[ Note.. an introduction to a new idea, with an option to write more if it proves successful.. Maybe I should say its a"pilot" chapter.
Again my thanks to Pixie for her editing. All comments welcomed. ]
June was walking towards the entrance to the British Airways First Class lounge. She had her phone in hand and showed the hostess her boarding pass. Travelling was an occupational hazard in June's line of work, and she now insisted on travelling First Class for long distance flights, and Business if around Europe.
A week's shooting at the Rio de Janeiro festival for Vogue magazine was the latest assignment, just her and one other model. The pay of fifty thousand pounds a day made it a 'no brainer,' with and all travel expenses paid for, she couldn't refuse. The only question that remained in June's mind, was who was to be her co model. Her agent hadn't found anyone free until yesterday.
"Welcome back Miss Peters. Do make full use of the facilities and we will call you for your flight, which is unfortunately delayed by sixty minutes but should be boarding in about two hours."
It was now mid-day and if the flight left at 2. 30 pm with 11 hours 30 minutes flight time and 3-hour time difference she should be in Rio about 11.00 pm local time.
June sighed at the prospect of the long journey.
One of the downsides to flying was delays, and it happened all too often for June's liking. But considering where she was a few years ago, she just smiled and accepted the status quo.
"Thank you," she said, and walked to the corner of the lounge, putting her travel bag down and asking for a glass of white wine.
"Can I get you anything to eat Miss? Maybe a sandwich or salad perhaps?"
"No I'm fine at the moment thank you."
June always dressed casually when travelling, jeans, jumper, and flat shoes and
her hair tied back with a band. Although now recognised by many she hated fame, and would keep in the background so as not to be recognised. The paparazzi were everywhere at Heathrow looking for that one special shot to sell to the tabloids.
June picked up her phone again and pressed Pix's number on speed dial.
"Hi darling, we're delayed by an hour so it's going to be late into Rio. Maybe 2.00 am U.K. time. I'll phone you in the morning rather than wake you."
"Just send a text to say you've arrived safe. You know I worry when you travel long haul."
"Ok will do, and have a good week without me," she giggled. "Don't let Billy overspend the budget"
Pixie had a redecoration of Emily's to arrange with Billy, the rooms were getting a little tired and bar area needed an uplift.
"Speak to you tomorrow, love you more "
Just as she was hanging up there was a commotion at the entrance to the lounge...people gathered photographers and paparazzi shuffled each other.
Now what? June thought and looked on.
There she was, glamorous as ever, posing for photographs, smiling, and calling everyone darling. June knew this voice only too well.
Cara walked through into the lounge leaving everyone in her wake.
"Oh June I'm so pleased it's you - we're going to have such fun over the next week, darling." She gave her a huge hug and kiss on the cheek.
"How on earth did you manage to get on this trip Cara? I thought you were busy with Stella."
"Oh she got covid and the shoot was cancelled, which meant I was free and as you well know, any chance of working with the hottest girl in town is right up my street.