We landed in New York with a thick gloom. I had Grandma arrange for multiple designers to meet us today at a loft we had in the city- something I had found out about.
I woke Kelly up while I prayed she'd feel better. I certainly didn't want to have to buy multiple dresses, plus ours, because she got sick.
“How you feeling?” I asked with hopeful eyes.
“Much better. Thanks,” she said through a yawn.
“We're here!” I exclaimed as I pulled open the blinds.
“Where's here?” Another yawn.
“New York! Silly.” I beamed.
“Oh my God, Emma. You took me to New York?” Kelly's face was torn between excitement and nerves.
“Yup,” I said as I left the back room. “Come on, the driver's here.”
She scrambled out of the bed. “Private planes, random trips to New York, drivers … jeeze, Em, I could get used to your life.” She bounced next to me.
“Well, you'll love my next surprise. But we must eat first.” It was lunch time and I knew that if we ate our measurements would allow us some wiggle room, if the designers decided to make the dresses tighter for effect.
The drive into the city was quick and Kelly spent the entire time looking out the window. I could easily see myself, back on my first trip here.
I sat quietly and allowed her all the excitement the trip was bringing her. I thought about New Year's with Dom, again.
When we got closer to the noisy city I decided it was time to make a decision about where to eat. “Kelly, would you like to eat at a fancy posh place, or a little hole in the wall diner?” I wanted a feel for how she'd do later with the designers.
She clutched her bag and I could see her calculating cost.
“Don't worry about cost either. You're on my tab today.” I smiled encouragingly.
“I don't know which is better.” Her voice was a little less tense.
Gonna have to take her out more.
“Hmm. I personally think the secret places taste better, but the posh ones are an experience. So, do you want an awesome taste or an interesting experience?” I looked at her seriously.
She started laughing. “Oh. Emma. You. Look. So. Silly. When. You. Look. Serious,” she said through her giggles.
I rolled my eyes at her. I was glad she was having a good time.
“Well?”
“Um. I don't really know much about food, besides what Mom cooks. Let's eat at some place small and different.” She was pleased with her bold decision.
“Okay.”
I told the driver the address of a place Dom and I had discovered, and then told him to come back for us in an hour.
Kelly and I got out of the car in a shabby little neighborhood, which was gritty, and had stray pets roaming around. I led Kelly three doors down the street. The exterior was covered in graffiti and the glass had been painted black.
Kelly stopped as soon as she realized my intent to go inside. “Em. You sure you want to eat here?” Her boldness was fading.
“Yes, and so do you. Their food is awesome,” I said.
“But …”
“No. No 'but'. We are eating here. Stop being so nervous. You're beautiful and need to develop the attitude that goes along with it. We'll start now … shoulders back, head up, and walk with some 'tude.” I instructed her out of her slumped posture.
“Emma,” she pleaded.
“I thought you wanted to be a model or something?” I asked.
“I do. But …” She looked down.
“Then you have to learn. Just follow my example.” I squared my shoulders and tried to seem taller- like Kelly was. I set my face to look like I was somehow worthy of a runway. Kelly looked at me in astonishment.
I walked in and she followed while trying to look the same ultimately she did look like a model.
The place was packed and we squeezed into the line. They had all sorts of food and my mouth was watering by the time we got up to the front. I ordered us some hot chocolate- I had decided it was the best in New York- and two 'house special' sandwiches, with a side of fries to share.
The room looked small because it was dim and lit up by paper lanterns. Most of the tables were full, but I found us one squashed in between two other tables; one with two 'drags' that were having an animatedly heated discussion, and the other had two nuns that were sipping hot chocolate while making it look like a sin. I fell in love further with this place.
Kelly lost some of her created self once she sat down and was exposed to our dining companions. It was hilarious to watch. We ate in silence as she kept glancing, back and forth, between the tables.
The driver arrived on time as we stepped out of the restaurant. I smiled to myself knowing I had expanded Kelly's horizons a bit.
We climbed into the back of the black town car, and I instructed the driver to the loft. Being as he was our regular driver, he knew exactly where to go.
The building was a standard convert- from the outside it looked like an old warehouse, but the inside held several studio-lofts.
We got out of the car and I pulled my key out of my purse as I approached the monstrously heavy, black door. Once unlocked, it took both of us to get it open- yes, even with my awesome vampire strength I have to pretend I can't get a little fire door open.
Panting from the strain, we got onto the old freight elevator. Every creak and crack the thing made up to the third floor had Kelly jumping. I was so afraid the girl would have a heart attack.
She leapt out as soon as the doors opened as I sauntered out and walked to the door in front of us.
Although it appeared to be the same kind of door as the front one, it opened gently. I was surprised that Kelly hadn't bombarded me with questions- as soon as we walked inside her face lit with confusion. It could have been the three people standing there or the racks of dresses they had placed by the big windows that did it.
Greetings Emma. A tall slender woman said with a chilly cold voice.
Emma! Shrieked a short man wearing only varying shades of pink.
Another merely nodded at me.
Hello all. Please use words as my friend is human, I said before I spoke aloud. “Hey, everybody. We're here! Let's get this party started!” I chimed. I was worried that they'd say something about Kelly being human, but it all went off smoothly.
“Emma!” The man in pink squealed once more- later I found out his name was Claude.
“Hiya,” I said with a wave.
“Greetings, Emma Hutchinson. You're Grandmother has said much about you,” cold voice said- her name was Gretchen.
Another silent nod from Chris.
I smiled. These were all well known designers in the vampire world, but they didn't exist in the human world. Our talents are often too good and draw too much attention to us, so we stick to our own kind- at least that is what I was told.
Kelly finally started to look normal and asked what was going on. I explained to her that we were getting dresses today. She squeaked about something, which I ignored and asked the designers to start the process.
It took about an hour for each one to get our measurements, and, of course, they each had to do their own. Afterwards we sat on a couch and listened to them discuss different elements with us. It was really boring to be honest.
After we had each decided the kind of style we would want if we were to design a perfect dress- Kelly's was modest and mine was over the top- we actually got to look at the dresses they had brought with them.
Claude's designs were very feminine and elegant. He had a few dresses that were modest enough for Kelly to like them and they were pulled out. But he was too girly for me- too much lace and trim and stuff that would surely cause me to kill someone.
Gretchen's stuff was very conservative, but super unique. Kelly found two dresses to try on and I grabbed one. Chris's stuff was my heaven. He had a lot of dark colors, and his stuff varied from the feminine to the masculine- yes, he had dresses that men could happily wear. The
style went from Gothic to classic. I was in love.
I pulled out multiple dresses, but I favored one more than the others. It was a short, all black, satin dress and it flared out at the bottom, plus, when you spun in it, the entire bottom became a red and black spiral. The red material was pleated into the skirt. I loved it.
Kelly and I tried on dresses until the end of the day. The designers added in their comments constantly. I decided on Chris' piece that I loved. Kelly chose a silk form fitted spaghetti strap dress that was as long as she was tall. The color was a mix between robin's egg and periwinkle. I know, it's an odd combination, but it was very pretty. Take the two crayons and rub them on a piece of paper and you'll understand. There was a slit up each side to her thigh- not as conservative as I would've figured, but it did come from Claude's stuff. She looked beautiful- truly like a model.
Emma? It was Chris' voice, soft and gentle. The kind of voice one would not expect to go along with this line of clothes. He had probably already encountered this problem and thus had decided not to talk with his clients.
Yes, Chris. My voice smiled at him.
Is your friend a model? I could tell he clearly hoped the answer would be 'no'.
I did not disappoint. Sadly to say no, but she would love to pursue that career. I could only hope that my new acquaintances would bring some good to others.
I would love to help her in that path. Does she come here often? Excitement filled his thoughts.
I don't believe so. Why? I wondered what New York would have to do with anything.
I was thinking of starting an agency. Since I'm a photographer, I wouldn't need to send my models out. I want her as one of my first models. You know we have connections. She would make more than with a regular agency, I assure you.
I hated being bartered with, especially when it ultimately wouldn't affect me one damn bit.
I think that it would be best if you discussed it with her. But be fair with her, because I will know your true intentions. I made my implication clear.
I understand completely. I would do the same if I were in your shoes. He smiled at me. “Kelly, have you ever thought about modeling?” His voice was like a gentle summer breeze.
“I, eh, modeling, yeah. I mean, I have thought about it.” The end held some confidence.
“I am starting an agency and I would love to have you as one of my first models,” he purred.
I kept checking his thoughts to make sure everything was a-okay, it was.
“Really? How would the client flow be?”
Oh my God, did Kelly actually ask a logical question? I was dumbstruck.
“Well, I have connections with L'Oreal, Vogue, numerous top designers that have runway shows all the time, and I do lots of business with Paris, London, Tokyo, and other places. I have already received confirmation from all these places and many more elite ones that will pay well and treat my models well.” He sounded like he was doing a job interview.
“I don't live in the city. In fact, I live about three hours away by private plane.” She pouted just a little- the effect was perfect.
“That won't be a problem. When you have graduated, we will move you to New York and get you located near the studio, at my expense, of course. Once your modeling starts to make a profit, we can come to an honest and fair agreement for rent. As most agencies will take twenty percent of your earnings, and then try and figure out other ways to screw you out of your money, I will only ask for ten. I will draw up a contract and have it sent down to Emma's lawyers. If you don't mind of course, Emma, as I figure that you, Kelly, don't have a lawyer to make sure everything is fair?” He was moving quickly, but it was all on the level- he didn't need the money yet the desire to help humans flowed from him.
“That would be fine, if Emma doesn't mind?” Kelly looked at me.
“Of course it would be fine. That's what our suits are for.” I beamed.
“Excellent. After the contract has been agreed on, then I will come down and get some shots of you to start showing clients.” He was excited again.
“Okay.” Kelly blushed.
“Now, Emma. I will have your dress ready for you by the time you specified you needed it, so don't worry about it. I will call a week in advance so you know the progress.” He kissed my hand and began packing everything up.
“The same goes for me, Kelly darling. Do you want me to send it to you or over to your little friend's?” Claude sashayed about.
“Um, I think it should come to my house. That way I can be ready when you guys come and pick everyone up at my house.” She looked at me for approval because I was renting a limo for prom and taking everyone with me. I nodded.
“Ah, wonderful!” He got all excited and went to get his stuff together.
“Now, Gretchen, before you go. I understand that you do shoes as well.” I asked the chilly woman.
“Yeah. I make special shoes.” Her voice held a slight German accent.
“Well, I would love it if you would make our shoes.” I smiled.
“That I can do, what do you want?” She was a little more excited that she had been chosen for something as well.
“I would love simple, black Mary Jane's, with red soles. I would like a three inch heel,” I said as I sketched it out really quickly.
“Piece of cake. What about you?” Gretchen barked at Kelly.
“Um, I want the shoe to be the same color as the dress. I would also like it to be heeled with two and a half inches. And like a strappy sandal.” She bit her lip as she tried to figure out what would look good.
I quickly sketched another shoe, I did it based on what Kelly said, and then I showed it to her. “Like this, honey?”
“Yes. Perfect. Emma, you're a genius.” She glowed.
“So, like this.” I showed it to Gretchen.
“I can do. Let me measure your feet and then you can go.” We sat down quickly as Gretchen got something from her stuff. She took our measurements fast and accurately, and then dismissed us.
“Okay, well, we can go now. The car should be downstairs,” I told Kelly.
She nodded.
We reached the car without any problems and then drove to the airport. It was already five so we wouldn't be home any sooner than eight. I ordered some food for the flight back and waited out the drive to the airport. Kelly was quiet the entire time.
The plane was ready and waiting when we got there. We climbed aboard and then sat to eat dinner- which was delicious.
After we ate Kelly looked at me.
“What's up?” I asked with raised eyebrows.
“I wanted to thank you … and … I was really wondering why you were doing all of this?” Her eyes tried to plead with me to understand that she wasn't ungrateful, just confused.
“You are very welcome … and I am doing this because no one should ever have to have a lesser time because they don't have the funds. My family has a lot of funds, so I am allowing the only person that has been with me through all my chaos, to enjoy some of it.” I smiled and hoped it made sense to her.
She nodded. “Well, thank you, and I am glad I could be there.” She smiled and leaned her head back.
We got back home around eight and I dropped her off in front of the theater where her mom was waiting. She waved to me before they pulled away. It was strange to have a parent being nice to me especially the parent of the kid I bit in kindergarten. Oh well. I went home.
Chapter Fourteen
The weeks passed and soon it was the day of prom. The senior class was excused from classes because none of us would show up anyways.
Dominic and I got ready and met downstairs. I tried to make as grand of an entrance as possible- as I walked down the stairs, I swirled my dress from side to side. I hoped it looked like I was walking in a whirlwind of black and red. My hair was twisted in the front in rows that led back to a bun of spilling curls. My lips were red to match my dress and my eyeliner was a gentle black. I had applied a light body glitter so that, as I went un
der direct lights, I sparkled. I finished coming down the stairs with a curtsy.
Emma Mary Hutchinson, you are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. Ti amo. Dom's voice was like gentle strokes to my ego.
“Why, thank you, kind Sir. I do have to say that you look quite smashing in your black tux with red tie.” I smiled at him and kissed his cheek.
“Well, my Lady, your chariot waits.” He took my arm in his and walked out to the limo.
The limo was a stretch and all black, with deep tinted windows. There were two sunroofs and the driver stood with the back door open.
We climbed in and found the interior to be very posh. There was sparkling cider- as per my request- comfy leather seats, and classical music playing. I sighed as we drove away from my house. This night will go well.
I do agree. I am sure it will go as you planned for them- for us. He was being gentle with me because I knew I had gone a little overboard with the prom- I so didn't care.
I curled into him and waited for the others to join us.
We pulled up to Kelly's and they poured out of her small house.
We got out of the limo and everyone stared. We walked over to them.
“What's up? Everyone ready?” I asked.
“Yes, Emma. As soon as we snap a few shots,” Kelly's mom said as a flash went off too close to my face.
After what felt like a million snapshots, we all piled into the back of the limo. There was plenty of room for us all and soon the back was filled with chatter and compliments all around. Everyone loved Kelly's dress; she looked at me with knowing eyes. I smiled. Dominic and I were told that we looked like the perfect matching couple. I knew our effect could be startling, but I hoped it wouldn't cause too many problems.
The hotel was a large chain and it cost a small fortune to get the prom held there, but when we arrived, I realized it was well worth it.
Bella Notte Page 28
