Ava's eyes widened. "Oh...wow. Really? Do you want to compete against her?"
I nodded, "More than anything. I want to prove to myself and everyone else that I'm not just a has-been model's daughter. I'm my own person, with my own talent and drive."
"And most of all," I continued, my voice firm, "I want to take back everything she's taken from me."
Ava's eyes sparkled with understanding, and she placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. "And you will," she said, her voice steady. "You definitely will."
Ava smiled, and for a moment, I felt a sense of hope and belonging.
Like I'd found a true ally in this crazy industry.
"Well, I gotta go," Ava said finally, breaking the spell. "But I hope you catch your dreams, Embers. You deserve it."
I watched as Ava, she had been so free to speak with. As if I was talking to a chill best friend.
I couldn't help but chuckle to myself as I applied my mascara back.
****
