CHAPTER 225: CHAPTER 225 - FINAL TOUCHES, FINAL JITTERS... BUT NOT MINE!

"Can we please focus on the styling so I can make it in time?"

I try to redirect, but I can manage no real heat in it. Her enthusiasm is very infectious, even if the topic makes me want to crawl toward the nearest cave. Just knowing that she might think it was the start of ’more’ between the two of us.

"Well, we have plenty of time. I already ordered a rideshare for us. So, do you want me to do your makeup, or-"

"I don’t really wear any. We didn’t... where I’m from, cosmetics weren’t really used."

Some of the Duskpaw Omegas did use a sort of black smear under their eyes to lower the glare from the sun when hunting in daytime. And I certainly did wear just a little around my eyes and lips for some occasions in my original body.

In situations that required me to give off a certain look, for diplomacy. And other than skimming past some of the tutorials that were part of the modeling information I was sent, I have not exactly went out to buy any and try it out.

"Seriously? Well, that’s actually perfect. Natural beauty is very in right now and showing up as a blank canvas is always best. Just a little lip balm and you’re golden."

Anise applied something to my lips that tasted faintly of vanilla and honey, then stepped back to survey her total work. When she took a picture, I just knew - while I was still thinking about what to do with all of my photos, *that* one is probably going right to that silly group chat.

"Gorgeous. Mr. Ember Beau Laurent is going to owe me for bringing you."

She spoke his name with a strange dramatic flair to it, then handed me my new bag with its top handle. The salesperson called it ’oxblood’ in color - with smooth grain leather, stainless steel hardware and was ’half moon’ in shape... though it seemed to stretch slightly at the corners into more of a crescent.

Surprisingly a lot less expensive than some of the bags with the gaudy logos on them.

I adjust the detachable strap on it slightly in the mirror so that it sits tight on my shoulder and the structure rests attractively against my side. The color was the main reason we went with this skirt.

"Just remember - you’re not asking for a favor today. You’re offering them the opportunity to work with someone extraordinary."

"Well, yes. I know that. Still, thank you for the compliment."

"Shall we head over to the office? I’m sure he’s probably waiting impatiently already."

"You really don’t have-"

A finger is placed right on the center of my forehead as her pale blues stare me down. I look back unflinchingly... well, mostly. I did shut myself up as she intended.

"I know I don’t. I also know he is the type that will take great care of a new face that he needs and his people wouldn’t dare pull any tricks after I’ve warned him. But I want to be there to see and negotiate for you in person."

"Why?"

I question it without thinking and, perhaps understandably, get her light brown polished nail flicked directly into that same spot over my brow. Certainly made me instinctively pinch my eyes closed that time, even though it doesn’t hurt.

She also doesn’t say anything and just walks over to grab her things while waving me to follow.

Well, I guess that’s fine. I sat the pace last night, so it’s nice to follow someone else’s lead for a little while.

⧖ ☾ ❄ ☽ ⧖

The address Anise provided the driver led us to a old style building in the arts district - exposed brick, high ceilings, and lots of modern touches that shows the inside at least was converted.

Helene would have loved to get a look at all the architecture I’ve seen since coming here. Not that I find it uninteresting, but even if I can recognizes it... the idea of industrial era chic meeting the refined elegance of more modern-day sensibilities and materials doesn’t ’wow’ me as much.

Still, it was enough to see that it was not some cramped back room operation. Even if the entire building is likely a shared one, it’s a nice workplace.

"Third floor, Studio C."

Anise murmured this to herself as she pressed a button on the elevator. I couldn’t help but smirk... C for Citra. Easy enough to remember and it feels like a small bit of fate.

"You look perfect, but Ember can be... particular about first impressions. Of course, you did well with Genzaburo too, so I’m not sure why I’m suddenly nervous."

Sighing, I reach over and catch the blondes forearm before turning and patting it softly. I smile long enough to reassure her before twisting it into a sneer.

"If you are here for moral support, then it would be best to not need some of it yourself."

Letting go when the elevator opened, we step out directly into a reception area flooded with natural light. A sleek looking receptionist’s desk sat unmanned near the lift exit, but voices drifted from an open doorway marked with a simple placard.

My enhanced hearing picked up at least four distinct voices coming from this [Studio C] - three women and one man with a crisp accent of some sort that carried even in the more casual conversation I could make out.

Though it did have a certain authoritative quality that was hard to set aside. One that suggested he was used to being listened to and didn’t like being argued back with. I’m not sure if I like how that reminds me of my father, the Fox King, but then again...

I guess most people compare those in power over them to parents - the people who held the most power for so long in their formative years. It gives them a quick conceptualization of how to officially interact with the person.

So far I could only tell that if he was the type to try and intimidate me, I would likely disappoint him.