ELISA FRANCO

After a year working in France, it's wonderful to be in Brazil again. I arrived in Rio de Janeiro a few days ago, where my mother, Claudia Franco, lives and works as a professor at UFRJ (Federal University of Rio de Janeiro) for two years now. We haven't seen each other since last year when Mom came to visit me in Paris, and it's my first time coming to Rio. I'm happy to spend time with her, I love hearing her advice and snuggling in her arms while I tell her about my travels.

My father, Eduardo Franco, died of lung cancer when I was 15 years old. My mother and I took care of each other, it was a difficult period. At 19 years old, I became a model and, due to having the perfect physique and the necessary charisma, I stood out on the catwalks. Since then, I have been constantly traveling, participating in fashion shows and events. I am also frequently called to represent various brands in the beauty industry.

Today, at 29 years old, I am about to launch my first lipstick brand through BELLA COSMETICS magazine, which has made me very anxious. My dream is to be a fashion designer and have my own clothing store. I want to retire from the catwalks and stay behind the scenes. My plan is to focus on launching various products and create my own brand, "ELISA FRANCO". I feel that this work will be the beginning of a new phase of my life.

I'm almost at LOPES photography studio. BELLA COSMETICS magazine recommended it to me and said it's one of the best in the city. The problem is that I'm lost and running late. I've never driven on these streets, and the GPS isn't helping me. I enter a street and soon I spot Ipanema Beach, my reference point. Now I just have to find the right building.

Sophie Lopes: Twenty minutes late. Everything was ready in the studio, and no sign of the model. I hated how snobbish these people were. They acted as if they were the center of the universe, judging to have everyone at their feet. Maybe you're thinking I'm a control freak, which in part may even be true. I worked hard to get where I am, built my career as a photographer with a lot of dedication and discipline. I don't like delays.

"Sophie, calm down. I'm sure Miss Franco will arrive soon. Just relax."   Flavia, my assistant and friend, who knows me very well, noticed my bad mood.

"If the 'Queen of the World' doesn't arrive in 10 minutes, we'll postpone it." I say irritably.

Flavia stepped away, knowing that I wasn't in a good moment, picked up her phone, and started making calls.

Whom was I trying to fool? I wasn't cranky because of the model's delay. The truth is, yesterday I caught my boyfriend, or rather, my ex-boyfriend, cheating on me. I still feel disgusted when I remember the scene I witnessed.

Yesterday was a long and tiring day. Marcos wasn't in town, and I was going to surprise him with a special breakfast since we had been dating for two years. I decided I would go to his apartment and stay there overnight so I wouldn't have to wake up too early.

I opened Marcos' apartment door because I had a spare key. I left the groceries on the kitchen table and headed towards the bathroom to take a shower. The apartment was huge, I went up the stairs and walked down the hallway. I was surprised to see Marcos' suitcases by his bedroom door. Did he come back already? As I approached, I heard moans that only grew louder. I pushed the door slowly and became speechless when I saw Marcos having sex with a woman. She screamed, and he smacked her butt.

"Don't stop, Marcos, go harder." She was loud.

My hands clenched into fists, and I gritted my teeth. That scene disgusted and infuriated me. The girl looked at me and got scared, pushing Marcos away and covering her body. He looked at the door, his face turned pale. I wanted to punch him, which wouldn't be too difficult since I practiced boxing, but I could only run away. Before reaching the door, I felt Marcos' hand grab my arm.

"Sophie, it's not what you're thinking. "His cynical face annoyed me even more.

"Don't touch me, you idiot." I was never good with insults. How I wished I had something worse to say!

"Let me explain... She means nothing to me." I look into his eyes, feeling disgusted. For the first time, I didn't see him as the perfect man I believed he was.

"I don't want to hear your explanations. How could you do this to me? I thought you loved me." I was hurt and betrayed. I felt hatred consuming me.

"Baby, did you really think a man could live without some adventures? They are just one-night stands. With you, things are different. I chose you to be my woman." I couldn't believe what I had just heard. So he always cheated on me and was justifying it with this sexist bullshit speech?

"Marcos, listen carefully to what I'm about to tell you, because I won't repeat it. I never want to see you again. It's all over. Don't you dare look for me. Everything we had, from what I see, has long ceased to exist. I don't want to look at your stupid face, stay away from me." I turn around and leave. I don't look back. I hated him with all my strength.

I snap out of my thoughts when the studio door opens. A tall, slim, blonde woman walks in. She must be the model. I approach her to greet her and show her to her dressing room. I was still upset with Marcos, but I was too professional to let my personal life interfere with my work. I put on a smile and go up to her.

ELISA FRANCO

I finally manage to arrive. As soon as I enter the studio, a very beautiful woman comes to greet me.

"Hello! My name is Sophie. I'm the photographer who will take your photos."

Sophie is about 15 centimeters shorter than me, which is still considered tall in the Brazilian average. I believe she is about 1.70 meters tall. Her body is delicate and full of curves, her eyes, honey-colored, and her hair black, but I can't observe the length as they are tied up in a bun. Her lips are full and pink, I can't help but stare.

"Hello Sophie." I take too long savoring her name in my mouth. "It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Elisa Franco." I approach and kiss her cheek. I know I take too long for a simple greeting, but Sophie is very attractive and her hair smells so good. It makes me imagine her showering and the water running down her body while...

"You're late, Miss Elisa." Her raspy voice of reprimand only makes me more interested. Even though she visibly seemed uncomfortable with my gazes, I loved hearing my name on her lips. I definitely had to have that woman in my bed and make her climax until her eyes were clouded with pleasure. Unlike now, where despite her smile, I could sense sadness in her eyes, which strangely made me want to comfort her.

"Don't get distracted next time." She simply ended my flirtation. How mean! Just as I was having fun. "Flavia will take you to the makeup artist."

The brunette returns to her tough pose. Then, she goes to the other side of the room to guide her assistants. I could leave because of her arrogance. Nobody has ever treated me like this, but I felt that beneath that tough exterior, there was an incredible woman.

"Don't worry about her. She's not always like this." The girl next to me speaks. "My name is Flavia, and I love your outfit." She smiles. Her comment makes me like her immediately.

"I don't think Sophie is mean." I say with a smile. "She just needs a good night of sex." Flavia chokes beside me and I laugh.

"I always say that, but don't tell Sophie what I said, because I will deny it until death." I sit in front of the mirror, laughing at Flavia's desperation.

"Don't worry, this secret is between us." Flavia smiles conspiratorially.

The makeup artist quickly comes to do my makeup. Then I change clothes and Flavia helps me. I take the opportunity to gather more information about Sophie. I find out that she is the owner of the studio, which I already expected, as an employee wouldn't be so cold with me. Flavia tells me that Sophie hates delays. I can relate to that. The brunette also participates in various sports, which surely contributes to her perfectly toned body. After a few minutes, I am ready. I go to my place in front of the white screen and Sophie comes towards me with her camera in hand.

"Very well! Let's begin. Elisa, I want to see your natural smile," she says. My smile comes easily. Maybe the brunette in front of me has something to do with it. "Put your hair to the side and look serious," Sophie is so bossy. I do what she tells me and wonder if she is also authoritative in bed. That thought makes me bite my lower lip. "That's it, keep that expression," it was easy, I look at Sophie's full lips and my seductive look comes naturally. "Okay, looks great. Just like that. Now give me a fierce pose," the brunette approaches and we are less than half a meter apart.

She lifts her hand and adjusts my hair, which immediately warms me up. I feel an incredible connection with that woman. It scares me at first, but then it becomes the best thing I have ever felt. Those honey-colored eyes stare at me. It is in that moment that I realize she also feels that tension between us.

"We'll take a break!" Sophie says, startling me. As if I have come out of a trance, my hands are sweaty and my heart is racing. I am definitely aroused.

SOPHIE LOPES

I walk to my desk and start fiddling with the camera without really focusing on what I am doing. My hands are trembling. When Elisa Franco entered my studio, I was too upset to notice anything around me. Just one look at her green eyes through the lens made me realize that she was not just very beautiful, but also incredibly seductive. I don't know what was happening to me, her closeness made me nervous.

"Are you okay?" Flavia asks, bringing me back to reality.

"I'm okay, Flavia, I'm sorry if I was rude earlier. Today hasn't been a good day!" My friend looks at me worriedly, and I knew I would have to tell her about Marcos.

"Is this about Marcos? Because I know he came back from his trip and you are here instead of being with him like you always do." Am I that transparent?

"I'm not always with him, Flavia." I was just trying to be a good girlfriend. I remember what he did to me and how stupid I feel now.

"Yes, you're always with him, but that's not what I asked." At that moment, Elisa returns to the room with a different outfit and makeup. I try not to stare at her, but my eyes don't obey me. "We'll talk later, okay? Let's get to work." I go towards the blonde and silently thank her for giving me an excuse to not talk about what happened with Marcos.

It was super easy to get incredible photos of Elisa. She has a relationship with the camera. Her smile is effortless, and even when we're not taking photos, I observed her behavior with the people in the studio. Everyone was infatuated with her, they would surely do anything the model asked. Except me, of course. Although it's irresistible to follow her commands and think about her whispering in my ear as her hand moves down... Sophie, control yourself. What are these thoughts?

"The shoot was perfect, Sophie. You are undoubtedly the best photographer I've ever worked with," Elisa says excitedly.

"Thank you, Elisa, you were great," the blonde looks at me surprised. I don't blame her. I haven't been the nicest person in the past few hours.

"Thank you, your studio is beautiful. Have you lived in Rio for a long time?" she asks.

"I've lived here forever," I reply curtly.

"My mom has been living here for two years. This is the first time I come here. I didn't have much time to explore the tourist spots or places where I can have fun. "I know I should offer to show her around now, but she makes me nervous, and all I want is for her to leave soon. So I can regain control over my thoughts.

"You should ask someone from the studio to accompany you. I'm sure they would love to be your tour guide. "I suggest.

"And what about you?" Is she flirting with me? I feel a bit uncomfortable, but I have to admit that I like it.

"Me, what?" I ask, all wrong.

"Don't you want to be my tour guide?" The blonde is direct.

"I'm sorry, but I'm swamped with work.

"It doesn't have to be today. I'll be staying here for a while. "She says suggestively.

"You know what, I... "Flavia calls Elisa. Thank God! I'm saved! The blonde leaves me alone, and I can breathe easily. I start going through some papers on the table and try to focus on something other than the model's presence in the room.

ELISA FRANCO

Sophie is a difficult woman to access. I used my flirting skills, but she didn't seem to care, which made me even more curious.

At the end of the shoot, everyone wanted my contact information, invited me out, and offered to show me around the city. The only person I wanted all that attention from was now at her desk, working on her computer. Her resistance made me more interested. I wouldn't give up so easily. I approached Sophie before leaving. I wouldn't let her cold demeanor shake me.

"Sophie?" She looks at me. "The crew invited me to go to the beach this afternoon. Are you coming?" Her seriousness scared me, but I wouldn't give up. Something told me that this woman was worth it.

"I'm not going, I have a lot to do. I hope you enjoy the outing. When the photos are ready, I'll send them to the Magazine.

"Alright. I'm already heading out. It was a pleasure meeting you. "I give her a kiss on the cheek. She seemed slightly surprised. I thought I heard her say something, but I couldn't understand. I believe I made her nervous. I walk towards the door and notice her gaze on my body. I smile triumphantly. Even though Sophie doesn't admit it, her gaze gave her away.

"Now that everyone's gone, tell me, Sophie, what's bothering you?" Flavia didn't hold back when she wanted to know something.

"I caught Marcos in bed with another woman last night." I speak coldly. How I hated him.

"Friend, I can't believe that bastard did that! He doesn't deserve you. You've always been the perfect girlfriend." I know Flavia only wants to help me, but I don't want to talk about what happened. My mood was already terrible enough.

"Can we not talk about this now? I don't even want to remember what happened." I turn my attention to the papers on my desk.

"Okay, friend. When you're ready, I'll be here to listen." Fla has always been understanding and caring.

"Hey, bitches. What are you up to?" Meet my best friend, Henrique. Besides everything, he's my neighbor and also a great interior designer. All the furniture in my house was designed by him. As you've probably noticed, Rick is loud, which irritates me sometimes.

"Hi, Rick!" Fla and I speak at the same time.

"What are we going to do today, ladies? I'm dying to go out. Work is killing me. I need to get some color on this pale skin of mine."

"The people from the studio are going to the beach today. What if we go too?" Fla suggests.

"Forget it. I'm not in the mood to go out today." I speak and Rick looks at me curiously. He approaches and leans on the table.

"Since when do you turn down an afternoon at the beach, Soph?" It was impossible to hide anything from these two. I had to give them something so they'd leave me alone.

"Marcos and I broke up. Are you satisfied now? Can I get back to work?" Rick's look of contentment didn't surprise me, he never liked Marcos.

"Hey, babe, you'll be fine. There are plenty of nice guys out there, I know from experience. You're coming to the beach with us, even if I have to drag you there, and Fla agrees with me." The two made gestures as if they were going to pick me up.

"Fine, okay, I'll go." I said, avoiding them. "But no throwing guys at me. I'm fine on my own and that's how I want to be."

I go to my room to change clothes, before Henrique starts interrogating me about wanting to stay single.

FLAVIA AND HENRIQUE'S POV

"Can you tell me what that scumbag Marcos did this time, Flavia?"

"Sophie caught him cheating on her, but that's all I know."

"What? I'm going to kill that bastard. Who does that to Soph? She's the most devoted girlfriend I know."

"I want to kill Marcos too. So, get in line, honey. Soph needs our support right now. Let's act like the good friends we are and let's make her have fun."

"Of course, friend, this outing will be good for her."

"And a certain person will be there too."

"What, what do you mean? Did I miss something?"

"Calm down, gay boy! It's not certain, but even a blind person would feel the sparks flying between them."

"You mean it's a woman? Oh my god."

"It's not just any woman... It's ELIZA FRANCO, internationally renowned model."

"You don't have to remind me who ELIZA FRANCO is. She's like my fashion goddess. Wow, Soph hit the jackpot!"

"What did I hit the jackpot for?" Sophie returns to the room, startling the two.

"You hit the jackpot by accepting to go to the beach with us." Flavia disguises her words and then looks at her friend. "Friend, what bikini is that? It leaves nothing to the imagination."

"It's just one of my many bikinis. Stop it, Fla. And you two, stop gossiping, let's go before I change my mind." Sophie heads towards the door.

"YOU-KNOW-WHO is going to have a heart attack when Sophie shows up at the beach." Rick speaks quietly so only Flavia hears, and they both start laughing. Sophie can't hear and becomes curious about the reason for their laughter, but she says nothing. She's already nervous enough and doesn't know why.

ELIZA FRANCO

After the rehearsal, I go to my mother's house. Dona Claudia will only arrive for dinner, so I take anything from the fridge and heat it up for lunch. I go to my room and try to find a bikini, which doesn't go very well. I hardly ever go to the beach, so my wardrobe is lacking in bikinis. I'll have to go shopping before going to the beach. I hurried because it was almost time I had set with Flavia.

When I arrived at Ipanema beach, Flavia came to talk to me. She was with two guys that I recognized from earlier today.

"I'm glad you came, Elisa." I hug her and then greet the guys.

"Where's the rest of the gang?" I ask. Actually, I wanted to know if Sophie had come.

"They're over there. Let me show you."

We walked for a while until I saw a volleyball net and some people playing footvolley. Among them was a beautiful brunette wearing a tiny bikini, which made me drool over her sexy body. She noticed my presence and gave a discreet smile. If I hadn't been paying attention, I wouldn't have seen it. I sat down with other people and Flavia.

"Elisa, this is Henrique. He's a big fan of yours." The man greeted me with two kisses, which I found funny, he seemed quite nervous. He was quite tall, maybe about ten centimeters taller than me. His black hair contrasted with his fair and pale skin, which stood out even more among so many tanned skins.

"Hi, Henrique, nice to meet you. I'm very happy that you appreciate my work." I speak sincerely.

"I love your work, Elisa. You inspire me to be creative in mine." He speaks excitedly.

"Really? And what do you do?" I ask curious, although I can only concentrate on the brunette in front of us. Those toned legs and that perfectly sculpted abs.

"I design furniture and also do interior decoration..." I swear I try to pay attention to what Henrique is saying, but the scene in front of me ends up irritating me. Sophie's partner, a short and fit man, who can't take his eyes off her ass.

"I would love to see your work sometime." I say, still distracted.

"Are you serious?" He claps his hands happily, which makes me smile. "I'll show you my portfolio another time.

"That would be perfect... But let's stop talking about work and have some fun. Does anyone here want to be my partner in the game?" I stand up and start warming up.

"I have to apologize, Elisa, but I'm terrible at this game." Flavia makes a face that makes me laugh. She makes it clear that she doesn't like footvolley.

"That's okay. And you, Henrique, can you play?"

"Yes, I was just waiting for a partner, but it seems I've found one." He stands next to me and starts warming up too.

"Great, let's rock it."

"Just one more thing." Henrique says.

"What?"

"You can call me Rick, everyone calls me that. When I hear Henrique, I just remember my boss scolding me." This time I don't hide my laughter. Rick was a clown.

"Really? Alright, Rick."

"Alright. Now let's crush Soph's team because she's been winning too much and thinks she's all that." Rick says loudly for the brunette to hear.

Sophie provokes him with a challenging look and I take the opportunity to take off my dress and stay only in my bikini. I chose it carefully. Even though I didn't know if Sophie would come, I chose it thinking of her. My bikini was a thong, strapless, in blue color and the top formed an X in the front while the bottom was fastened by bows on the sides of my hips. My satisfaction increased when I noticed the brunette looking at me and her gaze was anything but discreet.

SOPHIE LOPES

I was still trying to regain my sanity when Elisa enters the sand court. Now, she ties her blonde hair in a ponytail and laughs at Henrique's jokes. I knew she would be here, but I didn't know that my body would be playing tricks on me. Everything was getting hotter now, including the V between my legs. I fanned myself trying to alleviate the heat, what was happening to me?

Elisa positioned herself in a way that I could see the top part of her breasts. I swallowed hard and she smiled, knowing very well how much it affected me. What was happening to me? Her emerald eyes were challenging, and that awakened my competitive side.

I positioned myself in a corner of the court, placed the ball on a mound of sand, and kicked. Rick received it with difficulty, but Elisa took control of the ball and returned it to his head, and he didn't need much to score a point. The two of them were ecstatic, hugging and celebrating. That scene irritated me, I mean, I knew Rick was bisexual. Despite his preference for men, he could very well be interested in Elisa. And what does that have to do with me? I have to focus." Come on, Sophie, stop thinking about these things."

Elisa was next to serve. Her kick was precise, which surprised me. I controlled the ball and passed it to Pedro, who was my partner. He placed it high and close to the net. I headed it and Rick couldn't gain control. I smiled, victorious, taunting Elisa, and she looked at me as if saying "the game is just beginning."

It was Pedro's turn to start. He kicked towards Elisa, who passed the ball backwards to Henrique, and he returned it to her a few inches from the net. She propelled herself and literally pushed the ball with the sole of her foot, then fell to the ground and quickly got up. It was impressive! The ball hit Pedro's chest and he couldn't control it. Elisa looked at me, raising her eyebrow and biting her lip. What a damn tease. She was really good. Poor Pedro. If they hadn't just met today, I would think she was mad at him.

We won the first set, but Elisa and Rick won the second. The game was intense, and all our friends were ecstatic on the sidelines. The score was 19 to 20 in our favor. If we scored, we would win, and I was desperate for that to happen.

Henrique had the serve. He positioned himself and kicked. I controlled it on my chest and passed it to Pedro, who returned it to me. I headed it near the net. That point was already ours. The ball was close to the ground when Elisa threw herself and recovered it with the tip of her foot. It was enough for Henrique to place the ball in the back of our court. It was a quick play, and now it was a tie. The game would go to two sets.

Elisa served, and Pedro controlled it, lifting it to me. I played for the opposing team, and they returned the ball. I caught it with my back facing the net, and Pedro set it up perfectly for me to perform a bicycle kick. The ball landed in the opposing team's court, and the crowd started cheering my name. Elisa was sweaty and visibly tired. For someone who didn't practice, she was in really good shape. I couldn't help but stare at the sweat dripping down her toned abdomen, disappearing into her shorts. The sun was setting, and her eyes had a very bright color. Her butt was covered in dirt, and my hand itched to touch it.

Pedro served, and Henrique returned it in a panic. I took advantage of his instability and headed it towards him again. Rick fell with the impact of the ball, and Elisa threw herself to try to recover it, but it was too late. We won!

Pedro came towards me and lifted me up. I tried to push him away, but he was too excited. When I finally managed to free myself from his arms, I looked at Elisa, who was staring at me with a serious expression. Her eyes were dark. It sent shivers down my body.

The sun had already disappeared, giving way to the moon and the stars. I approached where she was and extended my hand to greet her.

"Congratulations! Where did you learn to play?" She held my hand, and I felt her soft skin against mine.

"I used to play indoor soccer in school, and I guess you don't forget those things. By the way, you were amazing!" I thanked God for being sunburned, so she wouldn't notice my red cheeks from embarrassment because of her compliment.

"Thank you. I wasn't going to come, but I changed my mind." I didn't know why, but I felt the need to justify myself to her.

"How nice of you to come." Elisa continues staring at me, and an awkward silence hangs between us. I find myself looking at her mouth and quickly turn my head, embarrassed. Thank God, Flavia calls me at that moment. I sit with some people and try to focus on other things.

ELIZA FRANCO

The atmosphere at the beach was great. I watched some of our colleagues enter the sea, pick up some women who were cold, and carry them into the water. Flavia and Rick updated me on everyone's names, but I still couldn't remember them all.

Sophie was sitting in a beach chair, a lost look in her eyes. I had seen that sad expression since this morning and deeply wished to see her smile again. I stood up and sat on the ground next to her.

"The night is beautiful tonight." I looked at the sky, filled with stars. She also looked at the sky and smiled.

"How were your nights in Paris?" She asked without turning her face to me.

"Very different from here. There, I didn't have time to contemplate the sky; there were so many things to do that simple moments like this were rare." Sophie looked at me, curious, but didn't say anything. I continued, "I'm loving Rio de Janeiro. It's been a long time since I had so much fun.

"Your life didn't seem so good." She said, immediately seeming to regret it. "I'm sorry, that's not what I meant." Sophie became serious and looked back at the sky, avoiding eye contact with me.

"No, you're right. My life wasn't good." I remembered everything my mother and I went through after my father's death, and I felt a little sad. It had been a long time, but it still affected me deeply.

"Seriously, I didn't mean to offend you. That wasn't my intention." Sophie touched my arm, and I placed my hand on hers.

"I'm fine now, much better." Like magic, the atmosphere between us changed. It became tense, but it was a good tension, the kind that gives you butterflies. I stroked Sophie's hand and noticed her biting her lip.

"You're very beautiful." I blurted out without thinking. Sophie looked at me, startled, and at that moment I knew I had been too direct. Pedro and Henrique ran towards us, and she quickly pulled her hand away.

"Hey, girls, want to go swimming?" Pedro said.

"We're fine." I replied, realizing that Sophie remained silent.

They exchanged looks as if they were about to do something. Rick grabbed me and threw me over his shoulder; I screamed, and he laughed. I saw Sophie being carried by Pedro, and they both threw us into the water at the same time. I looked at Sophie, who seemed about to freak out, but suddenly she pounced on Pedro and started to drown him. I joined her team and threw water in Henrique's face, which was clearly a mistake. He grabbed me by the waist and knocked me down. In the end, we ended up laughing a lot.

The rest of the outing was full of laughter and playfulness, except for Sophie, who became quiet again. We didn't have any more opportunities to talk alone, but I got very close to Henrique, who told me more about his work. I also found out that he was Sophie's neighbor and they had known each other for five years, since she moved into the apartment next to his.

My cell phone started ringing in my bag. Excusing myself from everyone, I moved away from the group. It was my mother, and I was eager to talk to her.

"Hi, Mom."

"Hi, my baby. I'm on my way home. Want to do something tonight?" My mother has always been very enthusiastic.

"I'm at the beach with some friends, but I want to have dinner with you. How about watching a movie?"

"Perfect, daughter. See you at home. Love you." I always felt like the happiest person in the world when I was with my mother.

"Mom?"

"What's up, honey?"

"It's so good to be home. I love you so much."

"It's so good to have you home, Lizzy. See you in a bit."

I hung up the phone and said goodbye to everyone. Near my car, I heard Sophie call me, and my heart raced.

"Elisa! You forgot your glasses." She approached me and handed me my Ray-Ban glasses.

"Thank you, Sophie. I'm so forgetful." She smiled, and that silence returned between us.

If I didn't ask, I would never know the answer, so I decided to take the risk of rejection.

"Do you want to go out with me on a date tomorrow?" The question came out in a whisper.

"Elisa, I... It's complicated. I just got out of a relationship and I don't want to get involved in another one so soon." Her confession surprised me. Was she justifying herself?

"Of course. I understand," I managed to say, although I was sad with her answer.

"You are beautiful, and anyone would be lucky to know you, but I am in a confused stage of my life." Her voice became choked, as if she was about to cry. I didn't want to make her cry, so I changed the subject.

"This beauty here almost defeated you in the game today." I joked, and she immediately smiled. I was enchanted! That was definitely the most sincere smile she had given me since we met.

"Next time, you will be my partner." Now I was sure I had a silly smile on my face.

"I'll love it. Until next time," I kissed her cheek." Goodnight, Sophie."

She continued smiling, and in that moment, I could see the true Sophie, a light-hearted and relaxed person. I got into the car, and the brunette waved. I waved back and continued looking at her image, slowly disappearing in the rearview mirror. I thought about what she had said about coming out of a relationship, and I understood her actions since the photo shoot better. She was clearly hurt and angry. I felt the urge to tell off the person who had hurt her. How could anyone make Sophie so sad and still sleep with a clear conscience? That looked like a heartless man. Just imagining Sophie with someone like that made my anger grow. I shook my head to try to push away these thoughts and started the car, heading towards my mother's house.

"Sophie, what time will you arrive?" My mother spoke from the other end of the phone line.

"I don't know, Mom. I'm at the airport, and my flight is delayed." I looked at the help desk, where several people were gathered seeking more information about the plane's departure. "I promise to let you know as soon as I'm on the plane, Mom."

My mother lived in São Paulo with my stepfather Luiz and my sister Lara. They were eager for my arrival. It had been a while since I last visited them, and I took advantage of the fashion event I was called to work at to spend a week with my family.

"Alright, daughter, we miss you. Kisses, we love you." My father spoke. Surely the cellphone was on speakerphone.

"Goodbye, family. Love you."

I hung up and continued reading the book in my hands. After 2 hours of waiting, I finally boarded. "Finally!" I sent a message to my mother and turned off the phone.

After the beach trip last Sunday, the week passed in the blink of an eye. I worked every day without a break. I sent the photos of Elisa to Bella Cosmetics magazine on Monday, and everyone loved the final result. Sometimes, I found myself thinking about the beautiful blonde with emerald eyes. I kept reliving our last conversation and felt bad for declining her invitation. Why didn't I accept? Going out with someone is very different from falling in love with someone, and that was out of the question. Would she be at the São Paulo fashion show? I felt the desire to see her again.

I looked out the airplane window, and the city of Rio was getting smaller and smaller. I grabbed my notebook and started working. At some point, I opened a folder with several photos of me and Marcos. How did I let him deceive me so much? And worse, I can't believe I actually believed he was the right person.

FLASHBACK ON

I was in my apartment the night before. Flavia and Rick had been here earlier to invite me out, but I declined. I wanted to stay home, and despite their insistence, they accepted my refusal. It hadn't even been 5 minutes, and the doorbell rang. I thought it was Rick trying to convince me again.

"I already told you I don't want to..." I quickly stopped when the person I least wanted to see was in front of me.

"Hey, baby, I decided to come here to pick you up." He must be kidding.

"I'm not going anywhere with you, Marcos." I spoke irritably.

"Are you still mad at me, my love? I already explained to you that it was just an affair. Get ready, come on. Tonight is the dinner at my parents' house." His victim pose only made me more furious.

"I don't know if you understood, we have nothing else to say to each other." I spoke rudely and directly.

"Are you breaking up with me? Is that it?" His voice became agitated, and he approached me. I didn't feel intimidated and looked at him seriously.

"When I told you not to contact me again, that's exactly what I meant. I don't accept betrayal, and if you only want a trophy girlfriend, then go look somewhere else. And yes, I'm breaking up with you, if that's not clear enough. Goodbye, Marcos!" I tried to close the door, but he stopped me.

"Sophie, you're being so dramatic. I understand where you're trying to go. I promise I won't cheat on you anymore. Give me a chance, come on, babe." His tone became seductive, which worked many times, but not now.

"You should have thought about that before. Now, please, let me close the door." Marcos smiled and looked at me maliciously.

"That's why I looked for another woman. You're too cold. No guy can stand living with a woman who doesn't like sex. I needed to satisfy myself, and you didn't understand my needs." He spoke as if I were to blame for everything that was happening. I wouldn't cry in front of that bastard. I took a deep breath and spoke.

The fault isn't mine if in these two years you haven't been able to give me a single orgasm. So if I'm so cold, why are you still here? Do us both a favor and get out of my life. "I slammed the door in his face and let the tears fall. I hated him for everything he said and hated myself for not realizing his true nature sooner.

FLASHBACK OFF

I must have dozed off at some point, as the pilot was already announcing that the plane would be landing in São Paulo in a few minutes. I deleted the photo folder and closed my laptop. It was time to forget what happened with Marcos and focus on work.

ELISA FRANCO

São Paulo was one of the cities I visited the most. Many events were held here, like the one this week. The fashion show wasn't until tomorrow, but the fitting was already happening. The final adjustments were being made to my clothes. I couldn't wait to go to the hotel and rest.

After the launch of my lipstick brand, I did a series of commercials to promote the product and the immediate success of sales was surprising. In response to the sales boom, the Eliza Franco brand was going to launch the next product, which would be a perfume. I kept myself busy for the rest of the week, and then came straight to São Paulo. I was exhausted.

I always had a reputation as a party girl, and it was true. I loved going to parties and dancing, especially dancing. But in the past two years, I didn't mind staying home. I wanted something more for my life. I was tired of not having someone to share everything I had achieved. Coming home after a full day of work without someone waiting for me didn't make sense anymore. But I didn't want just anyone, I wanted someone I loved and who loved me too. Someone I cared about more than anything else in my life. I don't know why, but Sophie's face came to mind. I know she wanted to keep me away, she made it very clear that she didn't want a relationship. Maybe I could make her change her mind. I've never been one to give up on what I want, and this wouldn't be the first time.

When I arrived at the hotel, I took a quick shower and threw myself onto the bed. Tomorrow would be a busy day, and I needed to recharge my energy.

I was late for the meeting that would happen before the fashion show. I almost ran through the entrance door and headed towards our designer's office.

"Sorry, Thomas, I got caught in horrible traffic." He came towards me and kissed my cheek.

"It's okay, my favorite model. You know that without you, my show wouldn't be the same. Let's hurry, your outfit is right over there."

I went to the closet and changed clothes. Everyone was waiting for their turn to walk the runway, and Thomas was talking about how proud he was of us. He gave a flamboyant speech, and we all laughed. The designer was light-hearted and laid-back, he knew how to uplift us.

"Come here, my big star." He pulled me by the hand. "You'll be our first model to go out. Go out there and shine!" I smiled and positioned myself behind the curtains.

An upbeat song started playing. I took a deep breath and confidently walked onto the runway. Many people applauded, and the camera flashes almost blinded me, but I had long known how to handle all the media attention. The photographers hired for the event were further ahead, and as I approached, I posed for them. I thought I saw Sophie behind one of the cameras, but everything happened so quickly. I went back to the closet and put on another look. This time, I would find out if it was really her.

SOPHIE LOPES

Elisa Franco was definitely more beautiful than last week, which was almost impossible to happen. The models walked one by one on the runway, but none caused those sensations in my body except for the blonde who was entering again. This time, she not only struck a pose but smiled in my direction, leaving me breathless. When she disappeared again, I released a breath that I hadn't even realized I was holding. I looked at the photo of Elisa smiling, and my heart raced. How could she do that to me?

The fashion show ended, and the desire to speak to Elisa didn't leave my mind. But in this universe, she was so inaccessible, and to think that she was the same person who challenged me in footvolley and whom I saw all wet from the sea.

SOPHIE LOPES

I took pictures of people in front of the event panel. She would pass by there at some point. I knew this because many people were talking about Elisa around me.

"Did you see how beautiful she is?" Two young people commented.

"My friends are going to go crazy when they find out I have a lipstick from Elisa Franco." A group of girls was ecstatic next to me.

So this was her world? Full of fans and flatterers. I myself wanted to see her very much. Still, I didn't know why, but she had seen me, so it wouldn't be polite to leave without greeting her.

Elisa came to the panel and started answering some questions from the reporters who were there. They seemed like vultures circling around her.

Reporters: Elisa, how long will you stay in Brazil?

Elisa: I'm not sure yet, but you all will be the first to know.

"How do you feel about the success of your lipstick line?" One of the reporters asked.

"I'm very happy, and I hope you all like it as much as I do," Elisa replied enthusiastically.

"Are you single?" That question caught my attention.

"Yes, but that doesn't mean I don't have suitors," Elisa joked, making everyone laugh.

Despite the harassment, she remained friendly and fun.

"Elisa, Elisa!" one of them responded playfully.

"If you all excuse me, I have to go. It was a pleasure talking to everyone. Good night!" Very politely, she withdrew to a VIP area, where I, fortunately, could enter thanks to my employee badge.

Inside, various fashion names were present. I started taking many photos. I couldn't find Elisa; she disappeared too quickly. After countless pictures, I leaned against the bar counter and ordered sparkling water. I looked around trying to find her; there were many people in that place. I spotted the model with her stylist, Thomas Fiori. The two were talking animatedly, so I approached and asked.

"Can I take a picture of you both?" Elisa looked at me and smiled, and Thomas nodded.

I took some pictures and, without realizing it, I looked at the guy's hand, which was very close to Elisa's body. That made my face heat up.

"Of course, Sophie, I'd love to," her response surprised me, and her gaze at the camera almost gave me heart palpitations.

"You were perfect today," I said softly, just for her to hear. I took a few more pictures, and she approached.

"Thank you. I hope you're having fun," her voice was sensual, and my hairs stood on end.

"You're the star of the event, it's you who should be having fun," I said, shifting the focus away from me.

"Actually, it's not fun at all. I know many other things that could be much more enjoyable," the blonde was flirting with me?

"Is that so? And what do you have in mind?" I couldn't believe I was flirting back, but I was curious.

"Let me take you on a date, and you'll find out," she was persistent, I had to admit, but despite being affected by her proximity, this game wouldn't work on me.

"Nice try, Elisa, but that's not going to happen," her gaze became sad, but then she smiled and spoke.

"It doesn't hurt to try. How are Flavia and Henrique? I didn't even have time to say goodbye to them," I was surprised by the change of subject, but this conversational zone was much safer for me.

"They're fine. They spent the rest of the week talking about you. We saw your commercial. Congratulations on the success."

"Thank you, your photos helped me a lot with the advertising. Everyone loved your work, especially me." Your compliment meant a lot to me. Before I could thank her, someone called her. She said goodbye, "It was great seeing you, Soph. Tell the studio crew I said hi." She approached, kissed my cheek, and whispered in my ear, "Have a great night." Then she went to the person who called her, and I stood there without any reaction.

When I arrived at my parents' house, it was already very late. They must already be asleep. I had stopped by earlier, so I had a spare key. I silently went to my room and closed the door.

"How was the event?" I jumped in fright. My sister was on my bed.

"Geez, Lara, you almost scared me to death! What are you doing here at this hour?" She smiled, rolling her eyes, and then lay down.

"I guess sometimes you forget that I'm already 22 years old, Sophie. I snuck out of our parents' house and used your window to get inside." She smiled as if she hadn't done anything wrong.

"You should have come in through the front door, since you're old enough to inform our parents and not sneak out." I teased. "And why didn't you use the window in your room?"

"Oh, Soph, stop being annoying. I was curious to know how it went at the fashion show."

Lara was my younger sister. We had always been close, even after our parents moved here.

"It was great." I involuntarily smiled as I thought of Elisa, how beautiful she looked. Her seductive voice in my ear. How could I resist that blonde?

"Wow, it must have been more than great for you to have that dumb look on your face." She looked at me questioningly.

"What? I don't have a dumb look on my face." I touched my face and it was warm.

"I'm not stupid. I know you've already broken up with Marcos. You haven't said anything about him since you got here, and that's not normal. Who's the guy making you have that look?" Lara was impossible.

"You're right, I'm no longer with Marcos, and if you don't mind, I don't want to talk about it. You're mistaken, there's no man. I'll tell you about the fashion show tomorrow, it's late, let's sleep." I made it clear that the subject was closed.

"You're a terrible liar." My sister was so curious.

"Seriously, there's no man. I don't even want to get involved with anyone right now." I spoke the truth.

"I'll pretend I believe you. Can I sleep here with you?" She asked with those puppy eyes that she knew how to use so well.

"Alright, but you have to take a shower first." Lara kissed me and went towards my bathroom.

I stared at the ceiling again and remembered Elisa's words, "Let me take you on a date and you'll find out." She looked beautiful, and it was no surprise to find her there. Her photos were on all the event flyers. I already knew she was going to walk the runway, but I wasn't prepared for the hurricane the blonde caused in my body.

That night, I dreamed that Elisa took me on a very indecent date. She kissed my neck, and I moaned her name. Her hands were all over my body, and I couldn't stop desiring her.

I woke up sweaty and with a racing heartbeat. What was happening to me? This woman was entering my mind and I couldn't stop her.