ch 16 - 20

Chapter 16: Actually, I Am God

*I still believe

that you will be here

and give me a sign

hit me baby one more time*

"Luca, it's your turn!"

The staff on-site called out, snapping Luca back into focus. His eyes sharpened, his posture straightened, and his shoulders squared as his arms hung naturally by his sides.

When the bearded Ben Hill arrived, Luca strode confidently toward the exhibition hall.

Today's fashion show was on the first floor of an art museum, in a palatial hall.

The seating was arranged in a square "回" shape, with the audience seated in both inner and outer rows.

The models needed to make a circuit around the center aisle, entering from the left and exiting from the right. The middle aisle spanned about 200 meters, requiring 220 steps, and a full lap took three minutes.

Luca entered from the right, dressed in a Zhongshan-style suit. He slowly walked onto the center aisle.

Boom, boom, boom—  

His steps matched the rhythm of the music, steady and confident.

The audience sized him up, along with his clothes. He had a handsome face, with deep brown hair, fair skin, and blue-black eyes. His features were chiseled and striking, exuding an air of elegant allure.

Tall and well-built, with broad shoulders and a narrow waist, the outfit highlighted his sharp, handsome demeanor, blending sophistication and grace.

"Oh, what a fine young man."

"Is this model a newcomer? Very impressive!"

"Mia, I want to go on a date with him."

Many whispered among themselves.

Among them were brand representatives, designers, magazine editors, or just spectators who came to see the beautiful models.

They judged Luca from different perspectives: fashion style, runway walk, appearance, aura, modeling agency, and even his measurements.

One photographer focused his lens on Luca's face.

Luca's facial structure was well-defined, almost artistic. From behind the lens, his features appeared even more captivating.

If he could, the photographer would love to do a full photo shoot of him.

Click—  

The photographer snapped a shot of Luca.

Suddenly, he noticed a small detail—this new model frowned slightly when turning, a flash of unnatural pain crossing his face.

But it was fleeting. He quickly returned to normal.

The photographer frowned. As expected of a newcomer, they can't avoid unexpected situations.

Boom, boom, boom—  

The 300-meter runway required Luca to take over 430 steps. By the latter half, his steps grew heavier, but his body remained steady.

Finally, he gritted his teeth and walked off into the left exit.

As soon as he returned to the changing room, he stumbled and crashed into several clothing racks.

Clatter—  

A chaotic noise erupted.

Sweat poured from his forehead, seeping out of every pore.

He groaned and slowly lay down on the floor to ease the pressure on his spine.

When he had made the pivot turn at the front end, he heard a crack, and a wave of intense pain shot from his spine to his nervous system, nearly overwhelming him.

He had fought through it the entire time, but now he couldn't hold back any longer. Curling up on the floor, he trembled slightly.

"Luca, get ready!"

His temporary assistant urged impatiently.

The temporary assistant was named John, assigned by the event organizer—a white man in his thirties with messy hair.

Luca looked up, opened his mouth, wanting to say he was quitting, but the words came out hoarse:

"I'll be right there!"

John noticed his face was excessively pale, drenched in sweat and tears. He smirked. This guy must be going through withdrawal. He's seen it all after working at fashion shows for years.

John's eyes gleamed as he pulled a small packet of powder from his pocket and squatted down with a grin. "Two hundred dollars. Want some?"

Painkillers?

Luca's eyes lit up. Painkillers could ease the pain. He had often used them in the past. Maybe just one last time?

Slowly, he reached out.

John sneered, showing disdain. These models, looking all tall, handsome, and glamorous, are often addicts, weirdos, or worse. Luca seemed healthy and sunny on the surface, but he turned out to be just like the others.

"Luca, take it. You need this, hehe~."

John said softly, but just as he thought he was about to close another deal, Luca withdrew his hand as if it had been burned.

"What's the matter? Two hundred dollars isn't much!"

"I... I don't need it," Luca gritted his teeth and shook his head stiffly.

He couldn't touch it!

Absolutely no drugs!

His predecessor had a drug problem.

He had held on for more than a month to slowly improve.

If he found an excuse to indulge today, it would become countless times in the future. If he kept giving in, he couldn't imagine what kind of person he would become.

He could give up modeling, but he would never touch drugs again.

"Hmph!"

John, missing a chance to make some extra cash, stood up irritably and said coldly, "Then hurry up. If you break the performance contract, it'll cost more than two hundred dollars."

"I know!"

Luca wiped the sweat from his face, propping himself up on the ground. Awkwardly, he stood, his white teeth unknowingly stained with blood.

"Luca, now it's three hundred dollars. Want it?"

John looked at him with a mocking gaze. Quitting drugs? He'd seen plenty try, but how many actually succeeded?

"I don't need it!"

Luca held onto the clothing rack, moving slowly.

"Now it's five hundred."

John chuckled. He was sure Luca would give up on this unnecessary persistence.

Suddenly, Luca stopped and turned to look at him, his black eyes piercing like lightning.

John involuntarily took half a step back. "What do you want to do?"

"Heh~."

Luca bared his blood-stained teeth, his voice hoarse. "You know what? I am God!"

John stood in place, stunned as he watched Luca's tall, stubborn, and strong back, like a towering mountain.

"Did he say he's God?"

John believed him for a second, then laughed at himself. "Hah! You're crazy!"

Soon, the second show began.

Luca changed into the second outfit: a denim jacket, unbuttoned, exposing his muscular torso, exuding a sense of wildness. Tight jeans clung to his legs, sparkling with metal embellishments.

On stage, with lively music playing, he endured the pain, striding with the proudest steps. The breeze caressed his chest and abs as the crowd watched and judged him.

"Hmm, this new face is intriguing!"

"He looks stunning!"

"I see a supermodel aura in him."

Listening to the soft murmurs of admiration, Luca bit down on his lip, swallowing a mouthful of blood.

To outsiders, he seemed glamorous in his fashion, but who knew the pain he was enduring?

A man has to be tough on himself, right?

Luca forced a smile. Another lap, over 440 steps this time, slower and with more effort.

Back in the changing area, he ignored the looks, took off his clothes, and lay on the cold floor.

The icy surface soothed his burning skin, easing the pain.

Clack, clack—  

A pair of hard leather shoes approached. John crouched down again, producing the small bag with a grin.

"God, want it? One thousand dollars!"

Luca stared at him quietly, then suddenly smiled.

"You know, there's a legend that God endured countless trials and temptations before becoming divine. Are you the devil trying to stop me from becoming God?"

John chuckled. "Heaven is gone. Where are you going to be God now?"

Luca shook his head slightly. "Who says Heaven is gone? Wherever I am, Heaven is there."

Seeing the dazzling light in his deep black eyes, John hesitated momentarily before snorting, "I think what you need isn't this, but a psychiatrist."

Luca smiled faintly and stood up slowly.

"Come on, help me change."

He straightened his back, spreading his arms like an emperor awaiting his robe.

"Hmph, we'll see how long you last."

John put the small packet away, disappointed.

(End of the chapter)

*Chapter 17: Fainting*

"Look, that handsome model is on stage again!"

At the exhibition, Ed and a few agents from the same company stood at the periphery, watching the models' performances on stage.

As Luca stepped onto the runway for the third time, someone in the audience whispered.

The agents stopped talking and simultaneously turned their attention to Luca.

In fact, they had already noticed this extraordinarily handsome model when he first appeared.

His facial features were sharply defined, and his tailored suit clung to his athletic physique as if it had been made just for him, making him appear even more energetic and striking.

The second time, he walked out wearing a denim outfit.

On him, people sensed an indomitable will, a strong resilience, and a tenacious spirit, exuding the true essence of a cowboy.

Once again, he captured the full attention of the audience.

If this were an exam, he would have already scored two A+'s.

Now he was back on stage.

To the sound of music, he strode from the back of the stage to the front, dressed in a silver trench coat.

Like the other models, his performance was highly professional, his face calm, but his deep-set eyes seemed to carry a powerful intensity.

As he walked briskly on the runway, the breeze tousled his long hair and coat. He looked like a general draped in a battle robe, marching forward with great momentum.

Once again, everyone was stunned by his aura.

The fashion industry's "Kaiser," Karl Lagerfeld, once said that charisma is precious. In the modeling industry, looks and body shape have limited influence; charisma is the cornerstone of a model's survival.

Charisma is a set of behavior norms based on social expectations, requiring intensive informal cultural training or the accumulation of life experiences.

It can manifest as avant-garde, futuristic, edgy, and so on.

Some people may look average or even unattractive, but if their charisma meets the standards of designers, agents, and luxury brands, they can become famous models or supermodels.

And Luca, a newcomer, already exuded a mature fashion charisma. Is he still a rookie?

"Ed, where did you find this new talent? Amazing!"

"Congratulations, Ed. You'll be a supermodel agent again soon."

Hearing his colleagues' congratulations, Ed grinned broadly, the wrinkles on his forehead smoothing out considerably.

Luca had only undergone training and guidance for a little over a month, yet his debut was surprisingly brilliant. What a surprise!

Ed was secretly delighted; he had indeed found the right person this time. Luca was a genius.

Ring~

His phone rang.

Ed answered it, and after listening for just a couple of sentences, his eyes gleamed with joy. "Mr. Frank, thank you for this opportunity. Luca will not disappoint you."

"Is it Mr. Joseph Frank?"

"Is Mr. Frank offering Luca a brand endorsement?"

The eyes of the agents around him lit up. Joseph Frank was the organizer of this fashion show and also an assistant designer to Giorgio Armani, the founder of the Armani brand.

Just as Ed was about to speak, his phone rang again.

He answered and listened briefly, his face filled with even more joy. "Mr. Marton, thank you for your appreciation. I'll bring Luca to visit you later."

"Mr. Marton?"

"Is that Mr. Marton from Details magazine?"

This time, everyone was a bit incredulous.

Details is one of the top three male fashion magazines in the United States. Every year, it introduces a new model in its pages, and without exception, those models become famous or even supermodels.

Could it be that Details magazine has chosen Luca this time? What a stroke of luck!

"It's just an opportunity to be shortlisted; nothing's been decided yet," Ed said modestly and left the venue.

The others watched his back, full of envy, jealousy, and resentment. Lucky Ed and lucky Luca.

Ed also felt that he was fortunate. Who would have thought he'd find such a promising talent like Luca just by casually browsing around?

Over the past month, Luca had performed admirably, whether it was working out, attending classes, acting, or training. No matter how tough it got, he never slacked off.

Ed often told his wife that Luca was a complex person. Though he appeared to be only twenty years old, he had a mature and steady soul. If he continued like this, success was inevitable.

He had expected Luca to succeed, but not this quickly.

As long as Luca first landed the Armani endorsement and seized the opportunity, he could quickly rise from a newcomer to a second-tier or even first-tier model.

Excitedly, Ed pumped his fist and briskly walked toward the backstage area.

"Luca, just inhale this. It will make you feel better and give you the strength to participate in the closing show."

As he arrived backstage, he saw Luca sitting on the floor, head hanging motionlessly. A staff member squatted beside him, holding out a small bag and foil, speaking in a coaxing tone, "Luca, this one's free; I'll give it to you for free."

Ed's brows furrowed, and he shouted, "What are you doing?!"

The man turned around, startled, and shrugged, "Nothing. He's about to die, and I'm trying to save him."

"What?!"

Ed was shocked. He quickly squatted down and grabbed Luca by the shoulders. "Luca, Luca, what's wrong?"

Luca slowly raised his head, his face pale, beads of sweat dripping from his nose and chin, and blood smeared at the corner of his mouth.

Ed's heart sank. "Luca, what happened?"

"Ed!" Luca's voice was weak and hoarse. "Has the closing show started?"

"Forget the damn closing show! What's wrong with you?" Ed asked anxiously.

"Ed, I don't think I can make it to the closing show. Will it cost a lot of money?" Luca grinned, his blood-stained teeth showing.

"No, Luca, you've already made it, you know? You've got the endorsement. I'm taking you to the hospital!" Ed said, his eyes red.

"Ed, don't tell Kate!"

"Ha! Kate, I just ran into Luca at the exit. He was standing there dazed, not responding even when I greeted him," said Lima in the female model dressing area. Lima and Kate were about to go on stage and were preparing in front of the mirror.

Kate pursed her vibrant red lips and smiled. "It's his first time on stage. Maybe he's nervous."

"Impossible. He's so brave. He's not afraid of death; why would he fear walking the runway?" Lima couldn't believe it.

Kate blinked her long lashes, a trace of doubt flashing in her eyes. "I don't know. Let's ask him when we get off stage."

"Sure. If he's nervous, I'll laugh at him," Lima said playfully.

The third show began.

After making a round on stage, Lima returned, puzzled. "I didn't see Luca."

"Neither did I," Kate said, frowning slightly.

"Did you hear? A male model fainted backstage just now."

"Yes, it seems like he had a drug relapse and was rushed to the hospital."

Suddenly, someone was whispering nearby.

Lima looked at Kate. She had heard about Luca's drug problem.

Kate shook her head. "Luca used to only smoke marijuana. For the past month, he's been working out daily and hasn't touched any of that stuff. It can't be Luca."

"Where did Luca go? Could he have chickened out?" Lima speculated.

Kate shook her head, her worry growing.

The closing show began, with all the models standing on the runway for three minutes, showcasing the fashion.

Kate and Lima stood on stage, scanning the male models' lineup, but Luca was nowhere to be found.

Kate's heart sank.

Backstage, she immediately took out her phone and called Luca, but there was no answer. She then called Ed, and after a long while, he finally picked up.

"Ed, how's Luca?"

"Luca is in the emergency room."

"The emergency room?!"

Kate's body went cold, and she collapsed to the floor.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 18: The Call to Battle

Evening, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York.

Ed paced back and forth outside the emergency room, his face heavy with worry.

During this latest product launch event, Luca had been nothing short of stunning, on par with the top supermodels. Not only did he leave a deep impression on the fashion industry insiders present, but he also caught the attention of big names like Frank and Martin.

Just when it seemed Luca was on the brink of a career resurgence, this happened.

Such a twist of fate!

"Ed, how's Luca?"

Kate rushed in, followed closely by Lima and Nina.

Ed sighed. "Luca's old injury flared up while he was rescuing someone. He endured the pain to complete the show without seeking immediate treatment, which made things worse."

"How did this happen?"

Kate choked up, covering her mouth. "Luca said he wasn't hurt at the time... Damn it! I should have dragged him to the hospital."

"Kate, don't worry. Luca will be okay."

Lima tried to comfort her, holding her shoulder.

Kate shook her head. "He shouldn't have tried to rescue anyone. He wasn't fully recovered yet, that idiot."

"Ed, Luca seemed fine during the show. How did it become so serious?"

Nina, who was also at the event, hadn't noticed anything wrong.

"Luca didn't look quite right the first time he came out. I thought he was just trying to portray a certain look, so I didn't pay much attention. Who knew... sigh."

"That idiot! It's just a fashion show; why did he have to push himself?"

Kate, overwhelmed with tension, guilt, and worry, slapped the wall and began to tear up.

"Kate, Luca is strong," Lima said, also feeling sad. She had been a little upset when Luca ignored her earlier, but thinking back, his pale face suggested he had likely been enduring pain.

"Ah..."

An hour later, the light in the emergency room went out, and a bearded doctor in a white coat walked out.

"Doctor, how is Luca?"

Kate hurriedly asked.

"The patient is stable, but due to the lack of timely care, the lumbar fracture worsened and led to a spinal displacement. He will need another surgery," the doctor explained patiently.

"Spinal displacement? Is the surgery complicated?"

Kate asked nervously.

"Spinal correction surgery isn't too complex,"

The doctor took out a piece of paper, sketched a simple diagram, and explained Luca's current condition and the corrective procedure to the group.

"Thank you, doctor!"

Kate breathed a sigh of relief. Thank God!

Whirr...

The sound of wheels echoed as two large, burly nurses pushed a gurney out.

"Luca, Luca, how are you?"

Kate called out twice, but seeing his eyes closed, she felt something choke up inside her, rendering her speechless.

"Luca, you idiot. Why did you have to play hero? Just wait till you wake up. I'll... I'll beat you up."

She stroked Luca's cheek as tears flowed from her eyes.

"Half-dead, okay?"

Suddenly, Luca opened one eye and pleaded.

Kate was stunned for a moment, then laughed through her tears.

"No way, I'm going to beat you up until you're really dead."

"Then I'll just go back to sleep!"

"Hahaha..."

Everyone burst into laughter.

The bearded doctor nearby also cracked a smile.

Earlier, before the surgery, the patient had requested a reduced dose of anesthesia to wake up sooner.

The doctor hadn't understood why the patient wanted to take such a risk at the time. Now he understood.

What a remarkable young man.

---

The next day, several New York media outlets covered the ARMANI Ready-to-Wear Fashion Show in great detail.

The reports provided an in-depth review of this season's Armani fashion show, covering everything from the designers and design styles to the models and the creativity behind the designs, and even the shortcomings.

Many newspapers published large photos of supermodels like Kelly Kate, Adriana Lima, and Eric Rutherford.

Amidst the photos of these supermodels was a new face, a breakout star from this fashion show—rookie model Luca Kelly.

The media's reviews of him were glowing.

"A Stunning New Face" – New York Daily News

"A Rising Supermodel Star" – New York Forum

"Best New Model of the Year" – Fashion Review

Some newspapers also revealed his connection with Kate, sparking further public interest.

Over the following week, New York's fashion magazines hit the shelves.

In their reviews of the ARMANI Ready-to-Wear Fashion Show, they frequently mentioned the new model Luca.

In this issue of Details, America's largest men's fashion magazine, editor-in-chief Martin wrote:

"In recent years, new faces in the modeling world have become increasingly rare. Few newcomers leave a lasting impression on the runway. At this season's ARMANI show, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a model with great potential, Luca Kelly. Today, he's twenty years old and a former member of Brazil's national soccer team reserves."

The magazine featured a photo of Luca in a Brazilian national team jersey.

"He's also the younger brother of up-and-coming supermodel Kate Kelly—a stunning sibling duo."

The article included a fashion shot of Kate as well.

"Luca's performance at this fashion show was astounding. There was a fierce intensity in his eyes, a depth that comes from a life well-lived. Though he's a newcomer, his runway presence was stable, matching even the top supermodels. Luca's style is versatile. He can carry off various outfits with different vibes, showcasing his potential as a model."

The magazine also featured photos of Luca on the runway: one in a Chinese-style suit, looking vibrant; another in denim, exuding a rebellious attitude; and a third, the most striking, showing an indomitable spirit.

Mr. Martin praised Luca highly, calling him the most promising new talent.

Meanwhile, a rumor was circulating in the fashion world.

According to the rumor, Frank, the design director of ARMANI's latest collection, greatly admired Luca.

On the day of the fashion show, Mr. Frank contacted Luca's agent, intending to offer him the endorsement for the latest denim collection.

Luca might become Armani's newest resident model.

"Wow, Luca has become a famous model?"

In a luxurious Tribeca apartment, Leonardo flipped through a magazine on the sofa, a slight smile curling at his lips.

"Leo, are you interested in Kate's useless brother?"

Bundchen lay in his arms, gently stroking his chest.

"He's just a small player. Why would I care about him?"

Leo casually tossed the magazine aside and leaned down to laugh softly. "My dear Gigi, I'm much more interested in you."

The room echoed with the call to battle.

"Hmph, a mere rookie model dreaming of an Armani endorsement?"

In a modeling agency, a bearded handsome man glared at Luca's picture in the magazine and sneered. "James, I must get this endorsement. I mean it—no matter the cost."

"Don't worry, Ben. This endorsement will be yours."

The fashion world was rife with tension.

No matter what was happening outside, Luca had no energy to care.

During these days, he underwent two lumbar recovery surgeries in the hospital, both successful.

The attending doctor said that with some time to recuperate, his old injury could heal by seventy to eighty percent.

However, to achieve full recovery, he had to avoid intense physical activity in the coming months. If the fracture site were to sustain more damage, he might spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

He tentatively asked what activities qualified as "intense."

The doctor gave him a meaningful smile.

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 19: Confessing to Adriana Lima*

*Morning, Mount Sinai Hospital, private room.* Golden sunlight poured through the window, casting warm reflections across the bed.

Luca lay on the bed, his white hospital gown slightly lifted as a doctor in his thirties performed a routine check-up on him.

"Luca, you’re recovering well. Just remember, no intense physical activity for the next six months," the attending physician reminded him after completing the examination.

"I know, Joel. Thank you!" Luca replied, turning over slowly with a sigh of relief.

"Get some rest!" The doctor closed his chart and started to leave. At the door, he paused, glancing at Kate, who was helping Luca adjust his clothing. Hesitantly, he asked, "Kate, are you free this weekend?"

"Oh, Joel, is there something you need?" Kate straightened up, brushing a strand of golden hair behind her ear.

"Uh, well, I have two tickets to Catch Me If You Can. Would you like to join me?" Joel asked.

"Catch Me If You Can?" Kate furrowed her brows slightly. "Sorry, Joel, but I’m not a fan of Leonardo's movies."

"Uh… that's a shame," Joel muttered, scratching his messy hair as he left the room, visibly disappointed.

Luca chuckled slightly. If Joel wanted to win over Kate, he should have done his homework first.

"What are you laughing at? Do you still want to play the superhero?" Kate asked as she helped Luca sit up.

"Yes, I'll be your superhero from now on and protect you forever," Luca said, holding her hand.

Kate hadn't expected that response. A smile crept onto her lips before she quickly composed herself. "You talk sweet, but why don't you say those things to Lima? You could win her over with such words!"

Luca felt a bit helpless. These days, Kate had been trying to set him up with Lima. Adriana Lima was a supermodel, fresh on the scene, but already worth a couple of million dollars. He wasn’t planning to win her over with empty promises.

Though he had no idea what Lima was thinking, she didn't seem to mind that he had injured his back. She visited him daily without fail.

"Lima's great, but she's too… well, let’s say she's quite attractive. Joel said I can’t do any strenuous activities," Luca said, shrugging helplessly.

"Strenuous activities?" Kate paused for a moment before bursting into laughter, finally catching his drift.

"If Lima heard that, she'd kill you!" she laughed.

"Heard what?" Adriana Lima entered the room, her long, toned legs striding in. She wore a fitted, low-cut knit top paired with a sleek pair of long pants that accentuated her curves. In her hands, she held a long, stick-like object wrapped in packaging, making it impossible to tell what it was.

"Hi, Lima. Luca said you’re very… uh, attractive," Kate teased with a smile.

"Really?" Lima glanced at Luca, curiosity in her eyes. "Why would I hit him if he complimented me?"

"Nothing, Lima," Luca quickly interjected before Kate could reveal more. "What's that you're holding?"

"This?" Lima waved the stick in her hand. "It's a baseball bat. I heard you were talking about me, so I came prepared. Now, tell me, what were you saying?" She raised the bat playfully, pretending to aim at his head.

"No, no, I wasn’t saying anything bad about you!" Luca signaled Kate with his eyes for help.

Kate sat back on the sofa, crossing her long legs and watching the scene unfold with a grin.

Sighing, Luca confessed, "Alright, I'll tell you. Kate was just asking me if I like you."

"What?" Lima was momentarily stunned, glancing at Kate.

"Yep, that’s exactly what I asked him," Kate confirmed with a mischievous grin.

"And what did you say?" Lima asked, eyes fixed on Luca. The bat still hovered above his head as if the wrong answer would warrant a whack.

"I said I like you," Luca said sincerely.

"You like me?" Lima asked again, seemingly in disbelief.

"Yes, Lima, I like you," Luca reiterated, looking into her eyes. "You have a cheerful personality, you're warm to your friends, you work hard, and you’re beautiful. I've liked you for a long time."

Lima looked down, a blush spreading across her honey-colored cheeks. Over the time they'd spent together, she had noticed how Luca had changed. He had become more attractive, more manly, warm, and even funny. She had seen his brave act in front of the Lincoln Center and felt safe and secure around him.

She crossed her long, slender legs slightly and murmured, "Am I really that good?"

"Of course. You have so many good qualities. You have great habits, you're sincere, and you take good care of people," Luca said, praising her earnestly.

Kate covered her mouth, barely containing her laughter. She kept signaling to Luca with her eyes to keep going.

"But if you like me, why would I hit you?" Lima asked softly.

"Kate asked me why I wasn't pursuing you if I liked you," Luca explained.

"Yeah, why not?" Lima was curious, and even Kate had stopped laughing to hear his response.

"I said you’re too strong-willed. If I pursued you, you'd probably hit me with a bat," Luca joked.

"I wouldn't! Why would I hit you… uh…" Lima quickly tried to wave off the notion, but the bat in her hand accidentally fell onto his leg.

"Hahaha!" Kate burst into laughter, unable to control herself.

Lima quickly picked up the bat, hurriedly explaining, "Luca, don’t worry. This isn't a baseball bat. It’s a cane I bought for you, not a weapon. I wouldn’t hit you."

She removed the packaging, revealing a dark red cane. It had a rounded top, was as thick as a child's arm, and was intricately carved with fine details.

"Do you like it? I spent a long time picking it out," Lima asked expectantly.

"It’s a beautiful cane. I like it very much," Luca said. In truth, he didn't like the idea of using a cane; it made him feel old or weak. But it was a thoughtful gift from Lima, so he accepted it with a smile.

"So, Luca and Lima, when are you two planning to start dating?" Kate teased.

Lima looked at Luca expectantly.

Luca was momentarily stunned. Did his confession actually work?

He had been joking before. Lima was a supermodel. He never thought she would be interested in dating a jobless man with a back injury.

With a smile, Luca held the cane and said, "Lima, you might have to wait a little longer until I can walk with this cane and take you for a stroll."

"I'd love to go on a walk with you!" Lima smiled, leaning down to kiss his cheek.

"Wow, today is such a beautiful day," Kate stretched lazily in the sunlight.

Luca and Lima both smiled softly.

"Luca, we have a problem!" Suddenly, Ed rushed into the room, several newspapers in hand. His frown was deep, and his graying hair seemed more noticeable.

"Ed, what's going on?" Luca asked.

"There's a rumor going around that you were using drugs backstage during the fashion show," Ed said urgently.

"What?!"

Chapter 20: Is There Still a Chance?

*"Best New Model? No, He's Just a Junkie."*

Yesterday, while many fashion magazines and newspapers were still abuzz about Luca, The New York American suddenly released a very different story.

The New York American is the most famous tabloid in the U.S., formerly known as The New York News.

Its editorial policy is to spare no expense in obtaining firsthand news, often using sensational images to grab readers' attention. It loves to report on celebrity gossip, scandals, and divorce cases.

This newspaper is arguably one of the most shameless in the country.

This time, in the entertainment section, The New York American reported on the new "supermodel" Luca, using a contrarian approach to capture readers' interest.

As usual, The New York American used a lot of images to back up its story.

*Image 1:* Luca squatting in a corner, face pale, gritting his teeth, looking grim.

*Caption:* Luca experiencing withdrawal symptoms right before going on stage, preparing to take a drug pill.

*Image 3:* Luca standing energetically on the runway.

*Caption:* Luca forcing himself on stage after taking the drug pill.

*Image 7:* Luca lying naked on the cold floor to relieve his pain.

*Caption:* After completing his second show, Luca took another drug pill, but overdosed and collapsed on the floor, unconscious.

*Image 9:* Luca being carried to a vehicle on a stretcher by Ed and others.

*Caption:* Luca fell into a coma after taking too many drug pills and was taken away by ambulance.

The newspaper used nine images to "prove" that Luca was taking drugs, portraying him as a problematic model.

While the modeling industry does have its share of issues—drug use, promiscuity, suicide, HIV—on the surface, at least, it presents a glamorous and polished image.

A problematic model has no future because very few brands want a troubled model representing their products.

And this report confirmed that Luca was an unhealthy model.

At the end of the article, The New York American mocked, "Is the fashion industry really in such dire need of talent? Why are so many media outlets simultaneously promoting an obscure new model?

Is it for PR fees?

Oh, come on, folks, you can't do that. As journalists, our reporting must be objective, fair, and truthful. We can't just blindly hype up a newcomer and claim he's on par with veteran supermodels.

Oh, maybe you're right. That just means the quality of supermodels has declined.

Mr. Marton from Details, you said Luca has a 'raw energy' about him. I think that's just the result of his drug use. You said he's the most promising new model of the year? I think your expectations have already fallen flat.

Oh, and Mr. Frank from Armani, I heard you're considering Luca for your new denim ad. Are you sure about that?!"

"F**k!"

Kate furiously threw the newspaper to the ground. Seeing the painful images of Luca on the paper made her heart ache, yet the newspaper slandered Luca for drug use.

"F*k, f*k, I'm going to sue them until they're bankrupt!"

"Kate, calm down. Drug use in the fashion world is not uncommon, and Luca didn't actually use any. We can explain."

Lima tried to calm her down.

"No, some things can't be explained away."

Kate shook her head. In the modeling industry, drug use might be brushed off, but once it's brought to the forefront, it's a big deal.

For a newcomer to face such news right as they're starting out is like pouring boiling water on a young sapling.

Luca also felt a bit helpless after reading the report. Several newspapers and magazines had covered his performance at the Armani fashion show over the past few days. Some genuinely believed he performed well, while others were the result of PR efforts by Ed and Kate. They used their company's network to promote him, turning him into a famous model.

And it was working.

Unfortunately, just as success was within reach, someone came along to muddy the waters with a swift and brutal move, catching everyone off guard.

If this issue isn't clarified, Luca's path in the fashion industry would be cut short. But even if they explain it, what good will it do?

Right now, Armani is selecting models for its denim fashion ad.

If he misses this chance, the next opportunity will be far off.

"Kate, don't worry just yet,"

Luca said, holding Kate's hand to calm her. "Ed, what do you think we should do?"

Ed was an experienced agent. He shouldn't lose his composure in crisis management.

After pondering for a moment, Ed spoke slowly, "First, these photos were taken by backstage staff, most likely your temporary assistant, John."

Luca nodded; there were partitions in the dressing areas, and John was the only one present at the time.

"According to the rules, staff members are not allowed to take photos backstage, let alone sell photos of the models. John broke the rules, and the organizers also bear some responsibility. We can ask the organizers for help with the investigation. If necessary, we can sue John and The New York American."

Ed spoke steadily.

"No, the litigation process is too long. We're Brazilians, and regardless of the lawsuit's outcome, Luca will miss the chance to be the face of Armani."

Kate shook her head, disagreeing with this approach.

Ed sighed. "Kate, Frank's assistant already called. Luca has lost this opportunity."

"What?!"

Kate was furious. "How could this happen!"

"Kate, don't get upset. I'm just a newcomer. I never expected to become a supermodel overnight or to land this endorsement. It wasn't mine to begin with, so losing it doesn't mean much."

Luca initially hadn't planned to be a model. He aimed to be an actor, writing scripts and novels on the side. Modeling was just a way to make some pocket money. He never anticipated this series of events.

Everything happened so quickly; it was dizzying.

"Luca, you shouldn't think like that. You pushed through the pain to complete three shows and performed brilliantly, earning recognition and praise. This endorsement is rightfully yours."

Kate said firmly, her eyes like sharp swords.

In her career, she always aimed to perform her best, to seize every opportunity. She would never hand over benefits that were rightfully hers.

Luca didn't want to argue with her, so he asked again, "Ed, is there any way to salvage this?"

"There is! The day you got injured saving someone on the street, if we can find a few eyewitnesses and surveillance footage to prove you saved a life, then there won't be any problem."

"That's right!"

Kate exclaimed excitedly. "If we can find these two things, or the baby's parents, not only can we turn the tables, but we can also make Luca a city hero."

Lima agreed. "Luca, did you get the young mother's contact information?"

Luca shrugged helplessly. "I never thought this would happen, and I didn't expect any reward, so I didn't get her information."

"What a pity,"

Lima sighed.

"Luca, you're an idiot. Doing good deeds without expecting anything in return—what do you think you are, Superman? You're dumber than a three-toed sloth!"

Kate scolded him without hesitation.

Luca hung his head, not daring to argue. In his previous life, he was taught that doing good deeds without expecting anything in return was virtuous, so he hadn't even asked for the woman's name.

Kate rubbed her forehead. "Ed, is there surveillance on the street in front of Hearst Plaza?"

"I'll go check!"

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