Chapter 7-Cousin

THIRD P. O. V

"How's life been treating you, cuz?" Julia asked as she sat on the couch. 

Malia took a seat next to Julia, trying to think of something to say. She didn't know much about Bianca's personal life, but she knew she had to keep up the act. 

"It's been good, Julia. Just busy with work and stuff. 

Julia nodded enthusiastically, "I know the feeling! I've been swamped with my own projects lately. But hey, speaking of work, I heard you're working with that new designer, Marco? "

Malia's eyes widened because she didn't know who's she talking about. "Marco? Sorry, I couldn't remember right now." Malia didn't want to give herself away so she played it safe. 

"It's Marco Rossi, duh!" Julia leaned in."I've heard he's a great photographer." 

Malia was unsure of what to say so she started to feel like she was in over her head. She just tried to deflect the question but Julia was relentless. 

Malia noticed that Julia was being unusually talkative, sharing stories and gossip that Malia didn't know anything about. She tried to play along, nodding and smiling, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that Julia was trying to trip her up. 

Malia started to feel overwhelmed as Julia suddenly stopped talking and looked at her with a concerned expression. "Hey, Bianca, are you okay? You seem a little spaced out." 

Malia was caught off guard, she quickly came up with an excuse, trying to cover her tracks. "Oh yeah, I'm fine. Just a little tired, that's all. I didn't get much sleep last night." 

Julia's expression turned sympathetic, "Aww, poor thing. You should take a nap or something, but before you do, can I ask you something?" 

"Sure, what is it?" 

Julia's smile was saccharine sweet, "I was just wondering, are you and Timothee still together?" 

Malia was confused about why she asked about it, and she knew there was nothing wrong between Bianca and Timothee, "Yeah, we're still together working through things, that's all." 

"Oh, that's great. I'm glad to hear that. I was worried about you after I saw him with some girls at the party last week." 

Malia's defenses went up. She knew Julia was trying to get a rise out of her but she refused to take the bait. "Come on, that was just a work thing. Timothee's a model director so it's normal for him to be seen with models." 

Julia's smile returned, but it was fake, and Malia could see right through it. "Yeah, I'm sure it is. But I've seen him with a few different girls lately, and I just want to make sure you're okay." 

Malia's anger was simmering just below the surface, she was trying to make her jealous, but she wouldn't fall for it because she's not Bianca." I appreciate your concern, cuz, but I think I can handle my own relationships. And besides, I'm a model too, remember? I'm used to seeing Timothee with other girls. It's just a part of the job." 

Julia's expression turned cold and Malia could see the dislike in her eyes, she realized that Bianca might not have liked her cousin very much and that was probably why Julia was being so pushy. 

Malia had been listening to Julia's stories for what felt like hours and her head was spinning. She had no idea how Bianca did it, pretending to be interested in Julia's endless tales of modeling and acting. 

"And then, I had to do a photoshoot for Vogue, and let me tell you, it was a nightmare. The photographer was so demanding and the clothes were just not flattering at all," Julia said, barely taking a breath. 

Malia nodded, again and again, trying to appear interested. Until, Mrs. Jenkins, the maid of the mansion called them down for dinner. 

"Finally," Malia was relieved and stood up and followed Julia downstairs. 

Malia's eyes widened to see the long dining table was laden with all sorts of delicious-looking dishes and it made her stomach growl. But her excitement was short-lived as she saw her parents, Amanda and Frederick, sitting at the head of the table. 

Malia felt awkward remembering the slap she received earlier that day. She then took a deep breath and tried to push the memory aside. 

"Julia, you look stunning! I'm glad you visit us." Amanda said. 

"Thanks, Auntie. I've missed you a lot." Julia replied. 

Malia sat down and couldn't help but think that none of them had any idea that the real Bianca wasn't present. They had no idea that she was a disguise.

"What's wrong, Bianca?" Julia asked, noticing Malia's distant expression. 

Malia shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts, "Nothing, just a little tired, that's all." she replied, trying to sound convincing. 

Amanda, smiled warmly at her, "Well, you must be starving, dear. Let's dig in."

As they began to eat, Malia couldn't help but feel like an imposter. She was surrounded by people who thought she was someone else, and it was a heavy burden to carry. 

Julia dominated the conversation and discussed the latest fashion trends and upcoming projects with Amanda. While Amanda turned to Malia. 

"Bianca, darling, are you ready to get back on the runway? You've been out for a while and your fans are clamoring for your return."

Malia's fork paused mud-air, she set it down and looked at her, "Actually, I've been thinking...my health matters, and I need to take a break for a while. I've been pushing myself too hard, and I don't want to burn out." 

Amanda's face fell, "What are you talking about? You're at the top of your game! You can't just take a break now. Your career will suffer." 

Malia's grip on her napkin tightened, "I'd rather take a step back and prioritize my well-being than risk my health for the sake of my career." 

Amanda's eyes narrowed, "You're not thinking clearly, Bianca. You need to get back out there and keep your momentum going." 

Malia stood her ground, trying to maintain her disguise, "I've made up my mind. My health comes first."

The tension at the table was palpable, and Malia wondered how much longer she could keep up the charade.