Welcome to the second part of the diary. This is where everything changes. Don't forget to leave a Vote (the star) and comment on your favorite lines!

I try not to think too much so that anxiety doesn't take over.

August 8, 2017

Today was my first day at the Emporium.

When I rang the bell, Tony welcomed me with a smile. "Welcome," he said. His voice was calm, but my heart was racing. Inside, I sat on one of the sofas near the door, trying to look like I belonged there.

Tony turned to Bianca and asked her to help me get ready. She took me to her room—the place where she sleeps—and opened a large drawer. Out came the tools of the trade: makeup, a hairdryer, brushes.

As she worked on me, she talked. She's been here a year. Her family has no idea. She told me Tony is like a father to the girls, but she gave me a warning that chilled me: "Be careful with Farfalla." Apparently, she has a difficult personality and likes to hurt others.

I told her I know how to deal with bad people. I've had plenty of practice.

My clothes weren't right, so Bianca opened her wardrobe. She picked out a black dress. Even though we aren't the same size, it fit me like a second skin. She showed me where the towels and sheets were kept, reminding me of the rules: keep the rooms clean, wear perfume, and always look perfect.

I looked at myself in the mirror. In those high heels and that black dress, I felt... perfect.

"You need a name," Bianca said. "I'd call you Patrice."

"It's beautiful," I replied, "but I prefer Fernanda."

When Tony saw me, his first order was immediate: "No more bangs. They make you look too childish." He liked my brown hair, though.

As Tony left to answer his phone, Bianca handed me a silver necklace with a flower-shaped pendant. A final touch. A lucky charm.

I walked back into the waiting room, and the air changed. The girls didn't react warmly. Farfalla barely looked up. Only Mariah and Eloah seemed kind.

Tony asked for my name one last time. "Fernanda," I said firmly.

From that moment on, Christine Mayer was gone.

Author's Note: The transformation is complete. But the real test is about to begin. The bell is ringing... who is on the other side? Comment "TEAM FERNANDA" if you're ready for Chapter 2!