Zia woke up to the soft glow of her alarm clock, feeling more centered after her conversation with Cordelia. She knew today would be challenging, with the charity gala and her mother's expectations.
As she dressed, Zia mentally prepared herself for the inevitable confrontation with Winter. She chose a stunning emerald green gown, her hair styled in loose waves.
Downstairs, Winter waited in the foyer, resplendent in a black evening gown. "Good morning, Zia. You look lovely."
Zia's guard remained up. "Thanks, Mom."
Winter's expression turned serious. "Zia, I apologize if I came across too strongly last night. I just want what's best for you."
Zia's skepticism showed. "Really, Mom? Because it feels like you're suffocating me."
Winter's eyes flashed. "I'm doing this for your own good, Zia. You'll understand one day."
The tension between them was palpable as they left for the gala.
At the event, Zia mingled with ease, her social skills honed from years of attending such functions. She exchanged pleasantries with donors and dignitaries, her smile bright.
But beneath the surface, Zia seethed. She longed to break free from her mother's control and forge her own path.
Winter navigated the crowded room with ease, Zia in tow. They approached a group of esteemed guests, and Winter's eyes sparkled with excitement.
"Zia, I'd like you to meet Senator Thompson, and his wife, Catherine. And, of course, Mr. Leonardo Rodriguez."
Zia's gaze landed on Leonardo, and her breath caught. Tall, muscular, and handsome, with piercing blue eyes that seemed to bore into her soul. His expression was serious, poised.
"Mr. Rodriguez," Zia said, extending her hand.
Leonardo's handshake was firm. "Miss Axel. It's a pleasure."
Winter beamed. "Leonardo and I have discussed potential business collaborations. He's a brilliant entrepreneur."
As they conversed, Zia sensed an undercurrent between Leonardo and her mother. They exchanged knowing glances, their smiles tinged with familiarity.
Zia's unease grew. What did her mother have planned?
As the conversation continued, Zia's frustration simmered. She felt like a pawn in her mother's game.
Suddenly, she'd had enough.
"Excuse me," Zia said, grabbing her clutch. "I need some fresh air."
Winter's grip on her arm tightened. "Zia, where are you going?"
Zia's eyes flashed. "I need a break, Mother. Now."
Winter's expression turned stern. "Zia, don't be rude. Mr. Rodriguez and I—"
"I'll be right back," Zia interrupted, shaking off her mother's grasp.
Zia swiftly departed, leaving a trail of curious glances in her wake. Guests turned to Winter, expecting an explanation.
Winter's smile faltered for a moment before she regained composure. "I apologize, everyone. Zia's not feeling well. Please, let's continue enjoying the evening."
The room buzzed with hushed conversations, speculating about Zia's sudden exit.
Once outside, Zia welcomed the cool night air, freeing her from the stifling gala.
Upon arriving home, Zia sought solace in her friend Perach. She dialed her number, and Perach answered on the first ring.
"Hey, girl! What's up?" Perach asked.
Zia unleashed a pent-up sigh. "Mom's driving me crazy. She's trying to control my life again."
Perach listened attentively as Zia recounted the evening's events.
"And then she introduced me to this guy, Leonardo Rodriguez. I don't know what her plans are, but I'm not having it."
Perach chuckled. "Sounds like your mom's up to her matchmaking tricks again."
Zia groaned. "I know, right? I feel like I'm suffocating."
Perach's tone turned serious. "Zia, you need to talk to your mom. Set boundaries. You can't keep running away."
Zia nodded, even though Perach couldn't see her. "I know. I just need to calm down first."
Their conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and concern.
As they wrapped up their call, Zia felt her frustration dissipate.
Zia scrolled through TikTok, mindlessly watching videos until she remembered her pending task. She had to create a review video for the new cosmetic product, "Lumina Glow" foundation.
She quickly got ready, setting up her camera and lighting. With a fresh face and a friendly smile, Zia began recording.
"Hey, beauties! Welcome back to my channel. Today, I'm reviewing Lumina Glow's new foundation. Let's dive in!"
Zia expertly applied the foundation, sharing her honest thoughts on its texture, coverage, and finish.
After wrapping up the video, she edited and posted it. Within an hour, her notifications exploded.
"100k views and counting!" Zia squealed, thrilled.
Comments poured in:
"Love this foundation! Your review sold me!"
"Zia, your skin looks amazing!"
"Girl, your honesty is refreshing!"
Zia's phone buzzed non-stop as her video racked up views and comments. 500k, 600k, 700k – the numbers kept climbing.
Lumina Glow's team took notice, impressed by Zia's engaging review. They sent her a direct message:
"@ZiaAxel We're obsessed with your honest review! We'd love to collaborate further. Would you be interested in becoming the face of our new campaign?"
Zia's eyes widened as she read the message. This was a dream partnership!
The brand's representative, Emily, scheduled a call to discuss details.
"Zia, we're looking for a strong, confident influencer to showcase our product. Your authenticity and style align perfectly with our brand. We'd like you to model for our upcoming ads and create exclusive content."
Zia's excitement grew. "That sounds amazing! I'm in."
Emily outlined the terms: a six-figure deal, exclusive rights to Lumina Glow content, and a potential contract renewal.
Zia's mind whirled with the possibilities. This partnership could catapult her influencer status to new heights.
Perach and Cordelia flooded her with congratulatory messages.
"Girl, you're crushing it!" Perach texted.
"This is just the beginning!" Cordelia added.
Winter, however, remained uncharacteristically silent.