You have potential. Don't waste it

It was an early morning, and I found myself awake long before my usual time. I lay in bed, scrolling through Instagram on a fake account I had created to remain anonymous. My finger paused on a photo of Elena Vargas, the new model who had been occupying my thoughts more than I cared to admit. In the picture, she was with a young man, both smiling brightly. 

"Why am I only thinking of that girl now? I don't even know her," I muttered to myself, feeling an odd pang of something I couldn't quite identify. Annoyed, I tossed my phone aside and rose from bed.

My bedroom was spacious and luxurious, reflecting my status. The king-sized bed was draped in high-thread-count sheets, and the walls were adorned with modern art. The large windows offered a stunning view of the city skyline, though it was still dark outside. I headed to the en suite bathroom, which was equally opulent, with marble countertops and a rainfall shower.

I stepped into the shower, letting the hot water cascade over me. It was a brief moment of solitude before the day's chaos. As I dressed, I chose a perfectly tailored suit in deep navy, pairing it with a crisp white shirt and a silk tie. My shoes, polished to a mirror shine, completed the look. I checked my reflection in the mirror, ensuring everything was immaculate. My expression was as cold and composed as ever, betraying none of the turmoil I felt inside.

Descending the grand staircase, I ignored the servants who were already bustling about. My Lamborghini awaited me in the driveway, its sleek lines glistening under the garage lights. I slid into the driver's seat, enjoying the feel of the leather against my skin. The engine roared to life, and I sped off towards my office.

I arrived at Steele Enterprises in a surprisingly good mood, though I made sure to maintain my usual cold demeanor. As I stepped out of the car, Lydia approached me, her face as impassive as ever.

"Good morning, Ms. Steele," she greeted me. "The meeting with Elena Vargas is scheduled for this afternoon. It will be her first time posing as a professional model."

"Okay," I replied curtly, dismissing her with a nod. Lydia turned and left, leaving me to my thoughts.

The morning passed quickly, filled with meetings and paperwork. I barely paid attention to the discussions around me, my mind drifting back to Elena. When the afternoon finally arrived, I didn't bother waiting for my current meeting to end. Rising abruptly, I left my office, ignoring the startled looks from my colleagues.

I headed straight to my car and drove to the location of the photoshoot. The drive took about thirty minutes, giving me just enough time to steel myself for the encounter. When I arrived, I parked and walked into the building, my heels echoing on the polished floor.

I approached the receptionist, who looked up in surprise. "Announce my arrival. I want to see the new model," I ordered.

"Of course, Ms. Steele," she stammered, but I was already walking past her, following the corridor to the studio.

The secretary hurried after me, catching up just as we reached the studio door. "Carmen Steele will be here shortly. She mentioned she wanted to see your new model," she managed to say before I stepped inside.

The studio was buzzing with activity. Photographers and assistants moved around, setting up equipment and adjusting lights. My eyes scanned the room, landing on Elena. She was standing in front of a large backdrop, wearing an emerald green dress with intricate beading and a flowing train. It was a statement piece, designed to captivate. Her heels matched the

dress in a deep green hue, and her hair was styled into loose, voluminous curls. The makeup artist had added a touch of shimmer to her eyes and a nude gloss to her lips. She looked absolutely breathtaking.

As I entered, the room seemed to hush slightly, all eyes turning towards me. Elena was in the midst of a pose, her eyes focused and her expression serene. When she noticed me, a flicker of recognition and perhaps nervousness crossed her face, but she quickly composed herself.

"Ms. Steele," the photographer, Alexei, greeted me warmly. "Thanks to your recommendation, I've managed to capture some absolutely incredible photos today."

I gave a curt nod, my eyes flickering back to Elena briefly. "I trust your judgment," I said, my voice as cold and controlled as ever. "He's known for his eye for potential."

Alexei beamed at the compliment. "Elena has been a pleasure to work with. She's got a natural talent and a great look. I think you'll be very pleased with the results."

I looked at Elena again, my expression inscrutable. "I look forward to seeing them," I replied.

I could feel the weight of my gaze unsettling her. This unexpected connection made the whole situation even more surreal. As she stood there in the dazzling emerald dress, the reality of the moment hit me – this could be her breakthrough, her chance to step into a new world.

Alexei clapped his hands together, breaking the silence. "Alright, let's get this final set done. Elena, you're doing fantastic. Let's make this one unforgettable."

She nodded, trying to refocus on the task at hand. My presence was maybe too much for her, maybe I was putting a little bit pression on her.

With renewed determination, she moved back into position. Alexei began snapping photos again, and she gave it her all, channeling every bit of confidence and poise she had. The dress, the set, the atmosphere – everything came together in a perfect blend of elegance and allure.

As the shoot wrapped up, Alexei looked at the images on his camera, a satisfied smile on his face. "You've done an incredible job, Elena. These photos are going to be amazing."

I, who had been watching closely, finally spoke, my voice so cold it felt like ice. "Well done, Elena. I'm impressed."

My words, though few, held a weight that made her eyes light up. Coming from me, they meant more than she could have ever imagined.

As the team began to pack up, I approached her, feeling a strange mix of emotions. "I'll be keeping an eye on your progress," I said, my tone softer but still laced with my characteristic edge. "You have potential. Don't waste it."

She nodded, a determined look in her eyes. "Thank you. I won't."

With that, I gave a final nod and turned to leave. The unsettling feelings remained, but so did a curious sense of anticipation. This was just the beginning for Elena Vargas, and I had a feeling she was going to make a significant impact in the industry. And, perhaps, on me as well.