Chapter 92: Fashion Show PT 3
As the fashion show came to a close, Arell and India remained in their seats, talking quietly while the crowd began to disperse. The energy between them had shifted, a new intimacy born from their honest conversation earlier.
"So," India said, her fingers tracing patterns on Arell's arm, "I've been thinking about getting some new tattoos. What do you think?"
Arell grinned, his eyes glinting with a hint of mischief. "Yeah? Where are you thinking of putting them?"
India giggled, leaning in closer. "Maybe I'll show you later. You seemed to appreciate my current ones well enough."
Their flirtatious banter was interrupted as the rest of Arell's crew gathered around, ready to head out. As they made their way through the venue, Arell couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging.
As they approached the exit, a commotion near the doors caught their attention. Arell's eyes narrowed as he recognized the figure at the center of it all - Soulja Boy.
Soulja spotted them almost immediately, his eyes locking onto India. He swaggered over, completely ignoring Arell's presence.
"India, baby girl!" Soulja exclaimed, arms wide open for a hug. "Looking fine as ever!"
Before Soulja could embrace India, Arell stepped forward, his tone drifting between amused and threatening. "You gone have to chill on that, bro."
Soulja's eyes snapped to Arell, as if noticing him for the first time. His friendly demeanor instantly shifted to confrontational. "Oh, it's like that? You tryna step to me?"
Arell remained calm, but he could feel his crew tensing behind him, ready to move if needed. "It's not about stepping to anyone. It's about respect."
Soulja scoffed, his voice rising. "Respect? Let me tell you something, new blood. I already tapped that ass. You fucking my old bitch!"
The crude words hung in the air for a moment before Arell responded, his voice ice-cold. "You're disrespectful, not to me, but to her. You don't speak about a woman like that."
Soulja took a step forward, chest puffed out, but before he could say anything more, Geoffrey smoothly interjected.
"Mr. Way," Geoffrey said, his tone professional but with an underlying edge, "I'd advise you to reconsider your current course of action. It would be a shame if certain information about your... extracurricular activities in Atlanta last month were to become public knowledge."
Soulja's face paled slightly, his bravado faltering for a moment. Whatever Geoffrey was refering to clearly touched a nerve.
Cam leaned in close to Arell's ear, whispering, "We can handle him afterward if you want. Geoffrey's got a connect down here that brought some equipment. Just say the word."
Arell shook his head slightly, his eyes never leaving Soulja. "Nah, we're good. No need to escalate."
The tension in the air was palpable as Soulja looked between Arell, Geoffrey, and the rest of the crew. For a moment, it seemed like he might push things further, but then he took a step back.
"Whatever, man," Soulja muttered, trying to save face. "Y'all ain't worth my time anyway."
As Soulja stalked off, Arell turned to India, concern etched on his face. "You okay?"
India nodded "Yeah, I'm good. Thank you for standing up for me like that."
Arell wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close."Always."
As they stepped outside the venue, the Miami night air was thick with humidity and excitement. The paparazzi's cameras flashed incessantly, capturing the glitterati as they emerged from the fashion show.
"Hey, let's do a group photo!" Arell suggested, his eyes bright with excitement. As everyone began to gather, he noticed India starting to step away. Without hesitation, he reached out and gently pulled her back, wrapping his arm around her waist. "Where do you think you're going?" he teased
India looked up at him, a mix of surprise and pleasure on her face. "Are you sure?"
Arell's response was to hug her closer, his smile warm and genuine. "Of course I'm sure. You're with me now, remember?"
As the photographer counted down, Arell felt a surge of contentment, being photographed like they were Hollywood royalty. It was a moment he wanted to remember forever.
After the photos, they made their way to the line of waiting SUVs. The night air was filled with laughter and excited chatter as everyone recapped their favorite moments from the show. As they approached the vehicles, Geoffrey pulled Arell aside.
"So, about Diddy's afterparty," Geoffrey began, his voice low. "Did you want to attend?"
Arell paused, considering. The idea of rubbing elbows with even more industry heavyweights was tempting, but he glanced back at his crew, laughing and joking together. "Would everyone be allowed to go?" he asked.
Geoffrey's hesitation was answer enough. "I'm not sure. It's a pretty exclusive event..."
Arell shook his head firmly. "Then we're not going. If we can't all go, none of us go. We're a team."
Just then, India chimed in. "My sisters and I are heading to the party. You guys should definitely come!"
Arell looked around at his crew, seeing the excitement in their eyes at the prospect of attending such a high-profile event. "What do you all think? You want to hit up Diddy's party?"
A chorus of enthusiastic agreements met his question. Arell grinned, turning back to Geoffrey. "Alright, looks like we're going to Diddy's afterparty."
They piled into the SUVs and as they pulled away from the curb, Arell couldn't help but marvel at how far they'd come. Just a short time ago, they were dreaming of making it big. Now, they were on their way to party with some of the biggest names in the industry.
The convoy of vehicles first made a stop to drop India off with her sisters. As she climbed out of the SUV, Arell caught her hand. "I'll see you there?" he asked, his eyes searching hers.
India smiled, leaning in to place a quick kiss on his cheek. "Save me a dance," she whispered before disappearing into the night.
As they resumed their journey to the afterparty venue Arell sat back, taking it all in. He felt a tap on his shoulder and turned to see Geoffrey smiling at him. "You handled that situation with Soulja Boy like a pro," Geoffrey said. "I'm proud of you."
Arell nodded, grateful for the praise. "Thanks. I just did what felt right."
As they drove, the Miami skyline glittered against the night sky. The SUVs wound their way through the city, eventually turning onto a private road that led to the coastline. As they approached their destination, everyone fell silent in awe.
The afterparty venue was a oceanside mansion that seemed to glow from within. Its modern architecture was a stunning blend of glass, steel, and warm wood, with multiple levels cascading down towards the beach. Palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, their fronds illuminated by strategically placed lighting.
Luxury cars lined the circular driveway, and even from inside the SUV, they could hear the bass of the music pulsing from within the mansion. As they pulled up to the entrance, a team of valets rushed forward to greet them.
Arell and his crew stepped out, the grandeur of the mansion leaving them momentarily awestruck. The entrance was guarded by imposing security, each guard scanning the guests with a discerning eye. As Arell approached, the lead security guard held up a hand.
"You're good, but they ain't on the list," the guard said, gesturing to Arell's crew.
Arell's eyes narrowed. "Nah, ya'll gone have to let us all in."
Before the situation could escalate, a familiar voice rang out. "Arell!" Diddy emerged from the mansion, his arm immediately wrapping around Arell's neck in a brotherly embrace. "These my boys," Arell said firmly.
Diddy laughed, "Man, y'all straight. Pull up, come in." He turned to the security guard, his tone firm. "They're with me. Let them in."
The guard nodded, stepping aside to allow them entry. "Welcome to the party," he said, albeit reluctantly.
As they walked through the grand entrance, Diddy kept his arm around Arell's shoulder. "We're gonna really party tonight! Let me introduce you to my son, Justin."
Justin Combs stepped forward, flashing a charming smile. "What's up, man? Heard a lot about you. Nice to finally meet you."
Arell shook his hand, appreciating the warm welcome. "Nice to meet you too, Justin. This place is incredible."
The mansion's interior was a vision of luxury. Expansive rooms filled with opulent furniture, chandeliers that glittered like constellations, and walls adorned with contemporary art.
They moved deeper into the mansion, the crowd thick with celebrities, models, and industry insiders. Everywhere Arell looked, there were familiar faces. He spotted Wale in a deep conversation with Rick Ross, while Meek Mill and DJ Khaled animatedly discussed music.
Diddy led them to a more private section of the mansion, away from the main throng of partygoers. "This here is where we keep things a bit more chill," he explained. "You know, for when you need a break from all that madness out there."
Arell nodded, appreciating the gesture. "Thanks, Diddy. This means a lot."
Diddy waved it off. "Man, you family now. We're all about lifting each other up in this game." He pointed towards a group of people gathered around a table covered with an array of drinks and hors d'oeuvres. "Let me introduce you to some more folks."
Diddy led Arell to the heart of the group. "Everyone, this is Arell Rose. Remember the name, because you're gonna be hearing it a lot."
<>
As Devon mingled among the guests, he couldn't help but feel a bit out of place amidst the glamorous crowd. He had always been more comfortable being around a few people or on the streets than at high-profile parties like this. He took a sip of his drink, trying to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Just then, a man approached him, his demeanor confident and his smile charming. "Hey there," the man said, his voice smooth. "I couldn't help but notice you from across the room. You're Arell's friend right?"
Devon nodded cautiously, unsure of where this conversation was heading. "Yeah, that's me, I'm Devon. And you are?"
The man extended his hand. "I'm Marcus. I'm a talent scout for one of the major labels. I couldn't help but notice your style. You've got a certain... presence."
Devon shook his hand, his suspicion growing. "Thanks, man. I appreciate that."
Marcus moved a bit closer, his smile never wavering. "You know, I have an eye for talent, and I can tell you're more than just a pretty face. Ever thought about modeling? I think you could really make a name for yourself."
Devon chuckled, feeling a bit more at ease but still wary. "Nah, man. I'm more into music and production. Modeling isn't really my thing."
Marcus leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a more intimate tone. "Well, if you ever change your mind, I'd love to help you out. And if you ever just want to hang out, get to know each other better, I'm around."
Devon's smile tightened. "I appreciate the offer, but I'm good. Just here to support my boy Arell and enjoy the night."
Marcus nodded, his smile faltering just a bit. "Alright, no pressure. Just thought I'd put it out there. Have a great night, Devon."
As Marcus walked away, Devon couldn't shake the uncomfortable feeling. He took a deep breath, deciding to stick closer to Arell and the others for the rest of the night.
Meanwhile, across the room, Arell was deep in conversation with Diddy.
"Man, you look good as hell," Diddy said, his eyes scanning Arell from head to toe. "Like a model, I swear. You ever think about doing some work in fashion?"
Arell laughed, a bit taken aback by the compliment. "Nah, not really. I'm more focused on the music right now."
Diddy nodded, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Well, you keep that up. But don't be surprised if you get some offers. You got the look, and you carry yourself like a star."
Arell smiled, appreciating the praise. "Thanks, Diddy."
Diddy clapped him on the shoulder. "We're gonna party hard tonight boy. You better be ready!" With that, he turned and mingled with another group of guests.
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