Devin escorted Rebecca downstairs to the Thursday night salon after Yoshi Oba and the other guests at the Art Motel had thoroughly inspected every inch of her newly transformed room.

By nine o’clock the party was in full-swing. Unsmiling scenesters drank and engaged in serious, important conversations; the interlopers, as always, hung off their words and the arms of sofas and the high-backed chairs around the bar. Yoshi Oba held court, laughing and telling dishy tales of artists behaving badly. Devin paraded Rebecca around, introducing her to those he deemed worthy, while avoiding and gossiping about those he didn’t. He left her side only to refresh their drinks or to use the washroom.

Devin was in the bathroom when Stacey approached Rebecca. “Hey, Rebecca. Can I ask you something?”
“Sure. I guess. Of course.”

“You know the show Jimbeau and I are doing for Vacancy?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, we were wondering if you wanted to be in it.”

“Actually, I was thinking about doing these new dolls – just a few, there’s not much time obviously,” said Rebecca.

“That’s not what I mean. I mean, we’d like you to be in our show – the multi-disciplinary performance piece.” Stacey noticed a flash of confusion cross Rebecca’s face. She sighed. “You know, the fashion show.”

“I know, but what would I do?” Rebecca asked.

“We’d like you to model.”

Rebecca coughed, nearly spitting up the mouthful of wine she was in the process of swallowing. “You’re kidding, right?”

Stacey shook her head. “Not at all. We think it would be awesome. I’m making this capelet out of this bison pelt someone gave Jimbeau. Just with a black dress , maybe some boots."

“I guess, maybe. Can I let you know tomorrow?”

“Let her know what?” Devin was back.

“Nothing,” Stacey said.

“Stacey and Jimbeau want me to be in their show.”

“Of course they do.”

“I’m going to sleep on it,” Rebecca said.

“Sounds like a good plan,” Devin said. “Can I get either of you ladies a drink?”

“No thanks,” said Stacey.

“Sure,” Rebecca said, handing him her empty wine glass.

“Be right back.” Devin winked and kissed Rebecca on the cheek.

“He’s so nice,” Rebecca said.

“He’s really smart,” said Stacey.

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