CHAPTER 144

CELEBRATION AND NEW FRIENDS

"Sorry?" Lara looked at Martha, still holding her hand, with a look of confusion.

"What do you mean you're not a model?"

"Just not, I guess." Lara pulled her hand away. "I work cleaning here in the condominium. I clean my friends' houses every day, one house at a time."

Lara distanced herself from the girl, looked at Lipe and said, "She's crazy," then went to fetch her purse and take a good sip. The pool had been forgotten; the dive would have to wait.

"Hey, Lara, forgive me." Martha ran after her, and Lipe followed. "I didn't say it the right way, but what I meant was that you could very well be a model, you know?"

"I've told her that many times, Martha. She has the looks, the height, the body..."

"Stop it, Lipe!" Lara interrupted him with an awkward smile. "I'm just an ordinary woman. No agency would accept me; I'm even considered a bit plain."

"Plain?! Lara, you're one of the most beautiful women I've ever seen!" Martha was excited and wanted the girl's