Chapter 28
The day of the Versace show had finally arrived, and the atmosphere backstage was electric. Mike was surrounded by models, stylists, and makeup artists, all rushing to make sure everything was perfect.
He was wearing a stunning piece that Gigi had helped him choose: a sleek suit that showed off his muscular frame, while a subtle sparkle detail caught the light.
"Remember what I taught you," Gigi whispered, adjusting Mike's collar with an encouraging smile. "Confidence is everything. You're going to rock it!"
"Okay, I'll try not to look so nervous," Mike replied, trying to calm himself. He could hear the buzz of the crowd outside, their voices filled with anticipation.
When the time finally came, the show director motioned for the models to get ready. Mike's heart was racing as he positioned himself behind the curtain, waiting for his moment to walk down the runway.
Beside him, Gigi looked up at him and smiled. "You're ready. Go and show the world who you are."
Mike took the first step and the music began to play. As he walked down the runway, he felt the energy in the room. Everyone's eyes were fixed on him. What started as nervousness quickly turned into a growing confidence. He stood up straight, squaring his shoulders, allowing his presence to dominate the space.
The audience's reaction was instantaneous. There was a momentary silence, followed by murmurs of surprise and admiration. What no one expected was the strength and elegance that Mike exuded as he walked, each step calculated and powerful.
He moved like a veteran, as if he were in his own comfort zone, adrenaline coursing through his veins.
Backstage, Donatella watched with a smug smile. "I knew he had it," she commented, exchanging a glance with Gigi. "He was born for this."
Gigi was beaming, clapping enthusiastically as Mike moved with confidence. "Look at him! I knew you could do it!" she cried, beaming with pride.
Among the guests, Anna Wintour watched intently, her expression impassive but her eyes sparkling with interest. Mike was definitely catching her eye. He wasn't just another model; there was something about him that captured the spirit of the show and fashion in a unique way. In her mind, she thought: That name is one to watch.
As Mike neared the end of the runway, he allowed himself a small smile, feeling in the thick of it. He struck a final pose, an expression of determination and strength, and then turned, walking off the runway to thunderous applause.
Backstage, the mood was euphoric.
"You were incredible!" Gigi hugged him, her eyes shining. "Everyone was amazed!"
"I can't believe I did that," Mike replied, still in shock. "It was an unreal experience!"
Donatella approached, her expression full of approval. "You really brought something special to this show. I look forward to working with you more in the future."
Donatella's words echoed in Mike's mind. He knew he had taken a significant step in his new journey, one that could lead to incredible opportunities. The show wasn't just a fashion presentation; it was a sign that he was ready to embrace his new role in the industry, and perhaps even more than that.
The rest of the evening passed with cheers and accolades, but Mike knew this was just the beginning. He was determined to seize every moment and opportunity that came his way, doing what he truly loved, surrounded by people who had become a new family to him.
Chapter 29
The Versace show's buzz was instant and overwhelming. Soon after the event, social media exploded with comments, photos and videos of Mike's iconic runway moment.
The hashtags #MikeAtVersace and #NewFaceOfFashion began trending worldwide, with fans and celebrities sharing their thoughts on the former military man's debut in the fashion world.
The tabloids and news sites were in a frenzy. "The ex-Navy SEAL who conquered the runway" was one of the headlines that quickly spread.
Photos of Mike, with his imposing posture and stunning suit, dominated magazine covers and Instagram feeds, as journalists wondered how someone so unexpected had become one of the event's highlights.
"Mike is not just a model; he is a force of nature," one influential fashion critic wrote on his blog, praising the way he brought a new energy to the show. "His presence is undeniable, and his scars tell stories that many models only dream of having."
Celebrities were no exception. Several took to social media to express their admiration. Kendall Jenner posted a photo of Mike on the runway with the caption:
"So proud of my friend! He absolutely killed it! #MikeAtVersace."
Gigi Hadid, who was his mentor, shared a video from the show, showing Mike's confidence as he walked the runway, adding:
"When you know your friend was born to shine! #Versace."
Social media was abuzz with comments about Mike's handsomeness and charm. Women went wild: "Who is this man?!" and "OMG he is perfect!" were just a few of the reactions that dominated the feeds.
Many speculated about his past, and the connection between him and the Bieber-Hadid family also became a hot topic.
Meanwhile, some tabloids focused on his military past. "From the battlefield to the runway: Mike's stunning transformation" was one of the hot topics, with analysis of how his experience in the Navy influenced his posture and presence.
Critics questioned how someone with such a rich and complex history could make it in the fashion industry, with many concluding that Mike's authenticity was his greatest asset.
On TV, fashion commentators debated the implications of his debut. "He's not what the industry expected, but he's exactly what we need," said one expert, while another added: "Mike represents a new era, where models are more than just pretty faces. They have stories, experiences, and that makes them even more captivating."
The coverage was so intense that even talk shows began inviting Mike, Gigi and Donatella to discuss the impact of the show and Mike's future in fashion. He found himself at the center of a media whirlwind, something he had never imagined but was ready to embrace.
Eventually, the media not only embraced Mike as a new fashion icon, but elevated him to a status he had never dreamed of. He became a symbol of strength and resilience, and with each new photo or video that emerged, the anticipation only grew.
It was clear that Mike's story was just beginning, and everyone was eager to see what he would do next.
Chapter 30
August brought new opportunities for Mike, who was excited to walk in another show, this time for the renowned brand Ralph Lauren. The anticipation backstage was palpable, and everyone seemed eager to see what the former military man would bring to the runway again.
After his huge success at Versace, Mike was now seen as a model on the rise, and his presence had become synonymous with power and confidence.
When he arrived at the show venue, Mike was warmly welcomed by all the team members. He was dressed in a tailored suit that not only highlighted his athletic physique, but also reflected the timeless elegance of Ralph Lauren.
The muted colors and impeccable cut complemented his rugged appearance as he prepared for what he hoped would be a memorable evening.
"You look amazing," Gigi commented as she helped Mike adjust his tie. "Just remember to breathe and have fun!"
The runway was filled with lights and cameras, and the buzz of the audience added to the electrifying atmosphere. This time, the music was softer, creating a sophisticated ambiance that perfectly matched the brand's collection. Mike felt at ease, as if he were about to enter a new chapter in his life.
When the lights went down and the show began, Mike took his first step with the confidence he had gained over the past few weeks. The heat of the spotlight illuminated his face as he walked with the same determination he had shown at Versace.
As he walked down the runway, he noticed the admiring glances of the audience, a feeling that now felt familiar and comfortable to him.
The show was a resounding success. The combination of Ralph Lauren's elegance and Mike's commanding presence resulted in applause and cheers of enthusiasm. The audience's gaze was fixed on him, and Mike knew he had won over not only the spectators but also the critics.
Backstage, Donatella, who was there to support her new friend, smiled as she watched him shine. "He really knows how to captivate an audience," he said, sharing a pleased look with Gigi.
After the show, Mike was surrounded by journalists and fans, all eager to meet the "man of the hour." He answered questions with surprising humility, acknowledging that fashion was a new world for him, but one he was quickly falling in love with.
"I never thought I would do something like this, but now I realize it's a form of expression and art," he explained to a reporter.
The comments on social media were even more fervent than the last time. "Mike just dominated the Ralph Lauren runway!" was one of the many posts that circulated, accompanied by photos of his impressive performance. People couldn't stop talking about how he brought a new meaning to menswear.
The Hadid sisters and the Bieber family were in the front row, cheering with excitement.
"He's unstoppable!" Gigi shouted, as Kendall filmed the whole thing on her phone.
"Mike, you were spectacular!" Hailey added, beaming.
By the end of the night, Mike knew his place in the fashion industry was solidifying. He had become a prominent figure, someone who not only modeled clothes, but also represented a new era of authenticity and strength.
August promised to be just the beginning of his new journey, and Mike was more than ready to embrace what lay ahead.
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