment.>>

 

[Ruby]

Casa de Spectra – The Crystal Room



Whiny Rich Man: “So, Sally allows animals to be present at this grand affair now?”

:: Cassandra turned from the table and looked into the buyers’ face. He had a look of distain and he was looking at Maxie. Cassandra stooped down and picked up the small animal. ::

“She is my emotional support animal. I get anxious in crowds.”

:: Cassandra watched as he wrinkled his nose in disgust. ::

Whiny Rich Man: “Well, if one of Spectra’s employees has a disability, maybe that person shouldn’t be working at these events.”

*stiffly*: “Have a nice night.”

:: Cassandra turned on her heel and walked away, cradling Maxie in her arms. The nerve of that man! She was then distracted by Morgaine walking – no, STALKING – past her towards one Cameron King. ::

Oh no!

:: Cassandra turned and watched as Morgaine approached Cameron. She held herself together, ready to intervene if need be. Cameron and Morgaine had it out, with Morgaine SLAPPING him and Cassandra was about to go over and do damage control when she saw Sharon holding Morgaine back. Cassandra turned and noticed Sally and Andre so she went over to Sally’s side and stood there. ::

Sally: “Tut TUT! How many times do I have to tell that boy to stop playing with the HORNET’S NEST?!”

“He'll be fine, it's not the first time that BIG MOUTH of his has been dealt with...in a way other than what HE would like.”

:: Cassandra stood there, scratching Maxie on the head. She grinned as Drew finally had his moment in the spotlight. ::

Sally: “Let the drinks flow! Eat, drink, BE MERRY , my dear guests...enjoy the night, as only we can...and TOMORROW, you will witness a return to ELEGANCE in the world of fashion!”

:: With that, the party was in full swing and Cassandra made her way over to Zizi and Zach. She probably should’ve gone over to Cameron first to see if he was okay, but she already knew that he was okay. ::

“Hi! How are your rooms? Is there anything I can help you with?”

:: A waiter passed by, so Cassandra set Maxie down and took the offered flute of champagne. ::

“Thank you.”

 

[Titan]

The Ballroom

Andrew straightened his tie as he prepared to enter the ballroom on Sally’s right. His dark suit was perfectly tailored, not a hair out of place. He was a bit amazed still at the reception that Sally commanded, the spectacle of it all – it was a show, that was for sure, and it left him a little in awe of her. But his surprise was to grow, as Sally introduced him to the group at large, in that flamboyant way she had. She had made good on her promise to introduce him – she could have kept him in the shadows, but she didn’t. He looked at her as she spoke with pure gratitude on his face.

”EVERYONE, I'd like you to meet my protege, ANDRE…I won't be around forever...and this world NEEDS people who understand that fashion is MORE than just DOLLAR SIGNS.”

It was a little more disconcerting than he had expected, being the center of attention, even if it only was for a moment.

”I'm proud to say, ladies and gentlemen, that Andre is a man who understands this...and will follow in my footsteps. There will be some SURPRISES on the runway in tomorrow's show.

Sally put her arm around him, and he reciprocated with his arm around her ample waist. He gave her a kiss on the cheek.

“Thank you, Sally. You are an amazing woman.”

She went on to introduce him personaly around, and Andrew worked hard to remember names despite the whirlwind of it all. Now that Sally had officially opened things up, the party really got going, the champagne flowing. Morgaine Carole approached them, giving him a hug and an air kiss. She was THE supermodel, and the fact that she knew who he was was an amazing feeling.

Hello. Welcome to the family.

“Thank you very much, Ms. Carole. It’s a real pleasure to meet you. No one wears Sally’s designs like you do – as is very evident tonight. You look wonderful, if you don’t mind me saying so. And I know Sally is ecstatic to have you here this weekend.”

The new girl, Jackie, also approached him to welcome him. He noticed that Cassandra was right: both her size and skin tone would work perfectly with the designs she was going to wear.

Hi, handsome. Sally's disciple, huh? I'm new to the family myself. We'll make this fantastic voyage together.”

“I wouldn’t miss it.”

He grinned broadly at her, her kind gesture genuinely received.

“I’m looking forward to working with you – I’m really excited to see the designs we have on you. I don’t know if you’d be interested, but I’d love to design something especially for you sometime.”

As they parted she winked at him, and he raised his eyebrows in surprise. She was going to go far in this business, he could tell.

 

[Persephone]

The party started out flat but as soon as Ava saw Morgaine making a bee line to Cameron she knew it was about to become interesting. Standing along side Jackie, Ava lifted her glass of champagne to her lips as her eyes stayed glued on the encounter. Just as she was about to take a sip, CRACK, Moragine delivered a slap that vibrated throughout the room.

Jackie: OOH!

"Shit."

Ava started laughing.

Jackie: As my momma used to say, don't let your mouth...write a check your ass can't cash!

"I really hope Vivica got that on livestream."

But before the situation could escalate any further, Sharon stepped in then Sally made her grand entrance. She defused the situation and began to introduce everyone to her protege 'Andre'. Ava's brows lifted looking at the man, tilting her head as her midnight eyes scanned down his body evaluating him.

"Well, well, well..."

He was handsome to say the least. A little small for her taste, but suites can hide a lot. She would bet on Cameron's bruised ego that he had a rock hard body under that perfectly tailored attire. A smirk tugged along her lips as Sally instructed everyone to enjoy themselves and continue to have a good time. Morgaine introduced herself to Andrew, then Jackie. As Jackie stepped away, Ava finally approached with a predatory look in her eyes and a salacious smile to match.

"Pleasure to finally meet you, Andrew."

Ava leaned in and gave Andrew a cheek to cheek kiss. But before moving back after the second kiss, she stayed by his ear.

"If you need me to come in for a private fitting....."

Ava pulled back to look into his eyes, her playful smirk carrying to them.

"I'd be more than happy to help."

Her smirk broadened and turned into a full smile as she placed her hand against his firm chest in a friendly manner.

"Have fun tonight, handsome. You deserve to let loose before the stresses of the show tomorrow."

Giving him a wink as she gently patted his chest, she moved past him and to the bar to grab something a little stronger to drink.

 

[Orion]

Casa de Spectra — Crystal Ballroom

Zach's eyes found Ashley again. Gods, she looked sexy, leaning against the bar, looking around the party like she owned the place. As he drained another glass of champagne, she caught him staring. He didn't look away. He wanted her to catch him. He raised an eyebrow at her. She gave him the finger. A smirk twisted his lips.

Playing hard to get again? Tentatrice [Temptress].... You know I can't leave a challenge unanswered....

Zizi: Zach- -

"Yes?"

Zach took another slice of bruschetta from the waiter's tray, as he looked at her inquisitively.

Zizi: I really appreciate how kind you're being to me.

"Just don't tell anybody. It hurts my street cred."

He replied with a wink, and a goofy, appreciative smile.

Zizi: If I do decide to do what my mother wants me to. As a means to an end- Would you- Would you take my picture, like she wanted?

He nodded as he chewed his hors d'oeuvre. He wouldn't mind doing a photo shoot with her, if that was what she wanted to do.

Zizi: I would pay you, of course. I'm not asking for a handout. It's just- you're nice.

He smiled softly.

"I'll tell you what. You take my usual fee, and make it the first donation for your charity."

He said, inspired by her selflessness, and the fact that she called him 'nice'. He didn't usually get into all that, but it wouldn't hurt to work a couple of hours for free. Why not, for a good cause? Zizi certainly seemed happy. Maybe a little good karma this weekend would come back to him. He smiled winsomely.

Behind him, there was a loud slapping sound, and a gasp in the crowd. Cameron King stumbled back into a table, and Morgaine was lunging after him like a wildcat. Sharon stepped in, so Zach didn't have to, and then the very next second, the announcer called Sally in. It couldn't have happened at a better time. Zach clapped with everyone else, and then also whistled appreciatively when Sally appeared. Sally introduced Andre, her designer protege, and then mentioned the show, and told everyone to have fun. Morgaine, Jackie, and Ava went over to greet Andre almost immediately. Zach stayed with Zizi, because he was sure he'd get a chance to talk to the guy eventually, and there was no sense in overwhelming him. Cass made her way over, asking them how their rooms were, and if there was anything she could help them with.

"I can't speak for Zizi, but I'm quite pleased so far."

He replied. He was thinking about maybe getting some whiskey to replace the champagne, but he wasn't about to ask Cass to do that, first of all because she wasn't his waitress, and secondly, he was planning on using his desire of 'getting a real drink' as his excuse for turning up at the bar, where Ashley was. He didn't excuse himself just yet, though, because he noticed Ava was already headed that way. Timing was important.

 

[Seer]

<< The night closes on a high note.>>

<< A lingering image of Zach. Zizi. Ava. Jackie. Ashley. Morgaine. Vivica. Sharon. Cameron. Alek. Cassandra. Andre. Sally. >>

<< And finally, a slow moving, 360 view of everyone in the Crystal room, party as only people at their level could.>>

<< But as we move away from the beautiful people, and the dream like view of them all...we realize that the point of view of the party now belongs to someone else! >>

<< The person is watching them all from a high balcony, in the shadows, sight unseen.>>

<< These people may be beautiful, glamorous, without in the care in the world TONIGHT, but before the weekend is over, those smiles will be replaced with looks of terror. Those laughs will become screams and cries, and those beautiful bodies will be savaged, broken, and bloodied.>>