Emily and Jessica sat at a small table in “The Corner Café,” a popular spot known for its strong coffee and even stronger gossip. The aroma of freshly baked scones and frying bacon hung heavy in the air. Emily, with her bright blonde hair and easy smile, was, as usual, attracting attention. A group of teenage boys near the window kept glancing their way, nudging each other and whispering. Every glance was directed at Emily; none even registered Jessica's presence.
A wave of self-loathing washed over Jessica. She felt invisible, undesirable. “I want to leave,” she muttered to herself, her voice barely a whisper. “I hate myself. I need to lose weight. Why did I even come here? The smell of food is making me feel sick.”
Emily, who missed the exact words, but noticed Jessica's paling complexion, frowned. “Jess, are you alright? You look a bit green.”
Jessica forced a smile, a pathetic attempt to mask her inner turmoil. “I’m fine, just… not really hungry.”
According to the script they had, the next character to arrive was Mike. He was already running late. Emily racked her brain, trying to fill the awkward silence and boost Jessica's deflated spirits.
“Listen,” Emily began, leaning forward conspiratorially. “You know that skirt for the photosession… This one with the flowers. With your amazing legs, you would look absolutely stunning. And that red top – the one that really shows off your figure? Pair those together, and honestly, those lads over there would be falling over themselves to ask for your number. You’d have a queue of admirers!” Emily cringed inwardly. She knew it sounded cheesy, but she was desperate.
Before Jessica could respond, the bell above the door jingled, announcing Mike’s arrival.
“Sorry I’m late, girls!” Mike breezed in, his dark hair slightly tousled. He planted a quick kiss on Emily’s cheek, per the script. She almost recoiled instinctively, but reminded herself that it was all part of the plan.
“So, Em, aren’t you going to introduce me to your friend?” Mike asked, smoothly turning his attention to Jessica. Without waiting for Emily to say anything, he extended his hand. “Hi, I’m Mike. You look… incredible. You must have a huge portfolio of photoshoots; you’ve got that “model” vibe.”
Jessica was stunned into silence. She didn’t know what to say. Her cheeks flushed, but for the first time that afternoon, a glimmer of something other than self-disgust flickered in her eyes. She no longer felt the urge to bolt from the café.
“Right, girls,” Mike continued, clapping his hands together. “Let’s eat and then head over to the studio. I’m still a bit of a novice photographer, but I’ve got a couple of shoots lined up today.”
The waitress arrived with their order: a grilled chicken breast and a green salad for Jessica and Emily, and a large plate of chips for Mike. Jessica found herself unable to take her eyes off the food. The previously nauseating smell now seemed incredibly appealing. She cautiously picked up her fork, but as she attempted to stand, a wave of dizziness washed over her. She stumbled, and the next thing she knew, she was falling – directly into the arms of a young man walking past their table.
