Winning My Ex-Crush

Fenella’s POV

“Oh, hey, Greg. It’s nice to see you. We haven’t met in the office lately,” I welcomed with a light peck on each of our cheeks.

“I know. We’ve been busy with our own projects,” Greg smiled broadly.

Greg and I joined this mother agency only two weeks apart. Since then, he has always been my partner on small projects. Over time, as our success grew, we started to have our own busy schedules. The last time we worked together on the same project was a magazine editorial photoshoot half a year ago.

“Hey, guys.” Kiara approached us this time.

“I’m glad to hear you’re both so successful. It’s a shame everyone will retire in time,” she said with a smile.

Damn, she mentioned retirement! That topic was sensitive for Greg and me. We were considered too old and were starting to lose to the younger models newly recruited.

While Kiara was our junior, she was three years younger. Initially, she was recruited as a model. When they first recruited her, she snatched and stole many of my projects. Then, arrogantly, because she wanted to fulfill something she called passion, she switched to becoming an actress.

She challenged our agency’s rule that when someone chose to become an actress, their modeling activities would be reduced. She thought our boss, Ms. Lola, would comply with her because she felt like the golden child.

Unfortunately, Kiara didn’t understand that she was just a small, self-important actress with no acting talent. Kiara got small roles in sitcoms and Hollywood films with poor ratings, so her name never really took off.

When she decided to return to modeling, Ms. Lola and her agents no longer respected her. She even protested hysterically in the office because the brands she used to represent had left her.

But, c’est la vie; that’s life. You shouldn’t be greedy unless you are truly multitalented; then it’s okay.

“You must be busy with TV series too, right? What’s the title again? If I’m not mistaken, Smash or Flush, right?” I pretended to be clueless and didn’t remember the title of the drama she starred in.

“Maybe what you mean is Trash,” Greg joked, and we laughed.

Thank God! Greg and I still had the same chemistry to annoy others.

“Oh, whatever. You can mock me, but after that old lady leaves, I will persuade the new boss to give me all the projects,” Kiara said irritably.

“And the correct title of my drama is Crash! You guys are idiots.”NôvelDrama.Org exclusive content.

Kiara strutted away. Greg and I laughed and made a toast.

“She never learns. Greed only brings disaster.” Greg shook his head and sipped his wine.

“Don’t you want to try being an actor too? Who knows, maybe Kiara’s right if the new boss is more flexible,” I said, sipping my cocktail again.

“It would be more fun if I could join reality shows like dating shows or racing around the world. How about you? Don’t you want to try acting?” Greg asked.

“I don’t know. Do you think I have acting talent?” I asked.

“You’re more suited for a survival game show. It would be hilarious to hear your panicked screams,” Greg chuckled, and I lightly punched his arm.

One by one, more models arrived. There were a total of 28 models under Gene Model Management as their mother agency. Not everyone came today, but I made sure to greet everyone present. Being friendly and chatting about many things in hopes of attracting new projects. Except for Kiara, who was beyond help.

“Everyone, attention. Ms. Lola is coming in,” one of the agents announced, clinking their fork against their glass.

I immediately stopped chatting. The room fell silent, and we waited. Suddenly, the music speaker played a romantic classical guitar song. An old lady with full makeup walked in wearing a lavender dress. She wore a pearl necklace and earrings as accessories.

As she entered, everyone immediately applauded to welcome her. She bowed, thanked everyone repeatedly, and then walked to the main runway stage.

“Thank you, everyone, for being here. My children, how I miss you all.”

Ms. Lola is the founder and owner of Gene Model Management. She is quite respected in the fashion world, and the models she promotes always attract attention in the fashion and entertainment industries.

“I never imagined I could keep Gene Model Management running for over 30 years. At the age of 70, I still feel enthusiastic about promoting all of you to achieve your success. Imagine how happy I am when I see your photos on magazine covers, on buses, or your films on TV, even in cinemas.” She paused for a moment and looked at all of us.

“I want to be just like other famous old designers who launched their new clothing line at 87 years old. I always dreamed that I will still signing contracts for all of you in my last breath,” She shook her head.

“I want to continue seeing your achievements with me. But now I’m just a weak old Lola Jenkins.”

Ms. Lola stopped her sentence and shed tears.

“I’ve heard many complaints from people. I’m sure you’re not satisfied with my performance as the agency’s leader. I’m outdated.”

“I am sick, and I don’t know when my time will come.” She shook her head.

“That’s why I want to find a partner to share the success of this agency. To represent you as you deserve and to share success with all of you.”

“I don’t want just anyone taking over this office; it must be someone who will understand and pay attention to you. It must be someone who will truly care for you and help you overcome modern challenges.” She tightened her knuckles in the air.

“And I found him-the person I think is right to lead you. The person who will help you reach higher levels of success. The person who’s ready to lead you to a new era.”

Ms. Lola coughed briefly, then continued her sentence.

“Let me introduce you to Alan Schmidt.”