Ellinor chuckled, âWow, youâve got some serious fashion smarts, huh? Recognizing the brand and collection just like that!â
Aunt Bluna replied elegantly, I attended the launch event for this Comi ensemble in person, so it left quite an impression. Ms. Mendoza, you have impeccable taste. The dress suits you wonderfully, and you wear it even better than the model did.â
Ellinor took the compliment in stride, grinning widely, âThanks, youâre too kind.â
Aunt Blina admired Ellinorâs grace and poise, giving her a once-over before extending an invitation, Iâm Bluna Howard, editor-in-chief of the weekly Fashion Pyramid. Ms. Mendoza, would you be interested in modeling for our magazine?
While Ellinor wasnât particularly tall, she had a fantastic figure and striking features.
But she politely declined. Iâm sorry, I just started working at Mr. Howards compary and Iâm not considering changing jobs at the moment.â
Aunt Bluna looked slightly disappointed, âYou have such a great image; itâs such a waste for you to work as a secretary!â
Ellinor kept her smile. Iâm honored by your praise. Even though Iâm not looking to change jobs, Iâd be happy to help out in my spare timeâ
With that, she turned to Balfour, Mr. Howard, would it be okay if I took on a part time job?
Before Balfour could answer, Aunt Bluna cut in with an air of authority. Donât bother asking him. He wouldnât dare say no, would he? What reason would he have to object to his employee helping me out?
Ms. Mendoza, give me your number. Iâll be in touch.â
Balfour was helpless and didnât say anything Ellinor took Aunt Blunaâs phone and keyed in her number Aunt Bluna looked at Ellinor with satisfaction and began liking her more and more. She had a familiar feeling about this young woman but couldnât quite put her finger on what it was Haillie, who was standing nearby, was green with envy watching Ellinor easily win Aunt Blunaâs approval.
Aunt Bluna was a renowned editor of a top fashion magazine, nicknamed the âFashion Devilâ in the industry. Those who made it onto the pages of Fashion Pyramid were either global superstars or the elite.
Haillie thought, âWhatâs so special about Ellinor? Sheâs a plain Jane How could she be a model for Fashion Pyramid?
Patricia stepped forward, smiling sweetly. Aunt Bluna, I didnât know your company needed models. Iâve had a lot of free time since coming back to the country Iâd be happy to help out, that way you wouldnât have to bother Balfourâs secretary. With how busy things are at Balfours company. Ellinor might get overwhelmed if she had to model on the sideâ
Aunt Bluna looked at Patricia, her serious expression not portraying much warmth, âPatri, itâs not that I donât want to use you, but your image doesnât quite suit the style of Fashion Pyramid.â
Patriciaâs smile faltered, and she nodded slightly, looking a bit hurt, Iâm sorry Aunt Bluna. I assumed too much and thought I could be of help.â
Haillie couldnât help defending Patricia, âAunt Bluna, are you saying Patricia isnât beautiful enough?
Donât forget, she was a finalist in the Miss World pageant! If she hadnât had to withdraw because of health issues, she wouldâve been the winner for sure!â
âAnd what good would that have done?â Aunt Bluna looked thoughtful as she regarded Haillie, then turned back to Patricia with a hint of disdain in her eyes, âPatri is beautiful, but she lacks a certain self-
confidence and freedom. She doesnât have the standout quality Iâm looking for. Fashion Pyramids style is all about being independent, free, and different. She doesnât have that, and thereâs no need to force it. Itâs better for her to focus on her health at home.â