Chapter 28 Part 1

Chapter 28 Part 1: Fall

I woke up early the next day. I have a feeling that my day will be good.

At seven in the morning, Kuya Dominic sent me a message that I should be at the set before 8. I have to shoot a commercial video for a well-known beverage company.

I scratched my eyes and stretched my arms. When I checked my cellphone on the bedside table, there was a message from Mew.

"Good morning baby. I am now at the airport. Will take off in a short while. See you later. I miss that ass 😉😋"

That was the content of the message. I blushed.

What a message! It's still early!

It was sent 6 hours ago. The time zone difference is six hours. He sent it from the Philippines at seven o'clock in the morning and I received it at around 1 am.

And since it takes 18 hours to get here, Mew will arrive tonight.

I have three events for today. The first one is the commercial shoot. Second is a photoshoot and interview for a Spanish magazine because they want to feature me in their magazine. And third is the prestigious awards show here in Spain where I was nominated in the category "Influential Model of the Year." If I win the award, I will be the first non-Spanish winner. That is why, I am quite nervous. I'm sure that a lot of personalities and artists all over Spain will attend, and I'm also sure well-known models are my opponents.

I decided to not reply to Mew because I was sure he would only receive it later when his plane lands.

After eating I took a shower and got ready. It was quarter to 8 when I arrived at the set. Kuya Dominic was already there waiting for me.

We went straight to the dressing room to fix me up.

While Kuya Dominic was fixing my hair, a staff member briefed me on what to do and what to say in the video.

It was ten minutes after eight o'clock when I finished preparing. The staff informed us that the director is not here yet so I took the time to check my Instagram account.

I noticed that many people tagged and mentioned me in different posts, but the photos were all the same.

It's my picture with Mew having sex at the poolside that has been the most talked picture in Spain since yesterday!

A lot were asking if it was really me in the picture. There were many people bashing me and calling me out for being indecent, but many of my fans are defending me.

I decided to reply to a news company to deny that it wasn't me in the picture. I hope this issue subsides soon.

"The director is here," said a staff so I went out of the dressing room.

I stood in front of the backdrop with a few extras and obeyed the director's orders.

"Remi Cola, the best cola in the world."

"Cut!" the director shouted. "Try harder Gulf. Your acting is not convincing!" he said sounding disappointed.

I nodded and tried harder.

This is not my first time doing a commercial video. I have accomplished many in the past. And I have never been told that what I do is not convincing. That was the first time! I felt ashamed.

The director decided that instead of the speaking lines, we should do the other parts instead.

There is a choreographed dance and song so we decided to shoot it first. The dance choreographer taught me the steps and some of the extras.

After an hour of practicing, the director said that we should start filming.

But when we were shooting, I was scolded a few times and I don't know why. Maybe this director woke up on the wrong side of the bed!

"What the hell, Gulf? Dance better! Tsk!"

"Can't you do better than that? I don't think viewers would want to buy our product with your dance."

"Can you be more graceful? You are the lead. You have to step up your game."

Those are the director's comments. Honestly, I see nothing wrong with my steps and the way I dance. Is this director angry with me or has a love life problem?

I feel so embarrassed because of the number of people who are present. The back-up dancers are already annoyed because we had to repeat the steps over and over again.

"What is wrong with you?" the director's shout echoed inside the set. I bowed my head in embarrassment.

"I'm sorry Señor." That was all I could say.

I couldn't smile properly anymore because of the shame I am feeling. I can hear the people whispering and I am sure that it was about me.

'Come on, Gulf. You have to satisfy the client!' I told myself.

This is the very first time that a client raised his voice at me and scolded me for my performance. I felt so embarrassed that I almost wanted to cry.

I want so bad to call Mew and tell him about this. And maybe he could comfort me right now. But he's 10,000 feet above the ground and there is no reception there!

Tears began to form in my eyes but I stopped myself from crying. I bit my lips to stop myself from whimpering and tried to hold back the tears.

I strived to give a better performance.

After a few retakes the director was finally satisfied.

Time for the speaking lines and the acting.

I feel so exhausted because of the dancing but we were already short of time because of the retakes so the director did not give us a break. I sighed.

So much for thinking that I'll have a great day!

I also had to repeat saying the lines several times because the director was hard to satisfy.

Later on, the owner of the company arrived and everyone at the set felt nervous. The very sophisticated old lady wearing a very sophisticated dress marched towards the hall. Behind her was her attendant. She raised an eyebrow as she stared at me.

"That is the model for the commercial? I thought he was supposed to be Spanish?" she commented and scolded the director.

"He's Asian, Mrs. Tana. But Gulf is very famous here in Spain. He's very influential."

"I don't want someone who's not Spanish to endorse my Spanish beverage. Plus, I heard that he has an issue circulating around? Something about public indecency? Replace him!" commanded the old woman.

I was surprised by what she said. Shame started to creep into my body.

"But-"

The director was cut off by the owner.

"I said I want someone who's Spanish with a clean reputation to endorse my Spanish beverage! Period! End of discussion. And you," she pointed at me. I swallowed a lump on my throat. "You are fired!"

I'm sure that everyone saw the shock on my face. I cannot believe this!

This is the first time I was fired from a project. All of my previous clients were beyond satisfied with my performances and all of my projects were all successful.

This is a big slap to my career. And this is so embarrassing!

But I have to get back up. I can't just let them ruin me.

"You are not firing me because I quit! Your beverage sucks anyway!" I remarked as I stormed back to the dressing room.

The owner was shocked by what she heard. Well, everyone was.

"How dare you!" she shouted but I ignored her.

I was silently crying inside the car while we were on our way to my next project. Kuya Dominic was the driver.

He's been trying to comfort me since we went out of my first project.

"It's okay Gulf. The soft drinks are not that good anyway. Plus, we will sue them for violating the contract."

"Don't bother Kuya. It will only affect me more. People will think that I'm not a good commercial model."

"Of course, they won't! There was no problem with your performance earlier. I don't know what's wrong with the director and that owner," he said in gritted teeth.

It made me cry even more.

"Stop crying or your eyes will be red. You still have a photoshoot and an interview for the magazine," he reminded me.

I tried to calm myself down because Kuya Dominic was right. I will only regret it later if I continue to cry. I can't afford to have my eyes swollen.

If only Mew was here. Sigh.

When we got to my second project for today I cried even more.

"The editor-in-chief said that he doesn't want to push through with the feature story anymore because of the issue you've been associated with yesterday. I'm sorry."

What the fuck?

Could this day get any worse?

"But it was not Gulf. He already denied it to the media," Kuya Dominic defended.

"Oh really? Then what about this?"

A staff showed us a picture of me with Hughie at the pool as I hugged him.

"Look at the guy's shirt. It's not the same shirt carrying the guy in that dark picture. So, it's obviously not Gulf and his friend," Kuya Dominic explained.

"The editor-in-chief does not care. He already told me that it's final and he's sorry about it. Have a nice day!" the staff said dismissively.

Kuya Dominic and I could not do anything but leave the building.

I feel discouraged with all that has happened today.

Who would have been so reluctant to take that picture and try to ruin my image and sabotage my work?

Could it be Aron? Well, I can think of no one else but him! He's sabotaging my work!

If he is envious, he should find someone and let them fuck him near the pool too! Just not Mew! He should not take pictures of me and spread it just to stain my image!

Now I'm having second thoughts if I should still attend the awards show tonight. Maybe I will not win the award so I shouldn't bother attending?

"Why won't you attend? I heard that you are the strongest nominee in your category. And I'm sure you will win! You have to be there. I know it's not your first awards show and not your first win, but this is the time to show people that you are not weak. "

"I might only receive criticisms. Perhaps it will be better if I stay in the condo instead?"

"No! You have to be there! The suit we have prepared is worth more than 5,000 euros so there is no way you are not attending that awards show."

"Fine."

So at six o'clock in the evening, I was already outside the La Constantine Building where the event will be held.

I got out of the car that Kuya Dominic rented to take me here.

All the cameras were already pointed at me the minute I stepped out of the car. I smiled as I graced the red carpet.

I wanted to bring Hughie with me tonight because I know he is part of my success. He was there when I started, when I was still a nobody, silently cheering and rooting for me. He was with me through every step of the way and I think he deserves to walk with me in this red carpet.

But he declined my request that he should join me tonight. For the reason that he has to do a lot of things for his work that's due tomorrow.

There is only one reason I can think of as to why he did not really join me tonight. The Hughie I know would ditch anything just to be here for me.

During my first commercial video shoot, he cancelled a corporate meeting with his boss because he wanted to be with me.

During my first runway appearance, he cancelled a meeting with one of their company's biggest investor just to be present on my big day.

And I am sure he can just cancel whatever it is he is working with tonight just to accompany me here.

So I can only think of one reason. He really is eager to forget about me.

He is trying to move on and I respect his decision and did not force him to come with me.

I did not tell Mew about this event before he left for Philippines because I did not want to disturb his responsibilities regarding work. I only told him about this event yesterday during our videocall and I am not sure if he would be here by then.

I want him to be here with me. Although he does not support some of my projects, especially daring ones, I know that he only wishes success in my career. It is my decision to leave this industry because I want to be in the Philippines full time to replace the vacated position after my father's death.

Mew is currently the CEO and COO of the company. Once we're back in PH, I will be the new COO or Chief Operating Officer.

As I walked through the red carpet, I had many fans who handed me a copy of the magazine where I was the cover. I once did a cover shoot for GQ Spain and my fans wanted me to sign their copies.

I smiled as I signed them one by one. The others asked for a selfie and I agreed.

When I reached the end of the red carpet, I stood in front of the backdrop where many photographers took my picture.

I stood there giving them a fierce look.

After a few shots, I decided to proceed to the function hall. The hall was decorated with elegant decorations. From chairs to chandeliers, you will know that this is one of the biggest events held here in Spain every year.

With more than two years of experience in modeling, this is my first time to get invited and attend this prestigious event.

Good thing Kuya Dominic forced me to be here because otherwise, I would really regret not attending.

I saw many famous artists. I even saw some casts of my favorite Spanish series "La Casa De Papel" present tonight.

But because I know that this is a very exclusive event covered by the media, I decided to keep quiet and behave. It's embarrassing if I ask to take a selfie with them.

An usher guided me to my chair.

On stage was a large LED screen where the nominees in each category will be displayed.

I was greeted by a few acquaintances I had worked with before.

After a short greeting, they also went to their respective seats.

Earlier, I noticed the murmuring of a few personalities while looking at me.

Maybe it's because of the spreading picture.

Yesterday, I did not really think that the picture could be very embarrassing. But now that even the big personalities are talking about it, I realized that it was indeed very embarrassing. Yes, it was not obvious that it was me. But based on their reactions, they are really convinced that I was the one on the picture.

"He's not even that handsome," I heard a model say.

"I agree. I don't get why he's so popular."

"Shut up guys. He's obviously much cuter and hotter than the two of you," a man defended and gave me a smile.

"He's involved in a fresh issue. Remember that picture I showed you earlier? That's him!"

I could hear those whispers from my back.

I just don't know why even for them, it's a big deal. Aren't they busy? And where is their class? Can't they be subtle about the fact that they are talking about me? Can they not keep their voices down?

So embarrassing! I felt so small here on my seat so I just bowed my head and did not bother listening. I wanted to leave so much but I knew it would be more embarrassing if I did. So even though my hands were shaking because of the embarrassment, I remained seated.

After two hours of waiting, the show finally got to the category in which I was nominated.

The embarrassment I had been feeling earlier was now gone and was replaced by nervousness.

"Buena noches!" the presenter began. "This year, Prestigiosos Premios de las Artes has chosen 5 models as nominees who showed exemplary and outstanding performance in the field of modeling. But there can only be one winner. Here are the nominees for Influential Model of the Year."

Everyone applauded.

The big LED screen showed the faces of the nominees including me.

I am not expecting that I will win especially that my opponents are pure Spanish. But those who kept talking about me earlier should watch out because when I win, I will surely hit them with the trophy.

"And the winner is ..."

The nervousness in my heart doubled.

"Gulf Chandler Gibson!"

I did not expect that! But the people's reaction was different.

The earlier euphoric venue fell silent and was replaced by murmurs.

I didn't want to go up on stage anymore but when the presenter called me again, I could not do anything.

"Mr. Gulf Chandler, please come up stage."

My hands were shaking and my knees felt weaker as I walked closer to the stage. With every step I took, I grew weaker.

I heard the audience boo when I received the trophy.

I forced myself to approach the podium to give a message but no word came out of my mouth.

"Booooo," the people said

"G-good evening e-everyone," my voice was shaking.

I just wanted to disappear like a bubble at that time. I've been put to shame since this morning. What is wrong with this day?

This is already too much for me. I can't believe people are booing me just because of the photo. I have worked so hard and I believe I deserve this award.

Why are they being mean?

I wiped the tears that fell from my eyes.

A few moments later, the crowd began to laugh.

Someone flashed on the LED screen the circulating picture of Mew and I by the poolside.

Everyone laughed mockingly.

I swallowed a big lump on my throat.

"Boo! You indecent model! You don't deserve the award!" cried a woman.

"Yeah. You're a bad influence!"

"Boooo!"

My face turned red because of the embarrassment. I also felt the gradual blurring of my vision. I could not hold back my tears anymore.

My tears fell down like waterfalls.

It's so painful how they judged me just because of one photo. They have overlooked all of my achievements just because of a single mistake.

And to think that these people are in the same industry as me? Them trying to bring me down? What about other people? I am pretty sure that they would react in a more violent way.

The booing became louder.

In that moment, I have decided that there is no use in giving a message and thanking the people for this award. They don't want me to have it.

With a heavy heart, I forced myself to turn my back on them.

The people fell silent.

I felt someone hold my wrist and pull me back to the podium.

I was surprised to see who it was.

Mew.

Mew with his calm but serious face.

"Stay there," he ordered me and turned to the podium and the crowd.

His right hand is holding my left hand. He squeezed it before speaking. On my other hand was the trophy.

The warmth of his hand brought comfort to my trembling body. Now that Mew is here, the bad feeling seems to have faded.

"Shame on you people for booing at my husband!" he spoke on the microphone.

Everyone was shocked with Mew's words. I'm not sure if they were surprised by the 'shame on you' or because they found out that Mew is my husband.

But during that moment, I felt stronger. I felt butterflies in my stomach and gradually calmed down.

"I have witnessed all of Gulf's struggles. When he started modeling, I was there during his first audition, his first commercial shoot, his first billboard pictorial, his first runway project, and all of his firsts in this industry."

Now I am surprised. What is this? He is saying that he was there during my first times?

"Yes, baby. I was there." He looked at me and kissed my hand he was holding. "I was always there watching you from afar. I wanted so bad to cheer for you, but I knew that it wasn't the right time."

I shook my head, not believing what he said. I cried even more.

"I was there, unnoticed. Hiding because I did not want to make you feel uncomfortable. I have pictures if you do not believe me," he said with a bit of tears at the side of his eyes.

He wiped my tears. I noticed the gradual change in the people's reaction. If before they were angry with me, now that has changed because of everything Mew just said.

Mew looked me in the eyes before facing the crowd again.

"Gulf started from scratch. With no one to back him up into the industry. It was all hard work. His passion, dedication and talent were his weapons to be where he is now."

I noticed that some of the audience members were already crying with us.

"I wasn't really there beside him during those times, but I was honestly always there watching his every move, hoping that one day, he will be successful." His voice broke. He squeezed my hand again.

I was just quietly sobbing behind him.

"Gulf's influence and contribution into the modeling industry is a proof that he deserves this award. You will see his billboards in almost every street in this city. You will see his face every day in social media. And you also see his face on tv and in your favorite shopping boutiques because he is their endorser. "

This award show has become dramatic.

"Gulf is very talented. Don't let yourselves be eaten by your anger just because of a small issue. You have to open your mind to appreciate him. Honestly, I see no reason why Gulf does not deserve this award. But if you still think so, then be it. I know Gulf does not need your approval. He knows it to himself. Gracias! "

Mew didn't even wait for me to speak. He pulled me away from the stage and we left the crowd in awe. We are all equally speechless because of everything Mew just said.

I was never blown away with words before. Just now.

When we got off the stage, I couldn't help myself but hug Mew.

I cried on his shoulders. He in turn tried to calm me down while kissing my cheek. I cried even more.

Everything that just happened started to sink in. Mew saved me. He saved me from those mean people.

"Is it true that you were there in my events?" I asked even though I was still crying.

"Yes. I was always there baby. I went back and forth between Philippines and here. I wanted to be there for you. But the time was just not right. Aron was still powerful. I had to pretend that I was here for business trips. "

"Why didn't I see you even once?"

"Because I always kept my distance. I knew how much I hurt you. I didn't want you to freak out. Shhh. Stop crying." He caressed me gently.

I hugged him tighter. He did the same.

We were just there. Hugging each other like we were the only people in the world. It did not matter if people were looking at us.

The hug lasted for about five minutes. He waited for me to calm down first.

We were about to leave when Mew's cellphone rang.

"Let me take this call first baby and then we'll go. I'll call the valet for my car."

I just nodded. Mew kissed my cheek before leaving.

The show resumed. I was quietly watching from the side when a staff member approached me.

"Excuse me, senor. Someone told me that he is expecting you at the rooftop. He said it's a surprise." said the man who approached me.

I frowned.

Is this another one of Mew's gimmick? I can't believe that he still had the time to pull off such surprises. Was he not tired from the trip?

I turned to the elevator and pressed the button for the rooftop.

I wonder what this gimmick is. Mew is really full of surprises. I thought that this day is the worst but because of Mew, it has actually become one of the best days of my life.

I still feel the butterflies in my stomach because of how he defended me earlier from the crowd.

I was so excited to reach the top.

When I got there, I immediately looked for him.

"Mr. Matthew Darth Fletcher, you are always full of surprises!" I joked while looking for him. "Stop hiding! What is your surprise this time?"

I looked up and saw the beauty of the sky. The moon and the stars made the sky so bright.

"Show yourself, Mew!" I shouted as I stared at the beautiful and overlooking view of the city.

I laid the trophy on the floor before I looked down below the building and saw how elevated we are. The rooftop is in the 52nd floor. I was overwhelmed by what I saw.

"You really thought it was Mew?" a voice laughed.