Everybody hates Claudia!

[Siren]

Nicolas: And you look great in your OWN right. Are you my co-star?

With a grin.

"Cuute. No, i'm just an innocent bystander here to watch everything unfold."

An underlining hint of her own about why she was REALLY sticking around this photoshoot. Any normal woman with a sexual attraction to a man wouldn't be attempting to blow up his ex-girlfriend's world and using him as the ammo. Which in turn could hurt HIM as well. BUT, Claudia wasn't just any woman. She could see the current of lust in his eyes as she adjusted his tie. That current immediately CUT OFF when faced with Morgan. He was a young man--younger than Claudia--who had fallen hard for a woman that he truly believed he could be with. Who was probably STILL IN love with her. But Claudia was banking on Nicolas being angry with her for what she was about to do, but wanting to take his anger out in a more....productive manner rather than screaming and playing the blame game.

As Nicolas answered her double sided question with a double sided answer, Claudia's smirk turned into a laugh, her head shaking at his spitefire attitude. Leaning back away from him, he in turn leaned forward, making sure to touch her leg. Lowering her line of sight to his hand, after a couple beats, she raised her eyes to meet with Nicolas'; lifting a single brow playfully.

Nicolas: Thanks for the assist. Seriously Claudia, I am glad you are OK.

[shrugging his comment off] "I've been through worse. Trust me."

Nicolas: I take it you are here to make sure I do my job today. Well, tell me where to be, BOSS.

Pushing herself off the vanity, Claudia took the crook of Nicolas' arm with her hand, leading him out of his dressing room.

"I'm only here to make sure there are no....kinks in today's shoot. No unfoeseen complications, if you will."

Heading down the hallway with him, Claudia could see the sound stage afar.

"A fair warning however, the spokes model you'll be working with in this campaign is a MAJOR diva. Odds are she'll throw a hissy fit about something today."

As Claudia and Nicolas made they're way onto the sound stage, FINALLY, Nicolas would see that MORGAN was, in fact, the model she had just been speaking about.

"....But i'm sure you're already aware of that. [approaching Morgan] Nicolas King, meet your new co-star in this campagin....Morgan. Victoria."

 

[Rampage]

Pushing herself off the vanity, Claudia took the crook of Nicolas' arm with her hand, leading him out of his dressing room.

"I'm only here to make sure there are no....kinks in today's shoot. No unfoeseen complications, if you will."

Heading down the hallway with him, Claudia could see the sound stage afar.

"A fair warning however, the spokes model you'll be working with in this campaign is a MAJOR diva. Odds are she'll throw a hissy fit about something today."

As Claudia and Nicolas made they're way onto the sound stage, FINALLY, Nicolas would see that MORGAN was, in fact, the model she had just been speaking about.

"....But i'm sure you're already aware of that. [approaching Morgan] Nicolas King, meet your new co-star in this campagin....Morgan. Victoria."

Nicolas initially froze as he reached the stage and saw her. Morgan. Right there. He had a visceral response that something was wrong, that there was no WAY she would agree to this. But, as young men often do, he had a glimmer of hope that she was told of this and that she accepted it, that maybe everything, in spite of what had happened, would still be all right. SOMEHOW.

In spite of the curveball thrown at him, he stayed calm and was respectful as he addressed the sorceress/model.

Morgan...it is an honor to work with you again. I appreciate it very much.

 

[Arsenal]

As Mike sat with Karen, he waited for everything to begin. he noticed the noise out back, but resisted the urge to run back to try to help. THIS one he was sitting out. He finally saw Morgan come out to the stage and get ready, talking to the photographer. Haleigh made her appearance as well, working the lighting and giving Morgan a nod. Then, mike's jaw dropped through the floor, the ground, all the way to CHINA. Nicolas was being led out and introduced as the model working with Morgan!! Mike turned to Karen, whispering in harsher language than he would normally use in her presence, but the sorceress would recognize that the language matched the situation.

I hope that this is not some idea of a sick joke, babe. Because this is about to be the mother of all shitstorms...

 

[Spellbinder]

MAC sound stage

<< Morgan was standing WITH the other female models. When WORKING on a set, Morgan was never one to act like she was "above" everyone. That was why Illustra was such a magnet for models, they knew their boss had the administrative AND field experience AND that she would take care of them. But now, though Morgan was a veteran among the group, she still felt it necessary to connect with these younger women. When the time came for her to take her place BACK at the top in a NEW company [ was was her ultimate goal anyway] she wanted to have a pool of young women to draw from.>>

<< Morgan spots Haleigh, who makes it a point to acknowledge her. Morgan nods back in return and smiles. the two had worked together in this capacity before. they made an excellent in this if nothing ELSE and Morgan assured the models that having Liquid Crystal as their photographer was the best backing possible. >>

<< they all stood, talking and relieved that their lead model was not a bitch or difficult to work with. She even gave encouraging words and helpfull hints to those who were "virgins" on the set.>>

<< but even as the women smiled and talked a bit, while taking the finishing touches of make up and hair checks, EVERYTHING stopped as Claudia appeared with....>>

"....But i'm sure you're already aware of that. [approaching Morgan] Nicolas King, meet your new co-star in this campagin....Morgan. Victoria."

NICOLAS KING!

<< Morgan BELLOWED as she saw him. the models around her froze, looking shocked at the sudden change in the tone of her voice.>>

WHAT is the meaning of this!?

<< she turns and GLARES at Claudia. THUNDER rumbles in the air, a sign that Morgan's agitation was SKY ROCKETING. from the lens of the cameras that Haleigh surveyed, she could SEE the demonic aspect of Morgan's "darkchilde" personal flickering around her. NOT a good sign. WHAT was Claudia thinking!?>>

<< As Nicolas spoke, Morgan waved her hand and cut him off.>>

oh SHUT UP, you silver tongued PHONEY! I don't know how you found your way to this campaign but Don't think for a MOMENT that you're going to get away with this...


I would like a word with you, Claudia...RIGHT NOW!


<< storming past Nicolas, Morgan PUSHES him aside and grabs Claudia by the arm, IMMEDIATELY closing her hand around the woman's arm and gripping it PAINFULLY as she leads her away from the sound stage. Morgan may not have been immediately aware that she was exerting her super strength on Claudia. >>

<< Everyone nearby on the set was suitably taken aback by Morgan's ANGRY reaction, afraid to even BREATHE too loud for fear that she might focus on THEM. Morgan leads Claudia away and back down the hall.>>

This is out of the question.

<< she said as she stopped and SPUN Claudia around to face her. the sorceress was taller and now looking down at the woman, her icy violet eyes sparkling with indignation.>>

Did you DELIBERATELY withhold the identity of the male prop from me until NOW? because when i presented you with the paper work for this campaign, I could have taken care of THAT aspect myself just as i had everything ELSE!

I can't...i will NOT work with him. he is...among other things, a stalker and NOT at all what he appears to be.

<< alluding to his true heritage AND her own encounters with the figure that was evoking the feeling and image of Nicolas that had been attacking her at various places.>>

This is.. among other things, a SECURITY issue. My personal safety is at risk!

 

[Shadow Weaver]

sound stage

<< as Karen seated herself, Mike IMMEDIATELY found his seat next to her.>>

Don't worry, Michael...I don't plan on disappearing anytime soon.

<< she said jokingly as Mike seemed not to want to let her out of his sight. It was both comforting AND yet still surprising sometimes.>>

<< watching the "behind the scenes" of what goes into a photo shoot and a commercial was something Karen had only done a few times before. Morgan had often invited her mother to shootings at Illustra or "on location" but back then, Karen was quite busy as an "in demand" psycho therapist. It was a little different now and Karen was happy to support her daughter in this first and most critical outing of her newly revived career.>>

<< Delilah and Blaze sat beside Karen to her right and they watched different people and large set pieces pass by. the sounds of equipment and other things filled the air.>>

<< Mike said that he never really got to appreciate these things before either as he always was working.>>

Yes, it should be fascinating and fun. I can FEEL the anticipation my daughter has in her heart...but there's something else...

<< Karen didnt go on, but through her bond with her daughter, she sensed the deep fear that something...SOMEONE was going to RUIN this for her. WHY would she think that? Who would be on hand to do such a thing?>>

<< the answer would becoming shockingly clear soon enough.>>

<< Karen spotted her daughter and waved, Morgan flashed her "mega watt" smile from afar. It didnt matter what others thought, Morgan was obviously looking beautifull and glamorous and to be UNDER 35, Karen thought it was ridiculous that her daughter was considered "too old" by some in the modeling industry. what would they think of KAREN if SHE were to appear in a print add? >>

<< a few moments later, Claudia could be seen, followed by...>>

oh my stars...

<< NICOLAS was following her...HE was going to be in this photo shoot and commercial! >>

I hope that this is not some idea of a sick joke, babe. Because this is about to be the mother of all shitstorms...

<< Karen furrowed her brow in agitation. Mike was only telling the OBVIOUS at this point.>>

this is outrageous!

<< she said in a hushed tone to be heard among those she was sitting with.>>

<< Morgan reacted with indignation, pushing Nicolas out of the way and grabbing hold of Claudia and quickly escorting her off to a side bar. Karen followed her daughter with her sapphire blue eyes.>>

<< she could FEEL the shock, the BETRAYAL and the RESENTMENT from her daughter. Karen looked at Delilah and Blaze...>>

where is Alison? why didnt she tell us about this!?

<< Karen looked at Nicolas, who stood on the sound stage trying his best to remain calm.>>

He knows he shouldnt be here. what was he THINKING!?

<< it didnt occurr to Karen YET that CLAUDIA had completely orchestrated this. That while Morgan may have secured the contract for Affinity with MAC, Claudia somehow made SURE that Nicolas of ALL possible male models in L.A. was the one that would be HERE TODAY. He wouldnt even HAVE "model" on his resume had it not been for Morgan and Alison giving him a contract at ILLUSTRA over a year ago!>>

<< Karen was on the edge of her seat, she wanted to go to her daughter immediately but this was Morgan's "job", she knew she had to let MORGAN handle this...for now. But aside from that, Karen felt the genuine FEAR from her daughter.>>

Nicolas' presence...it evokes a FEAR in my daughter that i havent seen...or FELT since the last days of Christopher terrorizing us...or worse...when she faced BLACK to try to save Blaze.

<< FEAR. They were ALL being menaced by Barbas, and the demon of fear's tactics had been ESCALATING thus far. Could HE have something to do with this? Morgan said that she'd been attacked or stalked by "NICOLAS" several times now...the pattern of behavior from a man who couldnt let a woman go. But while SOME immediately believe Barbas was behind this, KAREN was beginning to wonder if...>>

Barbas: your baby is being stalked, Karen. and you're just going to sit there and watch as he takes her career and smashes it to pieces before it even gets off the ground? you know how men like HIM are....

Karen: << looking very disturbed as she looks "out" but not at anything in particular.>> no... how ...are they?

<< speaking in a low tone.>>

Barbas: what they can't POSSESS, they DESTROY! Nicolas is a DANGER, Karen. He's making SURE that Morgan CAN'T escape him. He's getting closer and closer, until he can strike the final blow!

Karen: << bowing her head and putting her hand on her forehead.>> no...no that's not true! it's...

Barbas: yes it IS! why ELSE would he be HERE of ALLLLLL places??

Karen: << stands up.>> oh my goddess!

<< she says with a fearfull look on her face.>>

He shouldn't be here!

 

[Black Widow]

MAC photo shoot

Most of the family arrived and took spectator's seats. Haleigh continued to confer with her staff, arranging for the final alterations to be made.... they were almost ready. Haleigh anticipated the shoot would go smoothly and, if SHE had anything to do with it, Morgan's return to her industry would be an undisputed success.

Unfortunately... she wasn't the only person here with a stake in what would happen.... and she could hardly do anything but WATCH as Claudia lead none other than NICOLAS out onto the set. Morgan [understandably] made a scene, and the entire set went silent as Morgan hauled Claudia off down the hall, presumably to send her into next sunday via eldritch bolt. the staff all stood around, not sure what to do. Haleigh separated from her LCI staff and called attention to herself.

"ALRIGHT... EVERYONE... You've got JOBS to do, let's go! TIME IS MONEY, People. [as the background models started whispering amongst themselves] LADIES..... go ahead and get set up for a couple of test shots before we bring the Principles in."

Karen stood abruptly and lamented that Nicolas shouldn't be here, and after shooting Mike a 'DO something with her' look, she gestured to Karen to stay where she was, as Haleigh herself moved in on Nicolas, taking a deep breath to prevent herself from SCREAMING at him.

"Oh.... I am SO SURE you have an EXCELLENT explanation for this."

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah jumped up from her seat reflexively as Nicolas appeared on the stage.

That IDIOT! Doesn’t he know when to quit? He’s ruining her comeback…Morgan could KILL him for this!

And then he tried to SPEAK to her.

Dumb dumb dumb dumb dumb.

Morgan GRABBED Claudia by the arm and marched her off. Delilah actually slapped her forehead. Morgan’s temper was going to mess things up for her worse than Nicolas could. All she needed was to get a reputation for being difficult…or a headcase.

Delilah was tense, torn. She moved to go to the set and then stopped, more than once. But she couldn’t let Morgan destroy herself. She glanced at Karen as she said,

“I’m going over there.”

Then she looked at Karen again, who had a strange look on her face and had stood.

“Karen?”

<< stands up.>> oh my goddess!

<< she says with a fearful look on her face.>>

He shouldn't be here!

“Karen, calm down. We’ll sort it, I promise…”

But something wasn’t right. She looked at Mike for help.

“What’s going on?”

 

[Rampage]

oh SHUT UP, you silver tongued PHONEY! I don't know how you found your way to this campaign but Don't think for a MOMENT that you're going to get away with this...


I would like a word with you, Claudia...RIGHT NOW!

Nicolas froze but stayed composed as Morgan bellowed at him then stormed off. The realization hit him like a ton of bricks, that Morgan had NO IDEA he was to be here, and he was unknowing as well.

He heard a commotion in the audience as Karen stood and exclaimed. he looked at her momentarily, his own face at once puzzled and stunned.

He could "hear " Mike thinking out to him...

Nic...please tell me you have a GREAT explanation for this.

and Haleigh speaking to him at once.

"Oh.... I am SO SURE you have an EXCELLENT explanation for this."

He responded at once to them both, mentally and verbally.

I did not know she was here...I can't read her thoughts. OR Claudia's. Claudia signed me to do some modeling, the proceeds to charity. She got me a job immediately after I signed, and the charities even get a bonus for me doing this. I wouldn't have done it if I knew that MORGAN was here, and would act like THIS!

Nicolas was exasperated, and he was ready to look for a hole to climb into...

 

[Arsenal]

Mike saw Morgan exclaim, then storm off.

Awww, shit.

Karen looked like she would jump out of her skin, at once indecisive and yet speaking out of turn as she stood up.

oh my goddess!

<< she says with a fearfull look on her face.>>

He shouldn't be here!

Mike caught Haleigh's eye as she approached Nicolas and he stood also, steadying Karen and silently urging her to sit as he sent a thought to Nicolas.

Nic...please tell me you have a GREAT explanation for this.

He responded promptly, letting Mike know what he knew as well as Haleigh. Meanwhile, Delilah spoke to him.

“What’s going on?”

Mike was thinking quickly and he came up with EXACTLY what was going on. He was a bit too old to be fooled by this.

This Claudia lady thought it would be funny to put exes together for a photo shoot. Nicolas cannot read her mind...it's shielded somehow, and she signed him to an incredible contract with his income going to charity. He even got a bonus to be here, where he is JUST as surprised to see Morgan as she is to see him. He tried to play it off...and here we are. People, let's be ready in case, but for right now, let Haleigh try to work this out. The last thing Morgan needs is for all of us to storm the stage and damage her reputation further.

 

[Harbinger]

MAC photo shoot

:: thunder rolls and CRASHES as everyone OUTSIDE of the Six and family were FROZEN where they stood via temporal stasis.::

:: Harbinger blinks in, laying across one of the set pieces that was to appear in the commercial, she was holding her TIME STAFF as well which amplifies her power. she looks very casual in her expression, ALMOST amused...KNOWING that Karen and Delilah [and probably MIKE ] were about to question her.::

:: Alison knows she has precious MOMENTS before she must disappear to remain concealed from Claudia, but she's here to HELP.::

:: she looks at Karen, who is fussing at Mike.::

It's Barbas, he's tormenting Karen, playing on her FEAR of her daughter being stalked and ultimately assaulted by NICOLAS. Hold on to her Mike...

:: she looks at Delilah and Blaze who both glare at he while she slips off the double chaise lounge and makes her way toward them.::

Delilah, I told you in the courtyard that I couldnt be here until i was MEANT to. THIS is the time for me to be here. If i had told ANYBODY about what was going to happen, the change in the course of events would have done JUST AS MUCH if not MORE damage to Morgan's comeback. As it stands right now, this CAN be salvaged.

:: she beckons Nicolas and Haleigh over.::

Nicolas doesnt mean any harm, Karen, Delilah....I ASSURE you of that. He was just as unaware of what was to happen as Morgan...and this is all because of HER [Claudia] NOW do you see why I said she is more trouble than she's worth!?

:: she looks at Haleigh.::

You're going to have to STAY on Morgan to keep her focused on the TASK at hand. The shoot WILL go on, Morgan will realize that there is too much at stake, not just with her, but her reputation with those in "high places". Delilah, you need to make your way down that hall, to stop Morgan for beating the HELL out of Claudia. It's not TIME for Claudia to know that Morgan is a witch...what she can do. Claudia is FAR from helpless, and BANKS on people underestimating her.

Everybody else just take a moment to CALM DOWN and stay where you are...Karen, you KNOW we wouldnt let anything happen to Morgan. and you KNOW that Barbas is somewhere trying to exploit this. We can't stop him yet...we can't even out wit him ALL of the time, but if we STAY TOGETHER as best we can...that will make all the short term difference.

I have to go now...but Delilah, go ahead and make your way down to where Morgan is. everyone else, get back to where you were. as soon as i leave, everything will unfreeze as it was before i arrived!

 

[Siren]

Morgan's face once seeing Nicolas was PRICELESS. Her shrieking his name was even better. It took everything for Claudia to supress the gleeful smile she wanted to desperately to spread across her lips. But she needed to remain 'professional'. Make MORGAN look like the psycho primadonna model.

Morgan: WHAT is the meaning of this!?

Claudia simply stood there, her eyes glittering with amusement. Nicolas decided to try and speak up to which Morgan blew a gasket. Everyone in the studio became quiet. A pin could have dropped and it would have been the loudest noise imaginable.

Morgan: I would like a word with you, Claudia...RIGHT NOW!

"Of course."

She slyly stated, feeling Morgan's hand wrap around her upper arm like a steal trap before dragging her off the soundstage and to the back hallway. Her grip was intense; an indication that one of Morgan's powers had to be super strength. Expression some slight discomfort as they came to a stop, Morgan whipped Claudia around to which she roughly yanked her arm away from the blonde's grip.

Morgan: This is out of the question. Did you DELIBERATELY withhold the identity of the male prop from me until NOW? because when i presented you with the paper work for this campaign, I could have taken care of THAT aspect myself just as i had everything ELSE!

"I did withhold that information because it's within MY RIGHT as owner of Affinity Models. You may have landed MAC for this company and put together this campaign, but if you had read our contract more thoroughly you would know I have the authority to trump all of your decisions when dealing with a prospective client, because YOU are working for ME. It's all in the fine print, sweetie. This buisness is about supply and demand, Morgan. I THOUGHT you knew that. MAC wanted the same numbers and the same possitive feedback that your campaign with Nicolas recieved last year. They asked for it, I gave it to them. And if you VALUE your 'comeback' as much as you say you do, you'll leave your personal issues with Nicolas AT HOME and keep this a professional atmosphere. I'm not about to stand here and become a playground moderator because the two of you have past relationship issues."

Claudia kept her demeanor professional, even after Morgan drug her away from the photoshoot like a mother would a naughty little girl. If Morgan wanted to fly off the handles and make herself look like a fool, Claudia wasn't about to stand in her way. But she wasn't about to make HERSELF look bad either. So she rubbed the salt in Morgan's wound more subtly.

Morgan: I can't...i will NOT work with him. he is...among other things, a stalker and NOT at all what he appears to be. This is.. among other things, a SECURITY issue. My personal safety is at risk!

Supressing the need to roll her eyes, was this woman for real? Did she really believe she had such sway over Nicolas that he would resort to stalking HER? It was funny...almost laughable. Unbeknownst to her, it was all because of BARBAS. Perhaps if she would have known that Claudia wouldn't have pushed the issue. She was a conniving bitch....but even SHE wouldn't want to subject anyone to Barbas' trickery.

"Fine. I'll call up MAC and tell them we're cancelling today's photoshoot. Although I'm not sure how willing they would be to work with you again once they find out the reason behind their loss of money. Not to mention other companies."

Claudia withdrew her blackberry, having no intention of actually calling MAC, but SEEING if Morgan would call her bluff. Regardless if she did stop her or not, the outcome would be favorable for Claudia. Morgan either HAD to work with Nicolas and the photoshoot would be hilarious to watch, OR, MAC would fire Morgan from their campaign and her name would be tarnished in the fashion industry before her 'much anticipated comeback'.

 

[MorningStar]

When Delilah saw Alison, her eyes flashed in a second of anger – until she realized that Alison did what she had to do. It wasn’t easy being able to see the future, and Delilah was trying to be more sensitive towards that since the destruction of Illustra.

She nodded as Alison told her to make her way to Morgan. She walked briskly, almost at a run but not quite. She could see Morgan and Claudia ahead of her in the hallway, and she slowed her pace, listening to what they were saying and trying to gauge the situation.

"Fine. I'll call up MAC and tell them we're cancelling today's photoshoot. Although I'm not sure how willing they would be to work with you again once they find out the reason behind their loss of money. Not to mention other companies."

“I’m sure that won’t be necessary.”

Delilah said it in her most professional, cop tone of voice, as she walked forward and stood near the two women.

“Morgan, Nicolas didn’t know that you were going to be in the shoot with him either. A reliable source confirmed it.”

As she said this, she put two fingers of her right hand into a v shape and pointed to her eyes, indicating to Morgan that the trusted source was Alison. Despite her personal feelings about Nicolas, Morgan's career was at stake. And this time, it wouldn't be her fault that she lost it.

She turned to Claudia.

“Miss Victoria was just startled by King’s presence. I know she wouldn’t want to damage such a mutually profitable relationship.”

Now turning to her friend, pointedly.

“Right, Morgan?”

 

[Spellbinder]

down the hall

<< Morgan rolled HER eyes, exclaiming with a laugh as Claudia attempted to YANK the chain, pulling the "remember the contract" line. Morgan was about to show HER that she had MORE than she bargained for.>>

Get this straight, you little bitch, contract or NO contract, You don't OWN me and I do not get SAND BAGGED, especially by some flash in the pan UPSTART who doesnt know the FIRST THING about "profesionalism". I didn't get where I am by bending over and letting tarts like YOU fuck me without vaseline.

MONEY isnt the key here, NOR are statistics...its about CONNECTIONS and whether you want to admit it or not...I have the connections that will make OR BREAK Affinity.

<< Claudia continued to play the role of "oh my god you're insane" as she casually offered to cancel the shoot and deliberately make Morgan look like she was impossible to work with. Claudia might have thought she had Morgan against the wall, but what she DIDNT know was that when THIS happened? Morgan became almost BLOOD thirsty when she came out fighting.>>

you just TRY and tarnish my name, with the phone calls I could make? your agency would become an overpriced, spacious GHOST TOWN.

<< Delilah appears! and at that moment, Claudia is suitably distracted...>>


<< Morgan SMACKS Claudia's Blackberry out of her hand with such force that it flies into the wall and shatters.>>

You are a real piece of work, you are no better than a scumbag hustler on Hollywood Blvd with a storefront office peddling porn and passing his stars off as models. I see that now. people like you don't last very long.

<< Delilah attempted to smooth things over, informing Morgan t hat NICOLAS had nothing to do with this "meeting" between them. the "V" with the fingers under her eyes was the "witches honor" code...which meant ALISON must have been present now. After pausing for a moment, Morgan backed off a bit...agreeing with Delilah with gritted teeth.>>

Profitable yes...but little ELSE.

<< she turns to walk away but then turns back and HEMS Claudia up against the wall.>>

I will do what I need to do today, INSPITE of your little stunt, but get THIS straight you conniving little piece of DIRT...no CONTRACT will protect you from what I will do to you if you pull this shit again...do you understand? a NULLFIED CONTRACT will be the least of your OR my worries and the REST WONT MATTER EITHER!

<< Morgan leaves her where she stands and walks away...fists clenched.>>

that stupid bitch! who does she think she's playing with!?

<< Delilah would know that was not a vieled threat, it was FLAT OUT. If Claudia wanted to try to pull Morgan's chain, Morgan will rip the chain out of the wall and claudia's arm out of its socket! :fdevil: some things werent worth even a lucrative modeling contract...Morgan's dignity being one of them. she wouldnt be ANYONE'S bitch and Claudia would find working with Morgan to be VERY difficult behind the scenes now. She got what she wanted...but at a heavy cost. Morgan HATED when people tried to do things like this to her.>>

 

[Black Widow]

Nicolas: "I did not know she was here…"

Haleigh wanted to knock him on his ASS and shout 'YOU'RE A GODDAMNED TELEPATH'… but she utilized all the self control she HAD to avoid such an outburst… instead shouting it mentally.

Nicolas: "I can't read her thoughts. OR Claudia's."

"What about MINE? I can't keep you OUT of MY head, Nicolas! I KNEW both of them would be involved!"

Nicolas: "Claudia signed me to do some modeling, the proceeds to charity. She got me a job immediately after I signed, and the charities even get a bonus for me doing this. I wouldn't have done it if I knew that MORGAN was here, and would act like THIS!"

[glaring at him irritably] "I know about you and Claudia, and so HELP ME GOD, Nicolas…. If I find out you were IN on this ANY way…"

She didn't finish her sentence… COULDN'T. not only were there too many people milling about… but putting her seething rage into words proved to be difficult at the moment. Alison appeared and called them over…. And put in a good word for Nicolas and named Claudia for the surprise. Haleigh didn't doubt her involvement… she knew it was EXACTLY the kind of thing Claudia would do… but she found it difficult to believe Nicolas would be ignorant of the whole thing and she was a little upset with HERSELF for not pushing HARDER to find out who the male model was BEFOREHAND. Of course… this thing with Barbas had thrown everyone off their game. Alison, falling into the familiar role of tactician, gave everyone a job to do and Haleigh nodded gently at her role.

"Wait, Alison… before you go… is there ANYTHING ELSE that Claudia has up her sleeve…. That you'd maybe like to give us a heads up on??"

 

[Harbinger]

MAC campaign

:: Alison looked at Haleigh. It was clear that Haleigh was more than a little upset by the stunt Claudia pulled as well. Alison had to give it to the woman, she was clever indeed. The precog would have taken the time to see a time thread where Siren and BANE had gotten together, since both were so similar in their ways of doing things but now was not the time for that.::

:: Alison may have been able to validate Nicolas' innocence, but she was unable and UNWILLING to help him out on his low standing with Haleigh, that was something the two of them had brought about and it required no involvement from her.::

:: Delilah left to see to Morgan, who was getting rough with Claudia and everyone else remained where they were. When asked if there was anything ELSE she could warn them about, Alison shook her head to the negative.::

Nothing that would be of any real benefit. No matter what she does...Claudia is on a collision course with disaster, both personal and professional. her own actions may cause us distress, but they also cause HER setbacks as well that even she cant see right now.

:: she looks at Haleigh and Nicolas::

I told the both of you once before about her ...and you didnt listen. Maybe NOW you'll heed my words.

:: but even as she said that, she knew Claudia wasnt quite finished with Nicolas yet. Nicolas was a young man, and Claudia knew just how to reach him on all the RIGHT levels Barbas was using this to his advantage...but it wouldnt last for long.::

We'll talk later... Now i have to go.

:: she motions for Haleigh and Nicolas to go back exactly where they were.::

:: as she BLINKED out, thunder crashes and then everyone/thing is unfroze just as Morgan, Delilah and perhaps Claudia return to the area in view of everyone.::

 

[Siren]

Morgan began to fly off the handle finally giving Claudia the excuse to smile. The models fuse was about as short as hers was.

Morgan: I didn't get where I am by bending over and letting tarts like YOU fuck me without vaseline.

"No, I guess connected corperate types who can make you a household name again are more your style. Because that's the ONLY reason why you're still in this industry, sweetheart. You're a common, waffer thin, old, haggered BITCH who needs to realize when her time has come and gone.

Morgan: MONEY isnt the key here, NOR are statistics...its about CONNECTIONS and whether you want to admit it or not...I have the connections that will make OR BREAK Affinity.

"Affinity has been around LONG before Morgan Victoria became apart of it. And it will be around LONG AFTER you leave it."

Morgan: you just TRY and tarnish my name, with the phone calls I could make? your agency would become an overpriced, spacious GHOST TOWN.

"Try it, and you'll see WHY I gained the reputation I have."

Her words were laced with venom, glaring Morgan straight in the eyes until she heard another woman's voice.

Delilah: “I’m sure that won’t be necessary.”

Shifting her eyes over to Delilah for a split second, it gave Morgan enough time to slap her blackberry out of her hand and into the wall, shattering it. Her eyes moved from her cell phone and back onto Morgan's; they were filled with amusement.

Morgan: You are a real piece of work, you are no better than a scumbag hustler on Hollywood Blvd with a storefront office peddling porn and passing his stars off as models. I see that now. people like you don't last very long.

"Why don't you ask your friend Sharon Kelly how long i've lasted against her idel threats and warnings?"

An indication to Morgan that she was not the only one who has had problems with Claudia. Watching Delilah try to talk Morgan down and return to the shoot, the two blondes turned away, but before Morgan took a step she quickly hemmed Claudia up against the wall. Claudia laughing at her outburst.

Morgan: no CONTRACT will protect you from what I will do to you if you pull this shit again...do you understand? a NULLFIED CONTRACT will be the least of your OR my worries and the REST WONT MATTER EITHER!


"Better woman than YOU have tried to take me down....And. I'm. Still. STANDING."

Claudia pushed Morgan away, watching as she and her friend headed down the hallway and back to the soundstage. Smoothing out her knee length pencil skirt and straightening her red blouse, the brunette looked more pissed now than she did when interacting with Morgan. Noticing a figure out from the corner of her eye, Claudia looked down the hall seeing an intern standing in awe at what she just witnessed. Claudia's eyes were narrowed with irritation, but like any Zacchara, she decided to use this to her advantage. Softening her eyes, she started down the hall toward the young intern; her body stiffening in fear.

"Were you standing there entire time?"

Intern: "I...I was just getting some hairspray...I-I didn't see anything."

Claudia gave her a 'you're lying to me look' with a small smile.

"It's okay, you can tell me the truth. Did you witness everything that just happened between Morgan Victoria and myself?"

The intern looked like a deer in the headlights, debating on which answer wouldn't get her fired. Or even KILLED. She was WELL aware of who Claudia Zacchara was and the reputation of her family.

"...Yeah...I saw it."

[grinning] "Good. Now I want you to call EVERY tabloid magaizne in publication and tell them EXACTLY what you just witnessed. Morgan Victoria having a meltdown on set, then threatening a co-worker's life because the models weren't up to her 'specifications'. But leave my name out, do you understand?"

The intern quickly nodded.

"Yes. I understand."

"Good. And if I find out for any reason you haven't done this, or you somehow paint Morgan Victoria in a good light, I will find every single person you have ever loved and kill them while you watch. Kay?"

The intern's eyes went from scared to utterly petrified; filling with tears at the mention of Claudia murdering her family and friends. She nodded once again, quickly turning to head into a private room to do as she was told. Grabbing the crook of the interns arm before she slipped away, the young girls skin began to ripple, as did Claudia's [think Rogue in X-Men movies] as the mutant began to absorb all of the girls memories.

"Alexandra Gray, daughter to Jean and Thomas Gray. Two younger siblings named Madison and Cameron.....aww, and one's only two years old. What a sweet little family. [pulling the intern to her roughly] Remember to leave my name out of this, Alex. Your loved ones depend on it."

Dizzy from Claudia using her powers on her, the girl quickly ran down the hall, phone in hand, heading into one of the dressing rooms to make the phone calls. Unlike her father, Claudia would NEVER intentionally hurt a child, but she needed to proove her point that she wasn't fucking around. Especially after what just happened with Morgan. Turning on her heel, Claudia headed down the hallway and back to the soundstage, finally coming into view after being drug away by Morgan. Walking past Haleigh, Claudia gave her a smile.

"Told you I wouldn't miss this for the world."

Taking a seat in one of the many directors chairs set up away from Morgan's posse, Claudia crossed her legs and sat back, waiting for the shoot to start.

 

[Firebird]

"That arrogant piece of sh-" Blaze had to bite her bottom lip from finishing that sentence after she saw Morgan AND Nicolas. Why was he stealing her thunder? Shaking her head in irritation while Delilah, Haleigh, Karen all shared a similar reaction. Mike would continue to defend his friend like usual. Morgan would harshly pull Claudia off the site of the shoot as thunder reverberated.

Standing up, Blaze turned towards Delilah, "I'm backing you up on that, D." Blaze wasn't willing to let Delilah go off on her own. She would be her back up. Blaze knew who Claudia was after doing a little bit of digging. She had connections to the underworld and Mob. She was no good and it seemed she purposely orchestrated this whole mess. It irked Blaze to no end someone would attempt to rain on her sister's parade.

The entourage of agents, photographers, crew, models all froze and in blinked Alison. Blaze glared at the Seer not necessarily her but her facial expression. Alison seemed so casual about this when Morgan was reflecting signs of her 'darkchilde' aspect. "I hope you have a good explanation, Alison." Clenching her teeth, Blaze looked off to the side before listening as the Seer explained. As annoyed as Blaze was she would nod. "Alright."

Taking a step back to her seat while Alison confirmed that Karen had been crippled with fear by Barbas. Blaze moved closer to Karen while Delilah excused herself to go to Morgan. Reaching down for Karen's hand to squeeze it while Mike sat on the other side of her.

"Don't worry Karen, Delilah is going to check up on that harlot."

Placing her arm around Karen for support while she looked over to Mike to nod to him for words of support. "It's all okay." Muttering under her breath, "If that bitch hurts Morg or Delilah I'm gonna melt that pretty face right off." Turning to flash Karen a grin, "You could always turn her into a toilet brush." Winking to the older woman while the rest of the models, agents, photographers, etc. unfroze.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas looked as Haleigh asked the question mentally.

"What about MINE? I can't keep you OUT of MY head, Nicolas! I KNEW both of them would be involved!"

I have tried to ignore your thoughts ever since I went to check on you and found you in bed with Zachary, talking about me like I was NOTHING when not a week before you professed UNDYING love. You pick who you want to bang, but I would have thought that if you ever cared, if your so-called LOVE ever meant anything, that it would at least have some DIGNITY to it.

Nicolas listened as Alison would tell what exactly was going on, and how she did it. He understood but was disappointed in Morgan as well. It was one thing to be angry that he and Haleigh did what they did, or to be angry at what happened yesterday or at the stunt pulled today, but this "security risk" shit was sounding like a DIVA not in touch with reality. Morgan had more than enough power of her own and her rough handling of Claudia showed Nicolas who ELSE had a control problem. Not to mention that in HIS work all was not always swell and hunky-dory, but he would NEVER comport himself in this way in a business setting. It WAS unprofessional. After Alison spoke Nicolas returned to his position and stood quietly, waiting for what was to come. He had no plans to leave. His charities would get their money and he would honor his committment, at least today.

 

[Black Widow]

Alison said that there was nothing of worth to share with them… and Haleigh took her word for it, returning to her position next to Nicolas as HE tried to get a BARB in about her and Zach. Haleigh looked about APOPLECTIC.

Don't EVEN GO THERE, Nicolas! YOU were too busy trying to reel Morgan back in to CARE how I felt, too worried about AVOIDING ME per ALISON'S ORDERS to REALIZE that the ONE THING you could do to honor my PROMISE to stand by you was to NOT ABANDON ME! No, YOU backed out on ME, Nicolas. You threw my love away, don't you DARE try to put that on me.

Claudia came out from the hall first, still alive, still in one piece, and though initially she was scowling, she flashed Haleigh a smug smile.

Claudia: "Told you I wouldn't miss this for the world."

Haleigh pursed her lips, irritated not only with what Claudia had KNOWINGLY done, but also with Nicolas, first for being completely ignorant of the whole thing, and secondly for trying to say it was HER FAULT that he didn't know.

"I hope you enjoy it while it lasts, Claudia… because I GAVE you your winning chance, but you're not making wise long-term decisions here. It's too bad."

Morgan and Delilah came back out, and Haleigh left Nicolas to intercept Morgan before she got out into the main assembly.

"Alright Morgan… I know you're upset… I am TOO.. But we can't let this get under our skin. Grin and Bear It… if only to show both Nicolas AND Claudia that they don't have any POWER over you… but ALSO to preserve your reputation and solidify your comeback."

She says, trying to convince her to present a united, unfettered front, despite everything.

They make their way back to the heart of the set, and Haleigh picks up on an outgoing phone call in an adjacent room:

"Yes, this is Alexandra Gray… I have some information about Morgan Victoria's work ethic.--"

Haleigh not only cut the connection on the phone, she shorted and disabled the device AND trapped the assistant in the room she had holed up in… where she would be forced to remain until Haleigh could deal with her.

"Alright people, it's show time, take your places."

 

[Spellbinder]

MAC campaign

<< Morgan walked with Delilah.>>

she's going to pay for this. i'll see to it!

<< Claudia had mentioned SHARON and boasted how resilient she was despite the efforts of "better women" than her. OBVIOUSLY there was more to this woman than met the eye, but WHAT? Of COURSE Morgan would NOW have to call on her years of experience , her professionalism, which Claudia and Nicolas were now testing.>>

Delilah....

<< she stopped for a moment.>>

I can't believe she did this! I can't believe HE went along with it! Why doesnt anybody BELIEVE ME when i tell them that he's STALKING ME!

<< referring to the recent events where she was menaced and attacked by that "figure"...."THE SHAPE" both in the nightmare and in reality!>>

WHY ELSE would he be here NOW!

<< thankfully the sound stage was LARGE enough that where they were standing was not anywhere near anyone to hear them. Morgan took a moment to compose herself. the walked on a bit further and Haleigh met them. the hybrid could see that Morgan was still upset and to Morgan's surprise, HALEIGH was rather upset as well. >>

Delilah said Alison was here...where is she?

<< wondering why one of her best friends wouldnt be here now of all times.>>

"Alright Morgan… I know you're upset… I am TOO.. But we can't let this get under our skin. Grin and Bear It… if only to show both Nicolas AND Claudia that they don't have any POWER over you… but ALSO to preserve your reputation and solidify your comeback."

<< Morgan HEARD Haleigh....but at that SAME MOMENT...>>

Barbas: Yes...delay the inevitable psychotic breakdown they are hoping for. itll make your rape, degredation and DEATH at Nicolas' hands later all the more shocking...and just think...you'll go from being the world's most famous "signature super model" to being the world's most famous "Signature VICTIM".

<< Morgan shut her eyes tightly, the voice....THAT VOICE...would it EVER GO AWAY!?>>

...

<< finally, she opened her eyes again looking at Haleigh and Delilah.>>


My FRIENDS at MAC agreed to let Affinity represent their interests in the advertising market...I can't fall back NOW.


But ...she can't get away with this.

<< with reassurance from Delilah and Haleigh, Morgan walks forward and is met by her traveling make up team. she seems to be ready to work but despite Haleigh's urging for everyone to get moving, everyone around is off to an awkward start.>>

People....

<< Morgan says in an icy voice.>>

This is the FASHION INDUSTRY! Catfights, tantrums and drama are as much apart of the process as hair, make up...and << looking at Claudia.>> FAKE BREASTS.

<< and at that very moment...as if couldnt get any BETTER...a SPOTLIGHT beams down on CLAUDIA courtesy of DELILAH, who does not show ANY OUTWARD movement, so as not to draw any attention to her being the one to have done it so that EVERYONE's attention is drawn toward Claudia at that moment causing more whispers on the set and a few laughs at Morgan's light hearted, yet BITCHY remark. It would see that Morgan had become more BOLD than anything else. the spotlight flickers off, making it seem like a light fixture had randomly malfunctioned. >>

We're all here to accomplish a goal, so Let's get some work done!

<< she says, smiling to the models and encouraging them. then turning to Nicolas, her smile FADES as the director motions for them to take center stage on the set. standing close to him, as lights are moved and last minute preparations are made for the first round of shooting.>>

<< she says this only so that he can hear it.>>

you watch those hands...you stalking monster!

<< unknown to Morgan and Claudia , HALEIGH is running much needed interference...trapping a wet rag of an intern in a room where she was trying to alert the tabloids about the drama that had unfolded today, which was all CLaudia's doing.>>

<< the first round of shooting for the "Red she said" campaign was beginning. there would be several more rounds befrore the first break....and the commercial filming. a good portion of the day would pass before Morgan was done and so Haleigh and rest of the team would be there for a while. >>

<< Morgan was a veteran, under the hot lights, and the direction of the director she set the tone for the other models who were once again following her lead as they did their part. Claudia may have thrown one hell of a curve ball, but she couldnt stop TRUE talent and experience. Nor could Nicolas...whom Morgan loathed and despised. the moment she dread was coming though...the moment where the "SEXY" photos and the KISSING shots/scenes were tp take place to proove the longevity of the MAC "red she said" lip stick >>