Page 40 of Mr. Mistletoe
The city feels too bright,too loud after Starlight Bay. Like stepping back into a life that fits… but now one size too small.
By the time I reach the studio and pack up my collection, nerves prick at me. This is my chance—but doubt gnaws at the edges. What if they don’t like anything? What if I’m not good enough?
I take extra time on hair and makeup. My favorite dress and boots can’t magically erase insecurity.
Then, a ping. Clark.
Mr. Mistletoe:You got this!
A smile lightsme from the inside. Of course he knew exactly what I needed.
On the way to the country club, I remind myself how far I’ve come. I never imagined dressing models for a runway show. Clark’s right: I’ve got this.
The storm is only a gentle drizzle now. The world looks washed clean, like a blank page.
The country club looms—imposing, elegant, intimidating. Manicured shrubs, tall evergreens, and blooming winter roses line the drive. I park the borrowed SUV between two luxury sports cars and take a deep breath.
I gather garment bags and make my way to the front door. A young woman answers before I can climb the last step.
“We’ve been waiting for you,” she says, heels clicking along marble.
Inside, glitter and gold everywhere. Crystal chandeliers drip from the ceiling, the rich scent of leather and linen in the air. A towering Christmas tree stretches to the cathedral ceiling, adorned with oversized silver ornaments.
She leads me to a salon flooded with sun through floor-to-ceiling windows, Tiffany lamps and fresh flowers catching the light.
And there, by the window, sun highlighting her chic black bob, is Tabitha.
“Jess,” she says, a touch impatient. “Finally.”
I nod, trying to appear calm despite my stomach doing cartwheels. “Thank you for having me.”
She gestures to an empty rack. “Hopefully you can fill this.”
“Yes.” Confidence surges as I hang the bags. “I can.”
The evening blurs past. When I return to my car, shivering not from the cold, I know I did it. I actually did it.
I can’t stop smiling as I pull out my phone. Instagram. The blinking cursor dares me to post.
I scroll to the Stingers game photo—Clark and me with the mascot. Cheeks flushed, his eyes crinkled with laughter. We look happy. Real.
I post before overthinking:
? Dreams really do come true.
Huge thanks to everyone who believed in me—especially him.
You taught me to take a chance, lead with heart, and believe that even in a storm, there’s magic waiting.
This one’s for you, Clark. ???? #dreambig #fashionjourney #thankyou
Comments flood in within minutes:
So proud of you, Jess!
This is amazing!
Who’s the guy???????
