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‘It was just like her.’ On impulse, Mavis took out a tube and removed her lip dye. She studied her naked mouth a moment, then chose a container of Berry Crush. ‘She knew Jerry wouldn’t play second lead, not to her, even though there was a lot of good buzz about the designs. So asking her was a kind of dig, you know. She could say yes, and take the backseat, or say no and miss being in one of the hottest shows of the season.’
‘And she said no.’
‘Made out like she had previous commitments. Saving face. But the minute Pandora was out of the picture, she called Leonardo and offered to fill in.’
‘How much will she make?’
‘For the show? She’ll get about a mil, but that’s nothing. The headliner gets to pick her fashions at a wholesaler’s discount, an endorsement fee for each wearing. Then there’s the media clause.’
‘Which is?’
‘Well, the big models get it to go on the fashion channels, the talk channels and all that. They get to pump up the designs and get paid for the appearances. Exposure and big bucks for the next six months, with an option to renew. She could rake in five, six mil plus bennies from this one appearance.’
‘Nice work if you can get it. She profits in excess of six million from Pandora’s death.’
‘You could look at it that way. It’s not as if she was hurting before, Dallas.’
‘Maybe not. But she sure as hell isn’t hurting now. She’ll put in an appearance at this postshowing party?’
‘Sure. She and Leonardo are the stars. We’d better get out there if we want any food. Those fashion critics are like hyenas. They don’t even leave bones.’
‘You’ve been around Jerry and the others for a while now,’ Eve began as they made their way back to the ballroom. ‘Anybody using?’
‘Jesus, Dallas.’ Uncomfortable, Mavis shrugged. ‘I’m not a weasel.’
‘Mavis.’ Eve tugged her into an alcove resplendent with potted ferns. ‘Don’t take that line with me. Is anyone using?’
‘Hell, sure, there’s some shit around. Poppers mostly, and a lot of Zero Appetite. It’s a tough business, and not all the low-tier models can afford body sculpting. You’ve got a few illegals filtered through, but it’s mostly over the counter.’
‘Jerry?’
?
?She’s into health shit. That drink she guzzles. She smokes a little, but it’s some special blend for soothing nerves. I’ve never seen her use anything dicey. But . . .’
‘But?’
‘Well, she’s real territorial about her stuff, you know? Couple of days ago one of the other girls wasn’t feeling well. Dragging from a late night. She started to cop a taste of Jerry’s blue juice, and Jerry went nuts. Wanted to have her fired.’
‘Interesting. Wonder what’s in it.’
‘Some vegetable extract. She claims it’s made up for her metabolism. She made some noise about going on the market with it, endorsing.’
‘I need a sample. I haven’t got enough for a search or confiscation warrant.’ She paused, considered, smiled. ‘But I think I know how to fix that. Let’s go party.’
‘What are you going to do? Dallas.’ Doubling her pace, Mavis caught up with Eve’s long strides. ‘I don’t like that look in your eye. Don’t cause any trouble. Please, come on. It’s Leonardo’s big night.’
‘I bet a little more media coverage will increase his sales.’
She stepped into the ballroom where the crowd was gyrating on the dance floor or huddled around the tables of food. Spotting Jerry, Eve started over. Roarke caught her eye and crossed to her.
‘Suddenly you look like a cop.’
‘Thanks.’
‘I’m not sure it was a compliment. Are you about to cause a scene?’
‘I’m going to do my best. Want to keep your distance?’
