Chapter 21: Hiding in Plain Sight

I have decided to become like Cinderella again tonight.

However, I do need some help. I did not bring enough makeup products with me but it was a good thing that the girls in the production team did. I borrowed all the products that I needed, taking a mental note of the people that I originally got this from. I immediately rushed to the nearest restroom while hugging my makeup bag close to my chest.

The moment I stepped inside of the restroom, my eyes met my tired reflection. I gazed at my appearance in disappointment. I was disgusted by the power Kevin had over me. My mascara has smudged a little bit and my foundation has started to cake at the places where I was sweating from nervousness. My eyes continued to roam critically from one feature to another as I planned the makeup look that I should go for. I let out a sigh of exasperation, knowing that I had to take off my makeup and start from scratch.

I hurriedly opened my makeup bag and laid out everything that I needed on the counter. I scanned each one and nodded as I placed my hands on my hips. It’s going to be a long night.

I first started the transformation process by completely removing the makeup that I had on earlier. The splash of cold water from my face instantly made me feel refreshed. It gave a sudden boost of energy. With this newfound spirit, I became determined to transform myself to a more confident woman. I envisioned my look for tonight as I started applying moisturizer on my face. I’m going for a look that says ‘I’m a strong independent woman’. I applied different makeup products on my face excitedly as I thought about going outside and surprising everyone with my transformation.

A smile formed my lips as I examined my reflection. I must admit that I wasn't beautiful in the “classical” way like Casey Bishop; I had no flowing golden curls or ivory skin; no green piercing eyes and luscious, full lips. I was shorter than the average because of my asian genes and I was certainly fuller than a catwalk model, but through my makeup abilities I am able to make my ordinariness into something that is considered to be stunning. Something radiated from within that rendered me irresistible to both genders. This alter ego I have created for myself has made men desire me and women to court my friendship.

I breathed out a sigh of relief as I started packing everything back inside. I ran a light hand through my hair, fixing it a little bit so that I’d look more put together. I took a deep breath as I took one last look and stepped out of the washroom.

I suddenly felt all eyes on me, making me a little bit uncomfortable. Did I do too much?

It was then I spotted Charlotte talking to the other staff. I quickly walked towards her and waved to catch her attention. “Charlotte, thank you for your eyeliner!” I said gratefully as I pulled it out from the bag and handed it to her. A look of confusion took over my face when I saw the expression on hers.

Her eyes were wide with shock and it had a hint of confusion. Her mouth was opened lightly as she tried to process what was in front of her. I arched an eyebrow at her as I waved a hand over her face. “Charlotte, you okay?”

She shook her head, snapping herself out of the trance she was in as she accepted her eyeliner. “You look so different.” She commented, still in awe. The other staff members that she was talking to turned their attention to me as well, making me flush with embarrassment.

“Is that a bad thing?” I asked sheepishly as I nervously rubbed the back of my neck. Charlotte along with other people shook their heads in response.

Charlotte gave me a small smile. “You look amazing.”

“Thanks!” I grinned at her, feeling satisfied that I got a compliment from her. “I gotta return these back.” I held up all the other makeup kits I had on my hand. As I walked across the room trying to find where the team members were, I can’t help but notice the stares targeted at me. Some people tried to be subtle about it but there are also others who were openly ogling. The sudden attention people were giving me made me feel shy. I was not used to this kind of recognition from others. I kept my head low as I walked past a bunch of guests.

I walked up to one of the production team members. “Hey, Ariadne! Thank you for your eyeshadow and mascara.” I flashed a thankful look at her as I handed over her things. Her eyebrows furrowed in confusion. It took awhile for her to recognize who I was. Her eyes widened in shock as it dawned on her that I was Sandra.

“Sandra! Wow girl, you look great!” She exclaimed happily, making me laugh at her reaction.

“Thank you!” I replied shyly while looking down, making Ariadne purse her lips.

“Be proud of yourself. Hold your chin up and walk back to the guests with confidence.” She uttered as she gripped my shoulders tightly and turned me back towards the guests. “Show them your true beauty.” She added and slightly pushed me to walk back to the hall. Her pep talk really boosted my morale. It gave me the energy I needed to do my job tonight despite Kevin being here.

“You’re right! Thanks, Ariadne.” I gave her a small nod and walked back to the gala. This time, I held my head high and walked with finesse. I can still feel the gaze people were darting at me but I just decided to ignore them and focus on my work. I made sure to check everything to make sure the event would run smoothly. While I was standing at the corner eyeing the whole room, I felt someone’s eyes on me.

From the corner of my eye, I could see a familiar figure approaching me. His eyes were fixated on me as he walked towards me. I turned towards him and held his gaze, trying not to flinch away. I tried to keep my cool as his strides were getting closer to me.

“Kevin...” I muttered under my breath, leaving a bitter taste in my mouth.