Ororo's Ghost Story III, part 3

[Seer]

Spectra Mansion- The Crystal Room

<< The legendary Crystal Room was a grand ballroom in the Spectra Mansion, the most glamorous parties happened here.>>

<< Cassandra, Sally Spectra's executive assistant, had done an amazing job of making sure that the mansion staff prepared the ballroom for tonight's party. Everything, from the decorations, the lighting, to the live music, and entertainment. to the food was impeccable, and the ambiance of the Crystal Room now was just what you would expect for a party given by Sally Spectra.>>

<< The selectively invited members of the press- Cameron King and Carla Fox, Private buyers- Dina and Elizabeth York, The "ready to wear boys", Sharon and the KMA family, including Zach, along with Cassandra, Andre, and Alek would all be present. >>

<< Zach would get some pictures of the evening , and of course Vivica would be teasing fans far and wide with selfies, and short live recordings here and there.>>

<< One by one, the guests began to arrive, and would find their seating assignments at the elegant tables. >>

<< Tonight would be an evening to remember, the "ice breaker" event ahead of tommorow's grand fashion show which would officially mark Sally Spectra's return to the world of fashion.>>

<< And now we watch as all the beautiful people begin to arrive.>>

 

[Persephone]

After her talk with Morgaine, Ava had a little extra time to get ready considering her plans to fuck Alek up until the party started fell through. So, with that she had one of the hair and makeup artists come to her suite and glam her up a bit. Might as well look fabulous knowing that Cameron King was going to be gossiping to any press outlet that would listen about how everyone looked and presented themselves. So after about an hour with the glam squad, she was ready to show why she was the current face of KMA.

Ava walked into the grand ballroom dressed in a gorgeous custom Belmain dress dripping with thousands of dollars worth of Swarovski crystals. Her hair was loosely waved in a long bob, and makeup smokey and bronzed. One of the waiters immediately presented her with a tray filled with flutes of champagne; Ava taking one before walking further into the packed ballroom. Slipping a pill into her champagne, it began to bubble and dissolve before disappearing completely; Ava finally taking a sip of the drugged concoction.

She spotted Alek afar, and he cleaned up very nicely. Sexy, really. Damn, Sally really did know how to custom fit a man in a suit. Giving him a little wink, she smirked as she weaved in and out of the crowded ballroom, her eyes staying locked with his. It wasn't until she was distracted by one of Sally's investors that she broke eye contact wwith Alek, the man having questions about the show and how Ava felt about modeling it it.

Ugh...I hate this part of the job.

So, Ava conversed with him while pretending that she found what he said interesting. Downing half her flute of champagne, she awaiting for the other models to arrive so she had an excuse to leave.

 

[Berserker]

The Ballroom

Alek was one of the first to arrive in the ballroom, there to ensure that everything was in order. Everything seemed to be running smoothly, despite his little interlude with Ava cutting short his earlier preparations.

Ava.

He'd been forced to rub one out in his quarters before changing into his suit for the evening. He was still a little pissed off, but was intending to soothe his wounded ego with liquor and whichever model was closest. Now he stood leaning against the piano with a drink in his hand, watching the guests enter. He honestly didn't give a fuck about parties like this, other than as a means to an end.

He saw Ava enter the ballroom. Fuck she looked amazing. It's not that he wouldn't consider fucking Ava again. But only if someone else didn't scoop him up first. She had promised him coke and a threesome, after all. And those long toned legs wrapped around his waist...

She was watching him. He didn't smile at her, even when she winked at him, just held her gaze. His deep blue eyes meeting her dark ones. It was a look that said she knew what he offered, and he wasn't going to beg her for it. Of course, showing up at her room later wasn't begging. It was just being in the right place at the right time.

 

[Oracle]

The Ballroom

Zizi had spent the afternoon in her room, pretending to get ready and avoiding her mother. She played quite a bit with the little cat who had found her, and then it really had been time to get ready, which she grudgingly set about doing. She knew there was no getting out of it: even feigning sick wouldn't work. He mother would just tell her to "push through it", "suck it up" - that this was the price of fame. But she didn't want fame.

She wore the dress her mother had bought for her, a lemon yellow sleeveless concoction. At least it didn't have a low neckline. Her mother knocked on her door when it was time, expecting that she would be ready and not willing to wait one second for her to come out. She followed her down to the ballroom, where there were a lot of people congregating already. An older man in a crisp suit started talking to her mother, and Zizi took the opportunity to slip away, the one time when a crowd was advantageous.

She pulled a glass of champagne from a passing tray and sipped it, looking around at the glamourous people around her. She finally found herself near one of the floor to ceiling windows, looking out into the moonlight.

 

[Orion]

Casa de Spectra — Jackie’s Suite

Jackie, having already gotten off at least twice, was starting to remember they had a party to go to. Zach, perfectly content with the idea of saying ‘fuck the party’, and staying in bed with both of them for the rest of the night, had gone back to Ash for another taste. Jackie was saying something, but it was hard for Zach to hear her with the way Ash was moaning his name, and anyway Ash wrapped her legs around his shoulders to prevent him from getting up, as if she was afraid he'd stop at this point (yeah right).

The sound of a shower filled the background, but it only barely registered with Zach, because Ash had both her hands in his hair and her body was shuddering, and she just got so very loud. Zach smiled against her. Now. Now she was ready for it. Now she was begging for it. Obviously having seen how much Jackie enjoyed it, she had finally decided she didn’t want to miss out. Excellent, because Zach was aching again, and he wanted nothing more than to give it to her, for all those times she taunted him. He pulled her legs off his shoulders and apart so there’d be enough room for him, and then he took her wrists and pinned them over her head as he moved on top of her, pressing in with ease, his mouth clamping down on hers. She tasted — and felt — like victory. Ash was getting loud (again) by the time the shower shut off, and Zach was matching her moan for moan, until she started to shake, and then he did too. Jackie emerged from a steamy bathroom, drying herself off with a towel. Zach glanced at her, smiled, and opened his mouth to invite her back to bed with her clean self, but Jackie spoke first.

Jackie: DAMN, you two still at it? We're WAY past 'fashionably late'.

She said, as Zach's hands continued to roam Ash's body, and he looked down at Ash like he was thinking about having her again.

"Don't worry, when we show up together, everyone will blame ME for making us late."

He replied casually. Too bad Jackie was throwing articles of clothing at them now. Zach tore his gaze from Ash, and reluctantly pulled away from her body, passing her the stuff that belonged to her, the white lace he would much rather see on the floor of his bedroom. Oh, and that reminded him.

"Ash, my bedroom suite would make a great setting for your photo-shoot. I bet you'd look ethereal on the blood red color scheme."

He suggested with a smirk, as he pulled his pants back on. A few minutes more and he was fully dressed again, sticking his feet into dress shoes and fastening his cuff links. He combed his hair with his fingers, and then hastily knotted his bow tie, before escorting both women to the Crystal Ballroom. As soon as they arrived, they were noticed, and the gossip started. People weren't even discreet about it. Zach's assistant appeared almost out of thin air, it seemed, and handed him his camera. Ash, well experienced in these functions, split off from them almost immediately. Zach introduced Jackie to a small group of buyers, insisting that they get better acquainted with her so they'd know to look for her on the runway, and then he began to move on his own through the crowd as well.

He started snapping pictures, making his way around the ballroom, when his lens captured a woman standing by the full length windows, silhouetted by the moonlight. He took a couple shots of her, in her sexy backless dress, and only stopped when he realized it was Dina York's shy little girl scout. Her glass of champagne was almost empty, so Zach took the liberty of grabbing two glasses off the tray that passed him, and then he offered one to her as he eased up next to her, a soft smile on his lips.

"I knew you were secretly a knockout, Zizi."

 

[Valkyrie]

Jackie's Suite

She took her time with Jackie, employing soft caresses and long, deep kisses to call to her body. Zach appreciated the sight of them together, and he made sure he welcomed Jackie too. But with Zach's head between her legs, she lost track of Jackie, who had said something about a shower. Her hands gripped his hair and her long legs wrapped around him, because after all of this he wasn't going anywhere. She moaned his name because, damn, he was good at this for a man. Her voice took a higher pitch as her back arched and she felt that warm release wash over her.

Zach certainly in earnest. She could feel his desire, how much he wanted her. And it felt good. Most of these girls, even the ones she could get into bed, didn't really want her. They were looking to try something new, or just get off, or feel appreciated. But if she wanted to feel adored this weekend, he was the one to give that to her. And that was why she always teased him, because he always came back wanting her so very badly. And on some level, she needed it.

"I suppose I have to get dressed now..."

But Zach seemed to have other ideas, and she let out a yip of surprise as he pulled her legs down and apart, and entered her. Shit, he was huge. But she just moaned his name again as his mouth took hers. He knew was he was doing, and brought her again, crying out loudly.

"Fuck, Zach."

Jackie: DAMN, you two still at it? We're WAY past 'fashionably late'.

"The party don't start til I walk in."

She stretched like a cat, Zach's hands still on her. She wondered if Jackie would be up for another round, but she seemed very insistent about going to the party.

"Don't worry, when we show up together, everyone will blame ME for making us late."

She reached up her index finger and ran it down his bearded cheek.

"Babe, when YOU walk in with US, everyone will be jealous as fuck of you."

Jackie was throwing clothes at them now.

"Alright, ALRIGHT, I get the picture."

She smirked at Jackie.

"The way you're itching to get to that first industry party, it's so adorable."

She licked her lips, thinking about making it just the two of them the next time.

"Ash, my bedroom suite would make a great setting for your photo-shoot. I bet you'd look ethereal on the blood red color scheme."

She gave him a look, raising an eyebrow at him while still checking out his nude form. Not bad.

"I always look ethereal."

She had slipped her panties on and was hooking her bustier in the back as she took a few steps closer to him.

"I was thinking of a huntress theme maybe for this one."

She stepped into her dress and pulled it up, zipping it up the side then with one last hunter's gaze at Zach moved to Jackie's vanity to fix her ponytail and check her makeup. Jackie had that sexy dress on again, and Zach was ready to go, and the three of them made their way to the ballroom. It was like coming upon a pack of hyenas.

"I need a drink."

And without another word to either of them, she headed for the bar.

 

[Persephone]

Buyer: "You know Miss Cassadine, i've always said that it's you that doesn't need KMA."

"Uh huh..."

It was like that Charlie Brown teacher when the man spoke, womp womp womp, because nothing he said was interesting. She glanced around the party, noting that none of the actual headline model were there BUT her. What the actual fuck? This was annoying. Why the hell was she here doing her job and everyone else was alright to show up late. Fucking ridiculous. Then she heard murmurs and whispers with the name Zach, Ashley, and some new girl tunneling around the ballroom. Looking toward the entrance, there it was: Zach with Jackie and Ashley on both arms, having that satisfied look of a new conquest conquered and another notch on his tripod. So Ashley finally fell for his charm. And with Jackie no less? Oh hell no. How many times had Ava suggested bringing a man into their bed and Ashley saying no. She even had to resort to Paris Fashion Week blackmail just to get her to consider one with Alek earlier. And now she just gave it up with JACKIE? Ava was starting to get a complex.

All the while, the buyer wouldn't shut up.

Buyer: "I could take your brand to another level. Make you an even bigger star beyond Sharon Kelly. No other models around--all eyes on you."

Ava felt his hand on her waist and made her snap out of her thoughts. She looked down at his hand then back up at him. She had no idea what he was talking about, but the fact that his hand was on her raised enough red flags to narrow her eyes.

"What?"

Buyer: "We all know what kind of party girl you are, Ava....It's no secret. Give me a little of that Grecian delight and we'll talk business...."

His hand slid down her waist to her ass, squeezing it.

"Get your hands off me."

Ava growled lowly, not wanting to cause a scene at Sally's party out of respect for her.

Buyer: "Come on you little slut, I know you want it. Don't play coy like you haven't slept your way through every other buyer in this place."

Ava forcefully pushed him back, his champagne spilling up his tux and causing him to open his mouth with surprise and shock. He laughed it off, saying he lost his balance by how beautiful Miss Cassadine looked but Ava didn't smile or play along with his bullshit lies. Her eyes were unforgiving, glaring at him before turning around and storming through the crowd and to a quiet corner of the ballroom. Ava was used to getting hit on and propositioned by men, but what pissed her off was the fact that balless bastard suggested she didn't work HARD to get where she was, instead sleeping her way to the top. That he could put his hands on her and think she would do exactly that with him. Harvey Weinstein who? It made her skin crawl. Snagging another flute of champagne, she down the glass in one gulp, ready for this night to be over with.

 

[Oracle]

The Ballroom

There were murmurs in the crowd and Zizi turned to see Zach enter the room looking handsome in a black and white tux, flanked by two gorgeous models. She supposed being such a sought after photographer, he was always surrounded by gorgeous models. She turned back to the window, wondering how long she'd have to avoid her mother before she could slip out and go to bed. She never felt more alone than in a room like this, and much preferred to actually be alone than to have to pretend to have a good time or not care that no one was talking to her.

She felt a body sidle up next to her and she waited to hear her mother's voice, admonishing her for not networking. But then she saw a glass of champagne and the hand that offered it.

"I knew you were secretly a knockout, Zizi."

She set her empty glass on a side table and took the offered refill.

"Zach. Thank you for the drink."

She took a sip.

"My mother's not with me - she's off mingling. Find the wealthiest person here and that's probably where she is."

She ventured a small smile, giving him permission to leave now that he knew Dina wasn't around to be schmoozed.

 

[Berserker]

The Ballroom

So, yes, he was watching Ava. But he was a man, and men looked at beautiful women. It did not mean he forgave her for earlier or that she had any kind of power over him. And just because he wanted to tear the arms off the old as fuck creep who was talking to her, especially when he put his hand on her ass - that kind of thing would disgust any man.

But he couldn't help but smile as she put the little fucker in his place and stormed off. She had a fire alright, and she could take care of herself, which he liked. Marissa would have burst into tears and crumpled to the floor. In fact, she had at a party a couple years ago. He finished his drink and grabbed another one before making his way through the crowd to where she was. He stood next to her, tilting his head to speak into her ear.

"Do you want me to kill him for you?"

 

[Persephone]

Disgusting prick.

How Sally kept some of these buys around was beyond her. They were creeps who got off on thinking they could stick it in any model just because they had money and influence. They obviously didn't realize that KMA models were different than every other model in the industry. Huffing out, Ava placed her empty glass on a nearby table, her eyes scanning the crowd. She noted Zach talking to some mousey brunette, having already moved on from Ashley it seemed. Speaking of Ashley, she was downing some booze at the bar. Then finally she saw Vivica walk in, never more happy to see the social media bitch in her life. Everyone knew that Vivica's phone was attached to her hand, and live streaming was a way of life for her. So everyone would be on their best behaviors simply so they wouldn't get caught on camera doing things that could bite them in the ass later.

Ava glanced to her left, seeing Alek approaching her. She wasn't in the mood, especially after what happened with the buyer. He stood next to her casually, only leaning down just enough to whisper in her ear.

Alek: "Do you want me to kill him for you?"

Ava's face remained even as she stared out into the crowd.

"No."

She said simply before finally looking at Alek. Taking his drink from his hand.

"I'll do it myself."

Saluting him with a cheers, she took a big gulp of his drink before handing it back to him. Whisky, of course he would be drinking whisky. A waiter passed by and Ava grabbed herself another flute of champagne, this time holding it with her arms crossed along her chest.

"I didn't mean to blue ball you earlier, that was a bitch move on my part."

She remarked casually, her eyes staying on the crowd as more people arrived.

"But Morgaine's had a hard time coming back and I couldn't brush her off."

Looking over at him.

"So, who has your eye now, handsome?"

Glancing over in Jackie's direction, offering her as an option.

"The new girl seems to be very popular."

 

[Berserker]

The Ballroom

He offered to kill the buyer for Ava. He would have done it too. But she said no, snatching his drink right out of his hand and finishing it.

"I'll do it myself."

He chuckled at that. She had balls, he had to hand it to her.

"I didn't mean to blue ball you earlier, that was a bitch move on my part."

"Yeah it was."

He looked down into his empty glass, then set it on a tray that was passing by.

"So, who has your eye now, handsome?"

"Oh, I don't know. Who would you suggest?"

"The new girl seems to be very popular."

He had seen her and Ashley come in with Zach. Now there was a guy who got around. Any asshole with a camera and suddenly women were falling into his bed. How typical. Not like Zach was any better than he was. He'd lived here just the same as Alek did. But the new girl seemed too naive for him, not that he was against the sweet and innocent type. But he liked a little more from his women, when he could get it.

"I guess. But I like someone who knows what they're doing."

He took her champagne glass out of her hand and downed it.

"Someone who's not afraid to kick a guy's ass for being a dickhead. Now there's my kind of woman."

He shrugged at her, backing away.

"Guess I'll have to keep looking."

He turned around and melted back into the party, a smile spreading over his face.

 

[Persephone]

She stood next to Alek, scoping out the room after denying his offer to kill the buyer. If the asshole was going to meet an untimely death, it would be by her hand...the bastard. But alas, the conversation shifted to sex. She asked him who he had eyes on now, knowing he was likely to sleep with as many models as possible during the weekend.

Alek: "Oh, I don't know. Who would you suggest?"

Ava shrugged. There were so many to choose from. But her eyes fell upon Jackie who was now the most popular new girl at KMA.

"The new girl seems to be very popular."

Alek: "I guess. But I like someone who knows what they're doing."

Ava casually tilted her head, studying the girl.

"She might. Looks can be deceiving."

She really didn't know Jackie all that well yet. She met her once, seemed nice enough, and she was drop dead gorgeous. So Ava was a little surprised that Alek didn't seem interested. Feeling him take her champagne from her hand, she finally looked over at him as he downed her whole flute in one gulp. Narrowing her eyes, he was obviously getting her back for drinking his disgusting whisky drink.

Alek: "Someone who's not afraid to kick a guy's ass for being a dickhead. Now there's my kind of woman."

She smirked as he shrugged casually and began to back away into the crowd.

"Oh, so you want me to kick your ass now?"

Ava promptly turning around his words on him. She wasn't about to let his cocky ass off that easy.

Alek: "Guess I'll have to keep looking."

He turned away and she rolled her eyes with a smile.

"I guess so. Have fun hunting, handsome."

She called out in a sing-song, teasing tone as he disappeared into the crowd, leaving Ava alone once again.

 

[Ruby]

Casa de Spectra – The Crystal Room



:: Shortly after leaving the studio with Maxie in tow, Cassandra made her way back to her suite to get herself ready for the night. As soon as she entered, she set the little kitten down and watched as Maxie immediately ran over to a window and jumped up onto the ledge, meowing at whatever she thought was out there. ::

“There’s nothing out there, love.”

:: That was all she could say before the in-house makeup and hair stylists arrived. They helped get her ready. For the party, Cassandra had chosen a Spectra original: a long, mint green, strapless dress. With her hair and makeup done, she looked absolutely exquisite. ::

Hair Stylist: “I must say, Cassandra, you look absolutely stunning.”

“Thank you so much.”

:: Her people packed up their products and tools and left her suite. Cassandra smiled as she slipped on her heels and went over to Maxie, who was now wearing a silver harness, and hooked her with her matching silver leash. Maxie yowled as she was taken from her perch but she soon settled down in her mama’s arms. Cassandra scratched the little girl’s head. ::

“WHAT is with you and outside tonight? You usually don’t bother with the outdoors unless I’m there with you.”

:: Cassandra kissed the little animal and then nuzzled her nose in the soft fur. ::

*whispers*: “I’m glad I have you by my side to keep me calm.”

:: She was rewarded with a lick on her chin by Maxie’s pink tongue. She hugged the animal closer as she made her way down the grand staircase and into the Crystal Room. She always got nervous and anxious before these kinds of events. She set Maxie down and, putting her wrist through the loop at the other end of the leash, set about wandering through the ballroom making sure that everything was just right. She couldn’t help it; though she already checked and doublechecked everything, she still wanted to reassure herself that everything was perfect for Sally. At least that’s what she always told herself, but really it was to calm her nerves down before intentionally engaging other people. She was currently at the food table making sure everything was just so. ::

:: She spotted Zach talking with Dina York’s daughter out of the corner of her eye. Once she calmed down and got settled, she’d have to go over there and talk to them. They were far more interesting than anybody else here – besides Sally, of course. For now, though, she'd settle for making sure that everything was perfect; that nothing was out of place. ::

 

[Orion]

Casa de Spectra — Crystal Ballroom

The girl straight ignored his compliment. She didn't even smile. Zach wondered if it was just because she wasn't used to getting them, or if she thought he wasn't being sincere. Either way it was kind of sad.

Zizi: Zach. Thank you for the drink.

"You're welcome."

He replied cheerily, as he tried to assess just why she was avoiding the party proper by staring out into the courtyard. It would have been easy to assume that Zizi was a product of her upbringing, rich, elitist, too cool or too clever to be caught dead making friends with anybody who didn't have at least as much money as her. But No, Zach could tell it wasn't that. She wasn't a total snob like her mother. She was just plain uncomfortable in this setting, and he got this overwhelming sense of loneliness from her, and he felt, inexplicably, like he should be her friend, which was unusual for him, because mostly he just got the urge to be a lover whenever it came to a woman, or else the relationship felt awkward.

Zizi: My mother's not with me - she's off mingling. Find the wealthiest person here and that's probably where she is.

Zach nodded.

"Yeah, I know. I got a picture of her plotting with the Vanderbilts. Hopefully they'll keep her attention a while. I don't mind admitting to you that I tend to attempt to avoid your mother after she gets into the champagne -- her hugs get friskier as she gets tipsier. That's why I made sure to greet her at the cable car station, before she got three sheets to the wind and realized she hadn't gotten a hold of me yet."

He said, smiling as he lifted his glass to his lips. He stroked his beard with his free hand for a moment, wondering how go about talking to her without making it seem like he was hitting on her (which was a real challenge for Zach, because his natural form of communication was flirting). He drank his champagne as he mulled it over, and then just decided to join her in pretending to look out the windows, and casually try to conversate, while tactfully abstaining from anything that could be considered a double entendre.

"So you REALLY don't want anything to do with this whole circus, do you?"

He asked curiously.

 

[Oracle]

The Ballroom

Zizi let Zach know that her mother wasn't with her, but did her best to direct him where to find her.

"Yeah, I know. I got a picture of her plotting with the Vanderbilts. Hopefully they'll keep her attention a while. I don't mind admitting to you that I tend to attempt to avoid your mother after she gets into the champagne -- her hugs get friskier as she gets tipsier. That's why I made sure to greet her at the cable car station, before she got three sheets to the wind and realized she hadn't gotten a hold of me yet."

Zizi almost laughed, managing to hold it mostly in.

"I'm sorry, I thought - that you were looking for her."

She realized he was just being nice, talking to her, because she was alone. She made a show of looking him up and down, then put her thumb and forefinger to her chin, looking pensive.

"That tux gives you some padding, but you really should invest in kevlar if you're going to continue to be at the same functions as my mother. Armor piercing rounds have nothing on her fingers."

She smiled at him.

"But you should have seen her when she met Zac Efron. It was embarrassing."

Shut up, Zizi.

She went back to looking out the window, trying to stop looking like an idiot.

"So you REALLY don't want anything to do with this whole circus, do you?"

Her eyes moved to his face again, surprise in them. No one had ever asked her that before. She weighed her response for a moment before answering.

"Well, it's ridiculous, isn't it? Anyone can see I'm no model. But mother won't let it go."

She sighed.

"I know how that sounds, that I should be grateful that I don't have to worry about making a living. That I get to go to parties and wear expensive clothes and stay at mansions. But it's just like, every minute of every day she's telling me how to act or what to do or say. I never get to do what I want. Even now, the clock is ticking until she realizes I'm not with her and comes looking for me."

She went back to looking out the window.

"I tried to tell her, that I didn't want to be a model. I did. I told her I wanted to start a non profit, to help children who felt marginalized, different. And you know what she said? 'Elizabeth, darling, we give money to charities, we don't run them.' As if she wasn't working at the makeup counter at Macy's when she met daddy."

She took a sip of champagne, shaking her head.

"Mother thinks that if she just talks to all the right people, they'll fix me somehow, and I'll be like her. But no matter how much makeup they put on me or what clothes they dress me in, it will never be enough."

 

[Silver Swan]

The Crystal Room

[ Ava would feel a familiar hand gently touch her shoulder. She'd turn to find Sharon Kelly standing there, wearing a figure flattering cocktail dress and matching high heels, the whole ensemble accentuating her enchanting silver eyes.]

I saw you handle that buyer.

[ A wicked smile crosses Sharon's face]

Good work!

[ Clinking her glass with Ava's]

Some of these ready to wear boys are just trash, and that's the market they cater to. Sally knows that, and she isn't terribly concerned about woo'ing MOST of them because her designs are for the high end market....but as you know, this is all...a game. One that WE will maintain the advantage, one that we WIN.



[ Standing with her signature super model, Sharon takes a moment to size up the room's guests so far. Jackie is making a strong impression in her sexy black dress and those shimmering bracelets. Ashley, a pro at these events, is taking things in stride, and unlike just about every other model in the KMA family, she's enjoying the food. Zach is chatting up Dina York's charming little daughter. Everyone was looking stylish, and the mood was right, even if some of the guests, on an individual level were rotten to the core.]

He got what he deserved.

[ She looks over toward Cameron King, who has a few people gathered around him. He was a scumbag, but a charismatic one. Someone should do a case study on him!]

Speaking of just deserts....

[ A chime is heard as Morgaine seems to glide into view, walking with poise and style in her vintage dress]

[ She's making her way directly toward Cameron King, and the look on her face says it all. ]

...tonight will be FAR from dull.


[ She saw Ava stealing glances of Alek from afar, and cleared her throat, nudging Ava playfully]

Just make SURE you don't forget about tomorrow's show?

[ Taking a drink and laughing a bit.]

I'd better make my way over there...

[ Morgaine and Cameron...just in case he provokes her and I have to stop her from killing him]

... Have fun tonight, darling!

[ As Sharon made her way over toward Morgaine and Cameron, Vivica made her entrance as well.]

 

[Spellbinder]

The Crystal Room

<< The music playing in the crystal ball room suited the glamorous occassion, but for Morgaine...the moment she laid eyes on Cameron King? She heard THIS as she began to make her way toward him.>>

<< She walks..."glides" on those long, smooth flawless legs, in her dress desgined by Sally Spectra, passing Alek, Cassandra, Sharon, and Ava along the way. >>


<< Without taking her violet eyes off her target, she picks up a glass of champagne, and continues her approach.>>


<< Finally, she reaches him, and the people standing around her scatter like minows fleeing the approach of an apex predator. Ashley has the perfect view of this moment.>>

You have alot to say, Cameron, and little of it is good OR accurate.

But now that I'm here, in your face? How about you say something NOW?

<< Morgaine had ZERO fucks to give about who saw, or heard. He could make his messy remarks about her all he wanted, he'd done so for years. But when he started making light of her tragic loss? The bitch switch was FLIPPED.>>

 

[Artemis]

Casa de Spectra — Crystal Room

:: She was learning her new KMA family, and who said education couldn't be fun? ::

:: A taste of him, a taste of her. A taste of honey, a taste of sin. Jackie was not above trying, sampling all sorts of delights, and there was no reason to be shy, or to deny herself.::

:: What an experience! She would would have more before this weekend as over. ::


:: She lavished herself in the shower chamber, while Ashley and Zach continued on. It was a tempting thought, to stay here and indulge further, but this was Jackie's first outing as a KMA model. She had to put her best foot forward and justify Sharon giving her such a big chance like this.::

Jackie: DAMN, you two still at it? We're WAY past 'fashionably late'.

She said, as Zach's hands continued to roam Ash's body, and he looked down at Ash like he was thinking about having her again.

"Don't worry, when we show up together, everyone will blame ME for making us late."

Come on, you hot boxes!

Jackie was throwing clothes at them now.

"Alright, ALRIGHT, I get the picture."

She smirked at Jackie.

"The way you're itching to get to that first industry party, it's so adorable."

She licked her lips, thinking about making it just the two of them the next time.

:: Jackie eyed Ashley calmly. She could tell that Ashley enjoyed the thrill of the hunt, NOT just on a safari. But she made it all so easy, feel so natural to Jackie.::

absolutely no regrets

:: She thought to herself as she adjusted the silver bracelets on her wrists, and in a bit, she walked with Zach and Ashley to the Crystal room::

:: Some seemed to already know (somehow) why she was "fashionably late" , and it did seem like more than a few pairs of eyes were on her now, but Jackie was no shrinking violet.::

:: As they stood there for a moment, She stood in a slight pose in her dress, and looked confidently, as she took in the scene, spotting Ava, the buyers, members of the press, Alek, and Cassandra. ::

:: soon Ashley broke off from them, and made her way to the bar.::

She's quite interesting.

:: Jackie said to Zach as he lead her over to a group of buyers and formally introduced her as Sharon's newest protege.::

:: they began to gather around and size her up, while Zach moved on, taking pictures and chatting up Dina's shy daughter::

:: Jackie was asked a few questions, which she already knew how to answer. Already she could tell who was sincere and who was basically undressing her with their eyes. These men were both typical and predictable.::

It's a pleasure, gentlemen, but any further questions will be answered in tomorrows debut of Sally Spectra's new collection. Media inquiries that are legitimate, of course, will be fielded through Sharon Kelly!

Thank you.

:: She broke away from the men around her, walking without hesitation, and picking up a glass of champagne from a tray as a server passed by.::

:: She spotted Ava, who had apparently just sent another man on his way! Morgaine was right, the "ready to wear boys" were THE WORST...and it was only a matter of business and mutual necessity that Sally tolerated them.::

Hey. Nice dress.

:: She said with a smile to Ava as she reached her::

I only caught the tail end of that.

Morgaine told me that the "ready to wear boys" were among the lowest of low.

:: Looking over at the man who was trying to blend into the crowd, and trying to play off how he just got shut down::

I've a feeling there'll be a few more gauntlets to run before the night is over.

::Alek. Who had just left Ava's presence.::

So...that's Sally's man candy?

Quite the opposite from Zach.

:: She watched Alek for a moment. There was something about him that she found...off putting. She looked over at Ava, who was eyeing him in "THAT WAY.::

Something tells me you've been to that candy shop before.

:: Winking at her::

:: Sharon appeared, looking ever so stylish and chic in her dress. Sharon complimented Ava on rebuffing that rude buyer. One thing about Sharon that was well documented was that she was a savvy business woman, and she was UNAFRAID to navigate the waters of the industry that had long been dominated by MALE sharks. She not only broke down doors and blazed trails, she protected herself and her models, empowering them to do so, and not reducing them to pieces of meat for men to use and abuse.::

Sharon! Hi!

Sharon: Jackie, darling. You look ravishing in this dress! It fits you perfectly! You're gonna be a big hit tomorrow!

:: And speaking of tomorrow, Sharon was apparently thinking the same thing Jackie was, regarding Ava and Alek, as she give Ava a friendly reminder ::

:: Soon, all eyes were on Morgaine, who appeared in her beautiful dress, and was making a beeline for::

Cameron King.

Speaking of just deserts....

[ A chime is heard as Morgaine seems to glide into view, walking with poise and style in her vintage dress]

[ She's making her way directly toward Cameron King, and the look on her face says it all. ]

...tonight will be FAR from dull.

I'd better make my way over there...

[ Morgaine and Cameron...just in case he provokes her and I have to stop her from killing him]

... Have fun tonight, darlings!

[ As Sharon made her way over toward Morgaine and Cameron, Vivica made her entrance as well.]

So...on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being "YOU IN DANGER, GIRL!" Where would you say Cameron is right now?

:: she asked with a knowing tone::

 

[Persephone]

Ava was alone, watching as the rest of the KMA models arrived and wishing for the party to be over already. Then she saw Jackie approaching.

Jackie: Hey. Nice dress.

"Thanks. You too."

She said nicely though not as friendly as it could have been. Ava snagged another flute of champagne from a tray that was passing and took a sip.

Jackie: I only caught the tail end of that. Morgaine told me that the "ready to wear boys" were among the lowest of low.

"That's an understatement."

She deadpanned, glaring at the man who had grabbed her ass and called her a slut.

"They're all assholes who throw around money thinking that'll get their dick in whoever they want."

Ava's eyes shifted over to Alek who was no across the ballroom staring at her.

Jackie: I've a feeling there'll be a few more gauntlets to run before the night is over.

Breaking her eye contact with Alek, Ava looked over at Jackie and finally smiled at her warmly. Lifting her champagne glass, she clinked it against the new models.

"Oh sweetheart, it's just begun. Stick with me....those ready to wear jerkoffs won't bother you, I promise you that."

Jackie was a nice girl and definitely was trying to make a good impression on not only KMA models, but the buyers, and Sally. She was working hard and knew the pecking order. She wasn't one of those new bitches who came in and thought they would run the place like a lot of models who DIDN'T work out in the end. Jackie was good people, and Ava couldn't fault her for fucking Ashley and Zach. I mean....look at them.

The conversation shifted to Alek, whom Jackie pointed out as being Sally's man candy and obviously someone that Ava was interested in.

Jackie: So...that's Sally's man candy? Quite the opposite from Zach.

Ava lightly laughed at that.

"VERY opposite of Zach, which is his appeal. Zach's sweet and caring, even with his one night stands. Alek's rough around the edges. I like that."

He didn't try to impress Ava like 95% of the other men in this room. He was straight forward and truthful which was refreshing. But still, he was a man who was surrounded by models. She knew his dick would warm another woman's bed at some point. Hell, if she were in his position, she'd be doing the same thing.

Jackie: Something tells me you've been to that candy shop before.

Ava grinned at that, flicking her eyebrows up before taking a sip of her drink.

"And what a large candy shop it was."

She joked, laughing with Jackie. She then felt a soft touch on her shoulder, causing Ava to turn and see Sharon there. Jackie happily greeted her and Ava smiled warmly at her boss.

"Hey Shar."

Sharon: I saw you handle that buyer. Good work!

They clinked glasses and Ava grinned.

"I learned from the best."

Sharon basically said exactly what Ava just told Jackie, that the ready to wear boys were assholes and disgusting. But Ava had been around the business for long enough t know how to handle them. But still, the night was far from over and there would definitely be more bumps along the way.

Sharon: Speaking of just deserts....tonight will be FAR from dull.

Ava's eyes shifted over to Morgaine who was making a b-line to Cameron King. Her lips upturned into a devious smirk, knowing that Morgaine was going to tear that bottom feeder a new asshole, and it was going to be fucking fantastic.

"I'm so glad that bitch is back."

She said proudly, knowing the fireworks were about to start. But Ava's eyes then shifted over to Alek, seeing him getting a front row to the show as well before catching her eye. She then felt Sharon nudge her.

Sharon: Just make SURE you don't forget about tomorrow's show?

Ava smiled and rolled her eyes playfully.

"Work over pleasure, always Sharon. You know me."

Ava may be notorious for being a party girl and loving sex and drugs, but when it came to work she was a professional first and foremost. She never let her personal fun interfere with her work. She showed up on time, did her job no matter how long it took, made sure everyone got the shots they needed, then went home to party hard afterwards. It was one of the many reasons why Sharon was so lax with Ava and her ways. She knew when push came to shove, Ava showed up and did her job. She was no Lindsay Lohan.

Sharon bid both herself and Jackie farewell for now, heading over to Morgaine and Cameron knowing it was going to be a brawl. Ava folded her arms across her chest and held her drink up to her mouth, watching.

Jackie: So...on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being "YOU IN DANGER, GIRL!" Where would you say Cameron is right now?

Ava laughed, gesturing with her flute toward Cameron.

"I say Cameron is in the lions den ready to be devoured."

 

[Orion]

Casa de Spectra — Crystal Ballroom

He saw Zizi try to stifle her laugh, after he made his comments about her mother’s extra friendly hugs. Her dimples made a welcome reappearance, and immediately it seemed the mood was warmer. Zach smiled in return, and watched with curious amusement as she looked him over and then suggested he invest in Kevlar. He laughed deeply, his free hand clutching his chest.

“When you put it like that, maybe I ought to consider a plate carrier.”

Zizi: But you should have seen her when she met Zac Efron. It was embarrassing.

Zach smiled again, knowingly.

“Well, that guy is premium cougar bait, so I’m not exactly surprised.”

He quipped, and then he proposed that maybe she didn’t want anything to do with the business her mother was blatantly thrusting her into. She looked at him in surprise for a moment.

Zizi: Well, it's ridiculous, isn't it? Anyone can see I'm no model. But mother won't let it go.

Zach’s jaw dropped a bit, a reaction he deftly covered by raising his glass to his lips. He took a long drink as he listened to her explain. It wasn’t just that she didn’t think she was good enough, or that she had no interest in fashion, it was also that her mother micromanaged the enjoyment out of it. With that combination, who WOULD want to do any of this? He was going to speak up, but she turned, and went on to say that she’d tried to tell her mother she didn’t want this, that she’d rather do something else, something admirably selfless with her time, and Zach looked at her kindly.

Zizi: Mother thinks that if she just talks to all the right people, they'll fix me somehow, and I'll be like her. But no matter how much makeup they put on me or what clothes they dress me in, it will never be enough.

“No, of course not,”

He started in agreement, turning his body towards her and leaning against the window frame.

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

He said, and just then, new murmurs spread through the crowded room, as Morgaine, and then Sharon walked in. Zach turned more, so he could lean his back against the window frame, and cast his gaze out onto the crowd, and he gestured for Zizi to turn around and do the same.

“Maybe I’m just used to looking for beauty wherever it exists, but, just take the KMA models for example. There’s our current signature model, Ava, talking with our newest addition, Jackie.”

He looked at those two for a moment, as they seemed to be smirking about something as they chatted, and he smiled warmly, as he appreciated how attractive they both were, then his gaze moved on, to find another model, who was taking a well-composed selfie.

“Vivica, our social media maven. Morgaine, older than the others, and no less gorgeous.”

He commented, smirking as he saw Morgaine approach Cameron. That exchange ought to be good. His gaze moved again, though, because in the corner of his eye, there was Ashley, by the bar. His desire for her was not diminished in the least by having had her. His eyes got stuck on her for a minute. He no longer cared if he got caught staring. There was a smile toying with the corners of his lips.

“And then there’s our Nordic Princess, last but not at ALL least. And each one of them is beautiful, in their own unique way. Just as you are.”

He said, finally looking back at Zizi.

“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.”

He drank the last of his champagne, and then gestured for one of the cocktail waitresses to swing their way so he could have a refill.

“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 lifted two more glasses off the tray when it was brought to them, and offered her another drink.

“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 drank to drown out bad memories.

“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.”