TESS
Edward K Norris
About the author
I am on my third book and coming to be recognised.
My writing is direct but intense, with detail only where demanded for understanding or illustration.
Economy of style seems to be gaining friends, and I present the story of TESS with growing assurance as she unfolds her up to the minute views.
Tess will surprise you. She is unpredictable, progressive and sexy, and makes no apologies for her behaviour which is, I have to admit, sometimes wayward sometimes dubious … She seems to nurse a little devil that drives her on wings to the stars, and Tess in action is something to behold.
But under it all she seems to be forever searching as she restlessly flits from man to man and man to woman.
Love her… Detest her… Has she a big secret??
Books by the same author
Like Father, Not Like Son - First published by Vanguard Press in 2008. Published as an E-Book by E-Books Publisher in 2011.
The Gay Solicitor - First published by Vanguard Press in 2006. Published as an E-Book by E-Books Publisher in 2011.
Smashwords Edition License Notes
This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.
© Copyright 2011
Edward K Norris
The right of Edward K Norris to be identified as author of
this work has been asserted by him/her in accordance with the
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
All Rights Reserved
No part of this document or the related files may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means (electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. or in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1956 (as amended).
Any person who does any unauthorised act in relation to
this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and
civil claims for damage.
Every effort has been made in the preparation of this book. The information provided herein is provided "as is." The publisher makes no representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the content of this book and expressly disclaims any implied warranties of marketability or fitness for any particular purpose and shall in no event be liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damage, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damages.
This book is licensed for your personal reading only. It is not permissible to copy, share or email this book to others. Please respect the copyright of the author.
ISBN - 978 1 78069 021 6
First Published 2010 in paperback by Vanguard Press
First Published as an e-book 2011
E-Books Publisher
6 Sedgeway Business Park
Witchford CB6 2HY
A modern woman.
The modern woman wishes to cast off centuries
of stifling tradition and behave with the freedom of a man, but still enjoy her femininity.
Such a woman is Tess.
Jeff Rowlands looked up as his secretary entered. “Yes Pat?”
There was a faint smile on her face that exasperated him. “I’ve a surprise for you,” she said softly. “There’s a girl to see you, no appointment, quite well spoken, but a real dazzler.”
“You know I don’t see girls without appointments.”
“I should see this one if I were you.” Pat was almost impertinent. Not her usual style.
Jeff was intrigued and gave her a long stare but she remained steady. “OK,” he said. “Show her in.”
As she entered he immediately saw what Pat had seen. The girl was simply beautiful, masses of fair hair, huge blue eyes.
He waved her to a chair. “Your name?”
“Tess. Well, almost.”
“Almost?” Jeff repeated.
“It’s really Tessa, but Tess is more me.” She spoke coolly and naturally.
Jeff’s blood began to tingle. Was this the someone special he was always looking for? And would the camera like her?
The big question.
Although he knew what her answer would be he asked, “What is your business with me?”
Her eyes didn’t waver. “I want to get into the photographic business. I wondered if you could help me?”
Jeff surveyed her again. That beauty was absolutely arresting but, although young, she was confident and had an air that intrigued him.
He fiddled with the papers on his desk. “Do you have a portfolio?”
“That’s why I’ve come to you,” she said.
“Do you realise it’s expensive to produce a portfolio?”
“Yes… I’ve no money now, but I’ll pay you when I get started.”
Jeff couldn’t let her go and he rose and led her into the studio and indicated a dressing room. “Pick out some costumes and come out when you’re ready.”
He went to his equipment and prepared his apparatus.
There was a swish as she threw back the dressing-room curtains and stood waiting in a dressing gown, as though he was the servant and she was the principal. Jeff barely hid a grin. If she got into the fashion industry she’d soon learn different.
He pointed. “Over there.”
She shed her dressing gown and Jeff had his first real look at her. Her figure was superb and her legs seemed to go on forever. High heels, tiny red bikini, minuscule white top, her fair hair cascading everywhere… He was quite excited now, and posed her several times. Then she changed and paraded in dresses, skirts, the whole works.
Finally he said, “That’s it! Get changed,” and waited for her in his office where he sat ruminating. It all depended on the pictures. He’d know tomorrow if he’d struck lucky.
Mentally Jeff was crossing his fingers.
She returned and sat in front of him.
“Are the pictures good?”
“I’ll tell you tomorrow,” Jeff said.
“Tell me,” he went on, “would you have any objection to nude studies?”
She didn’t hesitate. “No moral objection. I would decide at the time.”
“I suppose you realise,” Jeff said, “that the fashion industry is a hard business and no place for polite young ladies?”
“I can be polite, and I can be a bitch.” A small smile creased her face.
Jeff swallowed. No answer to that.
He picked up his pen. “Give me your address and number.”
She shook her head. “I am in a small hotel for the moment. I will call back to see you.”
“How old are you?” Jeff asked.
“Does it matter?”
Jeff’s patience was wearing thin and he raised his voice, “Stop pissing me around. I’m only asking you reasonable questions everyone will ask.”
“Over 18. Will that do?”
Jeff glared at her.
Then she laughed at him and, Christ knows why, Jeff found himself laughing as well.
He knew in that moment she was special and prayed to God the camera was going to like her.
He said slowly, “You are creating an aura of mystery, whether it’s deliberate or not I don’t know, but let’s kick this about tomorrow when we get the pictures.”
She rose and held out her hand. “I do appreciate your generosity Mr Rowlands believe me. I hope we will both be happier tomorrow.” Then she was gone.
Jeff pulled out all the stops and had her portfolio on his desk the next morning. He flipped through it, thought slowly, then picked up his telephone.
The operator said, “Claire Lewis Agency.”
“Give me Claire,” Jeff demanded, “Jeff Rowlands here.”
In a moment her pleasant voice came through, but Jeff knew how deceptive that was, she could be as hard as nails. The same with those large dark eyes of hers, totally disarming, but also misleading.
He dived straight in. “I don’t want you pissing me around Claire. I’ve got something that can make a lot of money for you, and I want a cut.”
Claire knew she could back Jeff’s judgement, but she wasn’t giving anything away. She said cautiously, “We can always talk… Spit it out.”
“I’ve got a young model, raw. I’ve just done her portfolio. She is absolutely top grade star quality, the camera loves her.”
“So you’ll give her to me for a kick back?”
“You’ve got it.”
“How much?”
“Top terms.”
“Could be a lot of money.”
“I’m counting on it,” Jeff retorted “How long since you’ve had a star on your books?”
Claire knew she couldn’t pass this opportunity up. “OK,” she said. “Come down and sign. If I like her it’s on.”
Jeff hung up in triumph and could hardly wait until Tess reappeared later that morning.
Pat had instructions to keep her waiting. Jeff didn’t want her to realise her value. Not until she’d signed.
After she’d waited fifteen minutes she said to Pat, “Do you know if my portfolio was OK?”
Pat kept a straight face. “Couldn’t say,” she said. “A lot pass through this office.”
Her line buzzed, and she said to Tess, “Go on in.”
She sat in front of Jeff once more and said almost breathlessly, “Have you got the portfolio?”
Jeff passed it over and her eyes widened.
“Why those are wonderful pictures,” she said. “I’m ever so grateful.”
“That’s only the beginning of the battle,” Jeff said. “There’s heaps of wonderful portfolios. The trick is to get the right agent.”
He could see her eyes fixed on him in serious concentration, and he waited, hoping his hint would be enough. It would strengthen his hand if he didn’t have to push.
It came off… “I’ve trusted you this far, could you help me further?” she asked
Jeff was elated but pretended to think. Finally he said. “Yes. The Claire Lewis Agency. You couldn’t do any better.”
“That is, if she’ll have you. I can’t guarantee that,” he said, “But it’s certainly worth a try.”
Things continued to work in Jeff’s favour and she asked, “Do you think you could have a word with her?”
He passed over Claire’s card. “You get off. I’ll do it now.”
She rose and asked hesitantly, “Why are you doing all this for me?”
Jeff knew this was an important moment and the answer had to be right.
“One.” he said. “I like you and think you will go far with the right help. Two. I will benefit with business from Claire, and,” he added, “maybe some business from a grateful model as well.” He laughed, and this time she laughed with him.
She leaned over and kissed him gently on the cheek. “Thank you Mr Rowlands. Wish me luck.”
She turned to leave but stopped in her tracks as Jeff shouted. He was smiling and holding up her portfolio. “Don’t you want your passport?”
She took it from his hands and said, “I think I owe you, and I don’t mean just the money… I won’t forget.”
This time she did leave.
Claire Lewis got the message from her reception. A girl called Tess to see her. She wondered idly if Jeff had gone overboard or if she was going to get lucky.
She came through the door and Claire took to her instantly but gave no sign.
Tess opened her mouth to speak but Claire forestalled her. “You’re the young lady Mr Rowlands sent?”
“That’s right.”
Claire held out her hand. “Portfolio?”
Tess passed it over. Claire swept through it and knew instantly Jeff was right. Star quality written all over the pictures. Christ! She mustn’t let this one slip.
“Yes,” she said. “Very nice. Have you any experience?”
“Not yet,” Tess replied. “I’m hoping.”
Despite her hard business instincts Claire liked her style, and knew others would.
She said cautiously, “I certainly agree with Mr Rowlands that you have promise, and I will sign you up, but bear in mind this is not a nine-to-five business and you will come up against all kinds of odd characters. Are you prepared for all the hard work and unsocial hours?”
Tess looked her in the eye and said, “Are you saying I have to sleep with some clients?”
Claire was dumbfounded. “I certainly am not saying that,” she said sharply. “But of course some relationships occur in the natural course of things. It would be surprising if this were not so, wouldn’t it?”
Tess wouldn’t let go. “I decide who I sleep with. Nobody else.”
Claire opened her arms. “Of course.”
“Tell me,” she continued, “would there be any assignments you would not consider?”
“You mean nude studies?”
“Possibly.”
“I would consider anything…but that doesn’t mean I would commit.”
Claire was making notes. “So can we put you down as available without reservations?”
Tess corrected her. “Available with reservations.”
Claire was a little nettled. Tess was in no position to bandy terms. Yet she knew she couldn’t deny her.
She focussed her dark eyes on Tess and held her gaze. “You have to realise Tess, that in an agency more work is offered to the girls without restrictions in their contracts. Clients simply don’t want to take chances.”
Tess found the older woman compelling but wouldn’t waver.
She said quietly, “I will survive on merit, or not at all.” She added with a smile, “Don’t think I’m against sex. I just want the choice.”
Claire saw she’d lost the battle. “Very well,” she said. “Supposing we say you are willing to consider or reject any booking?”
“Thank you,” Tess said.
She smiled and Claire was again struck with her extraordinary beauty. Heaven knows where she’s going to get, she thought.
She completed the paperwork and asked Tess for her address. As with Jeff she didn’t get it and received the same excuse.
Claire didn’t like this. She had the address of every artist and model on her books. “When will I get it?” she asked.
“When I do,” Tess replied. “Be sure I will always be around.”
Claire was not suspicious but she was peeved. “You haven’t told me anything of your background, education… Nothing!” she said.
“I left my background behind. You can judge my education,” she said.
Claire knew she’d lost again, but she wasn’t going to give in easily. At least she’d signed her, and she intended to have the last word. Set the right precedent.
“Don’t think,” she said, “because I’ve let you off some of our formalities you can behave as you like. No agency will put up with a rebel. It’s not worth the trouble. Not when there are so many more girls available.”
She swept her eyes across Tess. “Do I make myself clear?”
Tess said demurely, “Perfectly ma’am.”
Claire had a job to hold back a smile and when Tess left she sat back in her chair. I think we’ve a bundle of fireworks here, she mused. I wonder which way they’ll go?
Later in the day she rang Jeff.
“What an experience,” she said. “Like handling dynamite.”
“But think of the money that will roll in.”
“And yet you know,” Claire said, “I honestly liked her.”
“Me too,” Jeff said.
“The fashion world don’t know what’s coming!”
The next morning Tess arrived by 9 o’clock which impressed Claire.
“You’ve got your first assignment,” she said. “I’m putting you with Mandy and Liz for the John Jones Fashion Show. Think you can handle it, or would you like something smaller?”
Tess knew all about the John Jones shows. They were reported in the television news and she jumped at the chance. “Trust me,” she said. “I won’t let you down.”
“Just be guided by the other two,” Claire said. “They’ve done it all before.”
At that moment they walked in together, and it instantly clicked in Tess’s mind: two smart brunettes, and she was blonde. Cool thinking by Claire.
“I understand we’ve a newcomer,” Liz said, and looked inquiringly at Tess who obligingly nodded. “Yes, I’m the culprit,” she said.
“You’ll knock ’em cold,” Mandy said approvingly, and she went up to Tess and kissed her lightly on the cheek. Liz followed suit.
“This is a first for Tess,” Claire said, “so look out for her.”
Liz said softly, “Let me see, Des Lion runs the show up there doesn’t he?”
“He certainly does,” Mandy said. “He can be a bit rough but he always knows what he wants.”
“Is this a warning?” Tess asked.
Mandy smiled at her. “Just don’t argue if he wants to alter things, particularly at the last second. Otherwise he’s dead easy.”
Mandy’s words suddenly recalled to Claire how difficult Des could be and she hoped she wasn’t making a mistake in sending Tess. Ah well! It was too late now.
“Off you go,” she said. “Enjoy yourselves.”
On the journey Liz and Mandy explained a few things to Tess. They assumed she would be a little frightened, but in fact she was full of confidence and couldn’t wait for the challenge to begin.
They made for the dressing rooms on arrival and Liz clutched Tess’s arm and pointed. “That’s the big cheese, Des Lion.”
Tess saw a somewhat slight fair-haired man, who moved with a resolute purpose. “Doesn’t look very frightening,” she whispered.
“Don’t be fooled,” Liz said. “If he gets wound up look out.”
At that moment Des turned and caught Tess’s eye and came striding over.
“Don’t know you, do I?” he said.
Tess felt his eyes raking over her and wondered why the boss should be interested in a newcomer.
“She’s new,” Mandy said.
Des stood gazing at Tess with a faraway look in his eyes and was obviously considering something. Then he said, “Let me see, you’re Claire Lewis aren’t you?”
The three of them nodded. “Right!” he said. “Off you go.”
Tess had a quick glance back before they entered the dressing room and saw Des still staring at her, but he didn’t smile.
“What did you make of that Liz?” Mandy asked.
“Not a clue.”
Then she said to Tess suspiciously, “You’ve not met him before have you?”
“You joking?” Tess replied.
“Maybe we’ll find out. Maybe we won’t.” Mandy said.
Tess was then immersed in the preparations and was amazed at the changes she had to make. Underwear, dresses, skirts, tights… Items whipped on and taken off… Sometimes she stood nude.
Senior people stood by, viewing, making suggestions, occasionally a tuck or alteration… Sometimes Des himself interceded.
Suddenly he shouted, “Rehearsal one hour. All right everybody?”
Then he crooked his finger to Tess and she felt a faint excitement.
“I want you Tess,” he said. “Come with me.” Then he beckoned to two senior ladies, and they all marched off to a separate dressing room.
He opened a partition and pulled out a big cardboard box from which he scattered tissue right and left, then held up a shimmering silver costume.
“I’ve been waiting for the right person to wear this,” he said.
“Take off your clothes,” he said to Tess. “Everything.”
In a moment she stood nude and they all gazed at her, and she loved it.
“Put the dress on her,” he said. “No underwear.”
It took a few minutes, the dress was so flimsy, but it clung to Tess as if it was another skin. Des pressed his fingers on her nipples so they were obvious and stood back.
“What do you think?” he said. He was almost breathless.
“It almost looks as if she’s nothing on.”
Des cracked his fingers. “That’s it! It goes in the show. The climax. That’ll make a few of ’em think.”
“Thanks darling,” he said to Tess. “Now get back to rehearsals. This dress will not be included. Too flimsy.”
He held her arm for a moment. “You do want to do it, don’t you?”
“Wouldn’t miss it,” she replied firmly.
He squeezed her arm and made off with a smile.
“He seems to like you, Tess,” one of his ladies said.
“Must be my lucky day,” she said.
Then Liz and Mandy were on her. They were agog to know what had happened and Tess told them, but was careful to stress Des wanted a blonde.
Rehearsals swallowed up the rest of the time. It was full of interruptions and re-runs and when it eventually came to a close Tess was tired, but exhilarated. The show was the following day.
Only one thing bothered Tess. Liz and Mandy had shown her the approved model walk which she had learned in her training, each foot swinging behind the other, but Tess was not comfortable with it and wondered if she dare walk in her natural style.
She knew Des would never forgive her if she clobbered his big moment so she took a decision and tapped on his office door. It was quite late and a tired looking Des opened the door. His eyes opened in surprise.
“Could I have a quick word about my appearance in the dress?” she asked.
He stood back, pointed to a seat and waited.
Tess drew a breath. “I know how important the climax is tomorrow and I’m excited about it. But one thing troubles me. I don’t feel comfortable with the mannequin walk. Dare I walk naturally?”
Des put his hands to his eyes trying to visualize and there was a silence that seemed to go on forever. Then he said, “Come outside and walk up and down.”
Tess walked up and down with no word from Des until suddenly he said, “Slower.”
He held up his hand. “Enough!” he said. “You’ll be perfect tomorrow. It’ll hit ’em even harder.”
In the morning Tess could hardly contain her excitement. The others thought she was nervous but in fact she was cool and confident but did not disillusion them. She guessed they would label her a bighead, and she wanted their friendship.
She peeped through the curtains and saw the place was packed and buzzing.
Liz noticed and said, “Don’t worry Tess. Once you get out you’ll settle.”
“I hope you’re right,” she said. “My knees are jelly.” She was lying through her teeth, but Liz put her hand on her sympathetically and Tess gave her a grateful smile.
Liz said to Mandy before they went on, “Tess is dead nervy. Think she’ll be OK?”
“I’d bet on her,” Mandy said. “How could she miss?”
Then the lights flashed and the show was on.
It seemed to Tess like a mad frenzy and as she stepped on the catwalk for the first time she felt a rush of excitement that did not leave her the whole day. She was in the line several times but not as often as the more experienced. Crafty Des was saving her for the finale.
At last her big moment came. She was dressed and cosseted and positioned on a curtained-off dais. Des surveyed her, then thrust a hoop of sparkling stars in her hand. “Hold it over your head,” he commanded, and stood back.
“I like it!” he breathed. Then he cautioned. “Wait for the announcement and don’t move before you hear the music.”
There was a small lull then Tess heard the announcement. “Now I want you to feast your eyes on something special. The final dress is wicked – only for the few.”
The music started and the curtains swished back.
Tess put on her most dazzling smile and for a moment there was a stunned silence. Then the audience gasped.
Momentarily Tess held her pose but immediately she moved thunderous applause broke out. Her mass of fair hair caught the lights and the stars she held glittered. She seemed to be almost undressed, a silvery skin that was sensuous with every step she took. There was an insolent smile on her face as she slowly swung this way, that way, pausing, whirling, waiting… The applause never stopped, and when she finally stood back on the dais the curtains had to be reopened as an encore.
Minutes later Des led the whole team out to milk the applause and once more the curtains swung open to reveal a rapturous Tess, but she never lost control and didn’t move a muscle.
What a trouper! Des thought. Can’t believe this is her first show, and as the audience filed out excitedly talking and discussing he rushed round the back and caught up with Tess still in the silver costume. He hugged her delightedly and put a kiss on her lips.
“What a performance darling. Never seen anything better.”
Tess was over the moon. She’d loved the big moment and could hardly wait to see the television, but she retained her control. She knew the kiss from Des meant nothing and she wanted to retain his backing. She said generously, “It was the dress, Des. What an idea! Brought the house down.”
Liz and Mandy rushed up. “How did you do it?”
“Don’t really know,” Tess said hesitantly. “I tried to remember what you and Liz told me, then excitement took over… Was it good?”
“Good?” Liz repeated. “Only fucking marvellous. Claire will have a fit when she sees it on TV tonight.”
Mandy said shrewdly, “I don’t think there’s a lot we can teach you Tess… If anything.”
Tess put on an innocent face. “Do you really think so? I was scared stiff really. To tell you the truth,” and she leaned nearer to them, “last night I would have pulled out if you two hadn’t been there.”
Mandy’s brows shot up. She didn’t know whether to believe Tess or not, but Liz said sympathetically, “I understand,” and put her hand on Tess’s arm.
Tess was trying to build bridges. She persuaded them to have coffee with her, and afterwards at Liz’s suggestion they went to her flat to catch the news on TV.
Even Tess was stunned at the reception she received. The TV had made her their headline. The announcer opened with “Who is the silvery nude? Fashion show taken by storm.”
It was some time before the pictures came up and Tess had to admit she did look nude. Des had certainly pulled off a good trick.
Secretly she was delighted and knew she’d taken a big step forward, but she put her hands over her face and said, “I’m so embarrassed. I didn’t think I’d look naked.”
Liz touched her hand and said, “Tess, You’ve made a breakthrough. Thank your lucky stars.”
Mandy was cynical, “You wouldn’t turn down a nude contract for a million dollars would you Tess?”
“Would anyone?” she replied. But she made a mental note. Beware of Mandy.
In the morning Tess reported back to Claire and found her sitting in her office looking like the cat that had got the cream.
“My! You created a stir,” she said. “I’ve had Des on the line. He can’t sing your praises high enough.”
“How did you get that star spot?” she asked.
“Don’t know,” Tess replied promptly. “He just picked me. He came over and said I was just the person he’d been waiting for.”
“You can say that again,” Claire said. “You were a smash on TV, I nearly fell out of my seat.” She went on shrewdly, “What did Liz and Mandy have to say?”
“I told them I’d tried to remember their tips, but when the big event came excitement took over… I know,” Tess confessed, “that I didn’t do the mannequin walk.”
Claire studied her and couldn’t make up her mind. Was she as innocent as she looked? She just didn’t know.
“I don’t think you’ll ever have to bother with that again Tess,” she said. “You’ve set out your style and the public loved it. Now I want to talk to you seriously. This breakthrough alters your prospects completely. You’ll be in demand and it means you’ll be making a lot of money. What about an address? To us you’re a mystery. No background. No address. Not even a telephone number.”
“When I get established I’ll give you an address,” Tess said. She added with a laugh,” Maybe even a telephone number as well.”
“That’s it?” Claire asked.
“That’s it,” Tess replied firmly.
Claire decided not to push it. Tess was too valuable now, but she didn’t like it, and not for the first time she wondered what she might be hiding.
While her mind was still busy trying to work Tess out the telephone calls began to flood in. Everyone wanted the silvery nude, and she noted all the inquiries. But she didn’t fix an engagement. She was waiting for the big one… It came in the afternoon.
“David Warne on the line,” her receptionist said. Claire was excited. He was one of the big boys. His photographs went across the nation. Magazines, newspapers, fashion, TV. All the top models queued for him.
She picked up the telephone. “Claire Lewis here.”
“Hold the line. David Warne for you.”
She sniffed. She might have guessed he’d be too important to telephone personally.
“I’ve been looking at the pictures of the silvery nude,” he said. “I must confess she was a bit startling. Marian Haines wants her. Do you think you can arrange an early booking?”
Claire thought rapidly. Marian Haines was editor of the largest women’s magazine, and had her fingers in several others. Now was the time to chase up the price. She said cautiously, “We’ve been overwhelmed with inquiries. I couldn’t book her immediately.”
David Warne was not used to being put off and said testily, “It’s a big opportunity for her.”
Claire said smoothly, “Agreed, and she will be grateful, but she is abroad next week. Would the following week suit?”
David said. “Don’t fuck me about. Marian wants the pictures yesterday while the news is hot.” He went on sarcastically, “All right I know the game. You want the highest rates.”
Claire said gently, “We want that anyway.”
“Don’t make me an enemy Claire,” he said. “Do I get her next week or not?”
Claire knew she’d reached the edge and backtracked cautiously. “All right,” she said, “You’ve got her. I’ll find an excuse for the other party.”
“Have her here on Monday,” he demanded and hung up.
Tess turned up at David Warne’s studio on the Monday full of curiosity. She was entering the studio of one of the big time photographers. She gave her name to a receptionist and sat waiting with several other girls, obviously models.
She was kept waiting a long time, but at length she was taken to the studio, and was amazed at its size and the complexity of all the apparatus. In addition there were several people present, men and women.
One of the women came forward and extended her hand in a friendly way. “I’m Marian Haines,” she announced. “I hope you can do for us what you did for Des.”
Tess had been briefed, but knew who Marian Haines was anyway, and tried to make a good impression. “The camera smiles on me,” she said. “Just tell me what you want.”
Marian was slightly taken aback. She hadn’t expected such confidence from a newcomer and decided to reserve her judgement.
But by the end of the afternoon she was entirely captivated. Not only did Tess co-operate completely, she also made little suggestions which Marian saw instantly were right. “She’s a natural,” she decided.
Even David thawed out and warmed to her. He could see why she was in such demand, and at the end of the day sat talking with her and Marian over coffee. Now he rather regretted his sharp exchange with Claire over the telephone. “I suppose your boss must think I’m a sour old devil,” he remarked.
Tess, who knew all about the exchange, said, “On the contrary, she thought for a big time man you were quite patient.”
“Really!” David said. But he did wonder if Tess was telling the truth.
When the pictures came out they were dazzling and everyone was happy. Marian immediately telephoned Claire and asked for Tess’s telephone number.
“No idea,” Claire responded.
“Come on Claire,” Marian replied. “I know I always have to go through you for a booking, but I might want to have a chat with her. You know how things crop up.”
“Hold your horses!” Claire replied. “Of course I know what goes on. What I don’t know is Tess’s telephone number, or,” she added, “her address.”
For a moment there was silence while Marian digested this information.
Then she said incredulously, “Are you telling me you don’t know where your own model lives? How does she get her assignments?”
“She comes into the office,” Claire said. “She point blank refuses to give any personal details whatsoever. What do you want me to do? Let her go?”
Marian was silent again. She couldn’t believe this. “Well I don’t know what to say,” she responded lamely. “Is she difficult to deal with? Any tantrums?”
“Absolutely delightful to deal with,” Claire said.
Marian hung up full of confused emotions. So Tess was also a mystery. Something to keep in mind.
The pictures were a big success and Marian wanted more, but it irked her that she couldn’t dominate Claire and demand Tess whenever she fancied. She was even more put out when she spoke to Claire again and was told Tess was tied up for the whole month.
She said incredulously, “You do realise Claire how many publications I control?”
Claire realised instantly if she didn’t resist this pressure Marian would walk all over her and dictate. She didn’t think she was taking much of a chance in defying her. She wanted Tess too badly.
She replied smoothly, “Marian I’m not stupid enough to ignore the big time people and you’re one of the biggest, but if I let people down you know the message that will circulate… You can’t rely on her…I have to say no to that.”
She suddenly had an idea. “A suggestion,” she said. “When you are considering an assignment give me a ring. I can then tell inquirers Tess has a prior engagement but it’s not definite. Then they take a chance. You don’t.”
Marian was no fool and realised Claire held the whip hand. Tess was a rare jewel. She might also be telling the truth, although she wouldn’t bet on it. She said shrewdly, “Fair enough Claire, but what happens if you get two big timers wanting Tess at the same time?”
“If I’m that lucky,” Claire said. “The purse decides… What else would you expect?”
Marian was beginning to respect Claire. “Tell you what,” she said. “How about you and I have lunch together?” She said carelessly, “Say the Dorchester next Friday midday?”
Claire jumped at it. “Good notion,” she said. Then she sweetened the whole thing. “You wouldn’t like me to bring Tess along would you?”
Marian was delighted. “Why you old fox,” she exclaimed. “Don’t be surprised if the odd photographer turns up.”
Claire was counting on it, and said airily, “Oh! We’ll take things as they come.”
Marian hung up with a smile on her face. She was looking forward to meeting Claire.
Tess was amazed when Claire told her she was going to the Dorchester and her eyes lit up. Such a change in her fortunes in such a short time.
“Treat it as an assignment,” Claire said. “We’re lunching with Marian Haines. Have no doubt photographers will turn up and will expect something special.”
“Something silver again?” Tess asked.
“Brilliant!” Claire said. “But plenty of flesh showing. Give the Dorchester something to talk about.”
Tess went slowly away already planning.
When she met Claire on Friday she was covered by a coat which she carelessly cast aside as they entered the Dorchester. Claire gulped and hoped they wouldn’t be thrown out. Tess was in silver again, and everything was covered, but everything was emphasised. She was the silvery nude all over again.
As if by magic an army of photographers suddenly appeared and Tess was surrounded. Claire shooed them away and turned to find Marian at her elbow looking very pleased with herself. “Fancy all those photographers turning up,” she whispered.
“Yes! just fancy,” Claire remarked. Her smile was as big as Marian’s.
They sat down and the waiter brought them each a menu which was in French. Claire leaned on Marian for help and wondered how Tess would react… She soon found out.
The waiter hovered and Tess signalled him. She then proceeded to order in French, and even conversed with him in the language. Marian was as stunned as Claire and shot a look at her but Claire just raised her eyebrows.
“So you’re bilingual,” Marian said. “Any further surprises?”
“You mean am I bisexual?” Tess asked. “I don’t know.”
“Don’t know?” repeated Marian incredulously.
“Well I haven’t tried yet,” Tess said carelessly.
Marian looked at Claire, and they both burst out laughing. The girl’s full of surprises Marian thought, and decided to have a go at her.
“Where did you learn French?”
“Taught myself,” she said.
“But the accent,” Marian insisted.
“Oh! I knew a French boy,” Tess said.
Marian wouldn’t give up. “Where did you go to school Tess?”
“I only answer questions from the age of 18,” she replied.
Marian was getting irritated. Cheeky little bitch, she thought. She said tartly “Either you’re hiding something Tess, or nothing. Which is it? You can’t keep up this charade forever.”
Tess suddenly changed and said firmly to Marian. “I’m offering myself as I am. People must decide for themselves.” There was a cold look in her eyes that Marian hadn’t seen before. So she was tough as well, she thought. What a fucking combination.
Claire broke into her thoughts as the food arrived. “I had a word with Tess about the bookings,” she said.
Tess, anxious to soothe Marian, chipped in and said, “Good idea! I’ll always be glad to work with you and David Warne.”
She went on dreamily, “Wonderful man,” knowing very well Marian would carry the news straight back to him.
Marian went home still wondering about Tess, but very pleased she’d met Claire. She knew now she could always get Tess but the price had to be right. Her thinking coincided absolutely with Claire’s.
Tess was quietly pleased… She knew the pictures would be good, and she’d shown Marian she wasn’t going to be pushed around.
Marian Haines was in her office when a call came through from Paris. She guessed instantly it was Marie Sande, one of the big French designers, and, she recalled, their Paris show was not far away.
She smiled as Marie’s broken English came on the line. “Hallo chérie! Some time no see.”
“Always a pleasure to speak to you darling,” Marian gushed. Then she waited… She guessed what Marie wanted, but she wasn’t going to make it easy for her. Let her spell it out. Perhaps make her owe a favour.
The uncomfortable silence irked Marie. She had expected Marian to talk business, then perhaps a few casual questions would give her what she wanted.
“You still there?” Marion asked.
“I am darling.” Marie hesitated. “I was thinking about the show.”
Marian encouraged her. “You mean the Paris week?”
“Of course darling. As you know we’re always looking for new models if they’re good enough.”
“You only book the tops,” Marian replied. “I know that.”
Marie saw she’d have to be direct and said slowly, “I’ve heard some reports of a new model, name of Tess. Matter of fact I caught a news item of her the other day, and she looked sensational… But of course,” she continued hastily, “that’s one picture.”
Marian smiled to herself. Gotcha! “That picture was from my show Marie,” she went on. She knew perfectly well Marie knew this too.
“So what do you think? Dangerous to decide from one picture.”
“Are you asking me if I could recommend her for Paris?”
“I am.”
“Right! pin your ears back… She’s an absolute dazzler, the camera simply loves her. A star if ever I saw one. Although young she’s her own natural style and I tell you Marie she should be the star of your show.”
Marie was silent in thought. Then she said, “That good?”
“You can bet on it,” Marian said. “That do you Marie?”
“Of course! Of course! Who is her agent?”
“Claire Lewis.”
“Don’t think I know her.”
“Probably not. She’s not one of the big agencies, but well thought of and absolutely reliable.”
“Can you give me her number darling?”
Marie scribbled it down.
Marian finally said, “Don’t think because you’re a big name Claire will drop everything to please you. She honours her assignments and I can tell you she’s overwhelmed with calls for Tess.”
“She’s a hard one then?”
“Yes, but in the right way. She’ll drive a hard bargain but she won’t let you down.”
“Well I’ve got six weeks,” Marie mused.
“You’re definitely going to book her then?” Marian’s voice was triumphant. “Don’t forget you owe me one.”
“I won’t forget. I just hope I don’t fall flat on my face.”
Marian put the phone down with a small smile on her face. She intended to go over for the show and was thinking of the shock Marie was going to get.
Marie rang Claire’s office, announced herself and a moment later was talking to Claire.
“The news has reached Paris of your new model, Tess. I was wondering about her for my Paris show.”
Claire didn’t turn a hair. She said coolly, “She is a star but many people have yet to realise it. I only book her on star terms.”
“Surely you are not suggesting she is in the same class as my international models?” Marie protested.
Claire replied firmly. “She’s better. You’ve only to see her.”
Such confidence on top of Marian’s recommendation impressed Marie and although Tess was unknown she made a decision. “All right! I’ll book her.”
“Just a minute,” Claire said. “What dates?”
Marie told her and after a brief delay Claire told her, “Dates confirmed.”
“I hope she’s as good as you can talk,” Marie said.
“You can have your money back if you’re not satisfied,” Claire said, “And by the way, prepare yourself for a shock, Tess is not your ordinary model.”
Marie hung up feeling even more mystified. She did not normally act so blindly, but she had an underlying feeling she’d made the right decision. “Hope I don’t regret this,” she thought.
Claire told Tess she’d been selected for the Paris show but she remained quite cool. “Good!” she exclaimed, “I’ll be able to look at the Paris shops.”
Claire was a little incensed at her reaction. The other models would have given their eye-teeth for such an opportunity. “You do realise,” she said levelly, “the top international models, Tania Dean, Jo Baker, the dark venus, Mich Harold, will all be there.”
“They’d better look out then,” Tess responded.
Such conceit annoyed Claire and she drew herself up and looked Tess full in the face. She started to smile and as usual Claire’s defences fell away and she started smiling too.
“You are a bitch Tess,” she said.
“Some call it style Claire,” she replied.
Claire suddenly realised Tess had told her a big truth and wondered if her cool confidence was a mask.
“Best of luck,” she said, and stared at her thoughtfully.
Tess bent over and gave her a light kiss, then she was gone. Claire remained thinking and wondering about her.
The Paris show arrived.
Tess got off the plane at Charles de Gaulle airport and found her way to the hotel. She had a quick look round then smartened herself up. Never know who you might meet, she thought.
As she spoke French she had no difficulty in finding the venue for the fashion show, the Stade de France in Paris. She stared at the big glass doors for a moment then went forward and tried them. She smiled delightedly as they swung open noiselessly, and following a few wide corridors she found herself facing the auditorium, with the catwalk disappearing into a stage at the far end. The size of the place impressed her, and she took a seat quietly drinking in the atmosphere.
After a while she heard voices from the stage and guessed some preparations were being made for the fashion show, and while she would like to have explored she guessed her presence would be unwelcome.
Then she felt a light hand on her shoulder and a pleasant French voice inquired, “You interested chérie?”
Tess turned and faced a very smart lady, dark, with very intelligent eyes: Marie Sande.
She focussed her blue eyes on her and replied in French with a smile on her lips, “I’m being a bit cheeky. Spying out the land. I’m in the fashion show.”
Marie had seen many beauties, but this one took her breath away. She’d never seen her before and took an educated guess. “You’re Tess aren’t you? I’m Marie Sande.”
Tess sprang to her feet. “I apologise for intruding. I just had to see the place.”
Marie’s quick mind was working. This girl was going to be a knockout. She could probably use her more than she’d expected. She leaned over and kissed her lightly on the cheek. “You come with me Tess,” and she took her to the stage and went through the curtains where several people were talking.
They stopped when they saw Tess and her impact was not lost on Marie. She’s going to stop a few others too, she thought. “Just going through a few things with one of my models,” she said.
Tess was thrilled at her words and followed Marie to the dressing rooms where she said, “Take your clothes off Tess.” Then she moved away.
When she returned Tess was standing naked and she was slightly startled and said, “I meant to your underwear Tess.” Then her mind clicked into gear. What a face, and that figure. Without underwear the dress effect would be perfect.
Tess reached for her clothes but Marie said, “No, Tess, hold it,” and she brought out a shimmering white and lace creation that was so flimsy she held it in one hand. Tess couldn’t get it over her head and Marie had to help her.
When it was in place Marie stepped back then came close and fingered her nipples through the lace. “Don’t forget,” she whispered. “They all like the nipple shadow. Yours are more than a shadow I must admit – wonderful!”
“Is this for the show?” Tess asked.
“Definitely! When I’ve altered it.”
Marie then proceeded to prod and poke, gather material, put in pins. Then she said, “Hold on a minute,” and skipped away.
She came back with a man and a woman. “This is Naomi. She’ll check the alterations,” she said.
She turned to the man. He was above average height, dark, and he had an easy air of command but there was humour in his eyes.
“This is Raoul,” she said. “My associate.”
He smiled at Tess and said, “My! You’re a dazzler.”
He cast his eyes all over her, then said to Marie, “Yes! Perfect.”
“Why haven’t I seen you before?” he asked Tess.
“The English Channel?” she suggested.
Raoul laughed, advanced and kissed her full on the lips. “I like it! I like it!” he sang out. “So the English do have a sense of humour.”
He said to Marie, “What about those other two we were holding back?”
“They’re going on Tess,” she said firmly. “Agreed?”
“Absolutely!” He went on softly. “I think one or two people are going to get a surprise.”
“Don’t I know it,” Marie replied.
Naomi indicated she had finished and helped Tess from the dress, so once more she stood naked. Raoul whistled, “Tess you’re gorgeous.”
He held his hands up, and asked, “Do you mind?”
She shook her head, and he ran his hands over her. “Lovely nipples, and what legs,” he said.
“Get those other two dresses Naomi and let’s get this done.”
She fetched the dresses and Tess went through the same performance again, this time with an audience of two. When it was over Raoul kissed her on the cheek, said, “Thank you chérie!” and strode off with a spring in his step.
Once more Tess was left naked with Marie and she advanced the few steps separating them and put her arms round her. “Thank you,” she whispered. “I’m so glad I came.”
Marie was not a lesbian but she felt her senses stirring and she was shaken and put Tess at arm’s length.
“Do you realise the effect you have on people?” Her voice was a little breathless.
A tiny smile crept across Tess’s face and she said enigmatically, “My weapons are my body.”
Marie stared, not quite understanding, but she knew she liked Tess, and felt certain her star was going to shine, and very soon.
“I would like you to dine with me tonight Tess,” she said. “Nothing dressy. No photographers. Just a quiet meal, and I want to introduce you to someone.”
She handed her a card. “Say seven o’clock?”
Tess was overwhelmed but managed to say thank you. She was still naked and Marie playfully tapped her on the bottom. “Get dressed and remove temptation,” she said.
.
She had in mind a little talk with Raoul first. Bloody cheek! Running his hands over Tess. He wouldn’t have tried it on with Tania Dean. She’d have slapped his face. Then she suddenly remembered her own reaction… Perhaps not.
Evening came and Tess fingered the card: The Celebrity. A cab took her and she entered and spoke to a waiter. “I’m looking for Marie Sande,” she explained.
“Of course mademoiselle,” he replied and took her to Marie’s table.
She was sitting with a slim blonde woman with shrewd grey eyes. “Tess, I want you to meet Adele Graine, boss of French Vogue magazine,” she said.
Tess offered her hand but Adele rose and kissed Tess lightly on the cheek. “I’ve been hearing lots about you,” she said.
Tess laughed. “All bad, I hope.”
Adele looked at Marie and they laughed. “See what you mean,” she said.
“Will you be at the Fashion show?” Tess asked.
“Wouldn’t miss it.”
“I’ll blow you a kiss if I see you,” Tess said.
“Models don’t do things like that.”
Tess smiled. “Don’t they?”
“I think you’ll find your hands full competing with the likes of Tania Dean and Jo Baker,” Marie said.
“I don’t compete,” Tess said shortly.
Marie looked at Adele who gave a tiny shrug. She was thinking Tess was going to have her eyes opened if she thought she was on a Sunday afternoon stroll.
“I can’t wait to see you in action,” she said, and she meant it. She realised Tess’s vivid beauty would be overwhelming. But could she perform? That was the question.
As midnight approached Marie offered to take Tess to her hotel. “I shall be fine,” Tess told her. “The taxi men love me!”
After she’d left Adele said to Marie. “Her beauty is stunning and you’ve told me her pictures are superb, but her attitude troubles me. As a newcomer I can’t believe she can be so nonchalant. I want to see her perform before I make a decision.”
“You may have to join a queue after the show,” Marie answered. “Don’t say I didn’t give you first choice.”
Adele lifted her hands in despair, “I know, chérie, but what can I do? I’m not convinced.”
She gave Marie a light kiss. “See you at the show.”
Marie shook her head slightly. “You’ll be sorry!”
The Paris opening was here and when Tess arrived she found bedlam. People and assistants running everywhere. Racks of clothes being arranged and rearranged. Some models half-dressed, some talking. The air was hot with excitement.
Then she saw Marie, who saw her at the same instant. Marie beckoned Tess. Then summoned a young dark-haired girl to her side.
“This is Jess,” she said. “She will be your dresser and she knows the programme. Follow what she says.” She swept away.
Tess gave Jess a huge smile and said in French, “I am yours.”
Jess’s eyes gleamed with mischief. She liked this beautiful English girl and felt sure they would click. “We will be good team,” she said.
She wondered what some of the top models would think about the number of appearances Marie had scheduled for Tess, but she was ready for a fight. That Tania Dean in particular. Nobody and nothing was ever good enough for her.
“You know Tania Dean?” she asked.
Tess shook her head.
Jess pointed and Tess saw her lounging before a knot of people, all making up to her. Certainly she was beautiful, but Tess was not impressed by the way she was ordering everyone about.
“Does she decide what she models?” she asked.
“Partly,” Jess said cautiously. “The big shows clamour for her, and she’s not modest about it.”
Tania suddenly spotted Tess and gave her an imperious wave, but Tess ignored her.
In a moment an assistant appeared before Tess and said, “Tania would like to meet you.”
Jess held her breath. She had the feeling Tess would fight.
“I shall be honoured,” she said, “immediately I’m free.” With that she said to a delighted Jess, “We’d better go, hadn’t we?”
Jess glanced back and saw a look of fury on Tania’s face and her heart lightened. She’d suffered at her hands in the past.
She took Tess to an area of racks and indicated some of the dresses she would model.
“I want you to try some that might need tucks,” she said.
“With or without underwear?”
“Always better without.”
Tess whipped off her clothes without a word until she was naked, and Jess gasped. “You’re the best I’ve seen.”
Tess gave her a light kiss. “And you’re the best I’ve seen. Let’s get on with it.”
Jess threw herself into the work with great enthusiasm and they didn’t have a break until late.
As they sat sipping coffee she said to Tess, “You’ll do.”
She was thinking with great satisfaction Tania was going to get a big shock.
Some distance away Tania was still holding forth to an admiring circle, and asked, “Who’s that fair-haired, blue-eyed beauty? The one that walked away from me?”
No one answered until an English girl said, “She’s a newcomer.”
“I know that,” Tania snapped.
“Let me finish,” the other girl said. “That’s Tess. Didn’t you catch the English news and TV the other week? They dubbed her the silvery nude. She created a big stir.”
“Oh!” Tania muttered. “That’s her is it?” She thought for a moment and wondered if she could be a rival.
“What else has she done?”
“Nothing. That was her first.”
Tania digested this swiftly. Could be good news. Perhaps bad. She must have something.
“Oh well!” she remarked. “No sweat for us is it?” But Tania could sniff out danger and she made Tess an enemy.
She beckoned to Marie who came to her side swiftly. “I don’t know that new English beauty,” she said. “I asked her over but she walked away. Must say I was surprised.” She hesitated. “Not like you to book a newcomer for the Paris show Marie.”
Before Marie could reply she said swiftly, “I suppose she’ll fill in the minor roles?”
Marie could see Tania was ready to unsheathe her claws and said cautiously, “Well of course chérie, you are the star. But we’re cashing in on her publicity. Couldn’t ignore it.”
She went on, with her tongue in her cheek. “If she falls flat on her face it’s too bad isn’t it?” She managed to force a smile to her face.
Tania was quick to accept this as it matched her own hopeful thinking and she returned Marie’s smile. “But it would be a pity wouldn’t it?”
Marie shrugged and walked away, but Tania felt happier. It seemed Tess wouldn’t be a worry, and she could expect to remain unchallenged.
Half an hour later Tess sauntered over to Tania and said apologetically, “I hope you didn’t think I was ignoring you. Jess was pushing me. She thought a few tucks were going to be needed.” She smiled. “She was absolutely right.”
Tania studied Tess from close quarters. She was unbelievably beautiful, and her colouring, fair hair, blue eyes, was superb. Not to mention her figure. She began to feel a little unease again. Still she wouldn’t have the poise, the confidence, would she?
She realised Tess was waiting for a reply and said as nonchalantly as she could, “No sweat! Good luck on your first appearance.”
But she didn’t relish Tess’s reply. “Good luck to you as well. I suppose staying on top is nearly as difficult as getting there.” Then she glided off.
Tania was furious. Tess had spoken to her as though she was an equal and she was not in a good mood for the start of the show.
Tess peered through the curtains. There had already been a brief announcement that the show was commencing and the place was packed. There was a big hum from the audience and Tess could sense the electric atmosphere. Suddenly her arm was hastily jerked and Jess hissed, “Get back and get ready.”
Tess’s first appearance was in beachwear. A skimpy top and brief shorts cut into a provocative ‘V’ at the sides. Three buttons fastened them and Tess undid the top one. Just before she strode out Jess whispered, “The top button’s undone.”
Tess gave her a sunny smile. “I know,” she whispered. “The wanton look.”