SELENA'S POV
It's been five years, but that man is still hunting me in my dreams. I firmly close my eyes and gently massage my forehead.
That night was the first and last time I saw him, and I still find it hard to believe that five years have passed and I have not heard from him since.
Since I was drunk when I met him, I am even unable to recall how he looks. Though, I will never forget how he left me after what happened.
As soon as I heard my phone ring, I woke up. Without checking who was calling, I idly pulled my phone out of my bag and answered.
"Hello there, sleeping beauty, how's your sleep?" Kaila, my best friend, excitedly asks me. I snore. "How's your first sex? Is it worth it?" She laughed after what she said, and that's when my sanity came back.
I jump out of bed right away and look around the room. I completely forgot that I was in this hotel with a complete stranger!
I let out a sigh and tried to recall everything that happened that night. "Girl, what?"
I curtly responded, "Well... Nothing happened." I can sense that she is shocked even though we are not in close contact with each other.
I rolled my eyes and informed her what had happened the last night. "What do you mean, nothing's happened? James clearly told me that you are making out with some guy, and then you guys disappeared!" She said.
"Even I can't believe nothing happened between us! I could feel that he wanted me. When he started undressing me, I knew it was going to happen. I was completely lost in his touch, in his kisses... but then, out of nowhere, he stopped and said it was wrong." I scoff, recalling the humiliation of that moment. "Well, I wasn't about to beg him. I didn't want to look like some desperate virgin."
Who does that? He was all over me, making me feel wanted, and then... Boom... He pulls away like I'm some mistake.
"You know, I just can't still believe that that man refuses to sleep with you, because look at you, you're beautiful, sexy, hot! If I were him, I wouldn't miss the chance!" She screamed, and I responded with a giggle.
"Well, I'm embarrassed that he rejects me, but I'm also grateful that he didn't take advantage of me," I smirked. I kept talking to Kaila until I made the decision to head home and eat breakfast, but not before I noticed a little note on the table.
I apologize for not waking you up, and I'm heading home without giving you a proper goodbye. I had to leave right away due to an emergency. I made you breakfast—hope you like it. Also… about last night, I'm sorry. Take care and enjoy your day. ^_^
-G
My last memory of him is that. It's awkward to admit, but I wish he had simply told me how I might get in touch with him so I could express my gratitude for his thoughtful gestures.
Days, weeks, and years past but he disappeared like a wind passing by. Maybe it's foolish to still think about that night, about a man whose name I don't even know. But sometimes, in the quiet moments, I wonder—was he really just passing by, or did I miss something important? Either way, life moved forward. I moved forward.
Even though that distracts me in some ways, I forget it every time I'm busy sketching those clothes I'm passionate about making.
I tried to push him out of my mind, but every night, my dreams remind me of that one fleeting moment. Yet, life goes on, and I've built something incredible from my passion.
It's been five years, and I'm proud of everything I've achieved so far. I run a small clothing business which clothes I design and make myself. Last year, I made quite a buzz on social media after uploading some of my completed designs. Lots of models, influencers, professionals, reach out to me to make their dream clothes.
Well, it's a lot to handle, but just like what they said, if you love what you're doing, even if you're tired, what you're passionate about is also something that makes you comforted and vanishes all your tiredness.
As I'm busy sketching our new designs, someone knocks on my door. "Good morning, Ms. Brooks. Are you busy? I have an important business update regarding a potential collaboration," Kaila said in an excited but professional tone. I smiled as she's being professional when it comes to work.
"Good morning, Kaila! Come in, what's the update?" I curiously asked when I saw a glimpse of joy in her eyes as she handed me the document she was holding.
My eyes widen and my heart races as I read my number one role model's name.
Reina Moreau
"I received an inquiry from Ms. Reina Moreau's team. She's interested in collaborating on a limited-edition collection that pairs her jewelry with your designs. They're aiming for a high-profile launch with media coverage," A wave of disbelief and joy crashed over me, making my hands tremble as I held the document. My vision blurred with unshed tears.
Was this really happening?
"Oh my god, Kai! This is the moment we've been waiting for!" We both hug each other. "They are proposing a co-branded campaign. I reviewed their initial terms, but we should discuss our brand positioning before finalizing anything." She explained, but I'm too happy to even process if this is really true.
"Please, set up a meeting with her team," I breathe heavily, still not processing what's happening.
"Copy. I'll coordinate with her team and send you the agenda. Also, I'll draft a press release in case we move forward with this collaboration." She gave me another warm smile and patted my shoulder.
I stared at the magazine where Ms. Moreau is featured. I pick up the magazine and hug it.
You're the one who inspired me to become a fashion designer, and you don't know how this news makes me so happy. I promise I won't disappoint you.