Love Issue, The (2023)

[bunniefuu]

- Ooh!

- Sorry, Darcey.

Those wheels have a mind of their own.

And what time do you call this?

- I'm not late.

- I'm joking.

Of course you're not late,

you're never late.

Listen, can I get a quick word

about the lead beauty story

for the September issue?

- I have a suggestion.

- Sure.

Okay, what's this brilliant idea of yours?

Give me three words to describe this.

What am I supposed

to be describing, exactly?

The fragrance.

What feelings does it evoke for you?

Three words off the top of your head.

Mm, light, floral, and romantic.

What's your angle?

Believe it or not,

this fragrance was a best-seller

15 years ago.

- Wow.

- Imagine a double page spread

entitled "Heritage Fragrance.

Do these classic scents

stand the test of time?"

Tell me more.

I blind test 15 perfumes

from 15 years ago.

To coincide with our 15-year anniversary?

Great idea.

This way we're giving

She readers

exactly what they want,

a fragrance suggestion

that we road-tested ourselves.

Yes, because our readers

don't just want to smell good...

They want to feel good too.

Whoa!

Oh!

Can you get me a coffee, please?

No problem. Uh, anything else?

Uh, no, it should be good.

Thank you, Mia.

I didn't think he was gonna be

in the office until next week.

Yeah, must have come back

early from his trip.

Hm.

You seem thrown.

How are you two, by the way?

Oh, fine.

Are you sure?

I mean, we broke up like six months ago.

Can you stop typing for a sec?

Listen, six months isn't a long time

when your ex is also your boss

and you have to spend all

your time in the same office.

I mean, I barely think about him.

Right.

Lalala!

What's strange though is that

Brandon's being super cagey

about the cover for the September issue.

Right. He's usually

rampaging around the office

- making a huge deal about it.

- Mm-hmm.

Darcey, can I have a word in my office?

Sure.

- You wanted to see me?

- Please. Have a seat.

Okay.

So, listen, um,

I need you to spearhead

the September cover sh**t.

But you always do the Sept...

I know, I usually take full

responsibility for it

but something's come up

and you're the only one

in the company that I trust

to hand it over to.

This is incredible, Brandon.

Um, thank you.

I've always been a huge fan

of your work, Darcey,

and I don't think we should

let our personal history

get in the way of our professional future.

So why don't we start a new chapter?

With you doing this cover.

Sounds good to me.

Um, I'm presuming that you've

made a start already?

No. It's all yours.

You have full control.

You're giving me full control?

Using... all my own ideas?

Mm-hmm. I know you've been

wanting to get your hands

on a cover for quite some time

so now's your chance.

This is such a huge

opportunity. Thank you.

Ah, your enthusiasm

is exactly what we need

to make this our most memorable cover yet.

Okay, I don't want

to rain on my own parade

but why now?

Well, as you know, our sales

figures are falling. Fast.

This issue could be make or break for She.

Okay, well...

We know our USP is that our readers

love following fashion and beauty trends.

But it takes more than a brand

name to convince them, right?

- So what if we prove to them...

- Let me stop you right there.

I completely trust your judgment on this.

You do?

Darcey. You got this.

I won't let you down.

Great.

Hi.

- Oh...

- I...

- Uh...

- Sorry, I...

You know what? It's fine,

it's... you take it.

I insist, you can have it,

I actually have another copy

up in my office, so...

That's fine, I just...

Wanted to see if the cover

is as terrible up close

as it was at a distance.

Upon closer inspection,

I conclude this may be

one of the most uninspiring

covers I have ever seen.

Ugh.

You know, I don't remember

asking what you thought of it.

But what I do know

is that someone actually

put a lot of effort into

making that cover.

So, perhaps you should keep

your highly offensive opinions

to yourself in the future.

Hm?

There you go.

Goodbye.

What did I say?

The worst cover he's ever seen. Please.

Bad news, I'm afraid.

I tried Simon Leary's office

and he's refusing to let

his photographers work with us.

Apparently, She is not cutting

edge enough for his clients.

- Plan B it is, then.

- What's plan B?

I have another way to reach

out to him. That's all.

This is a really big deal

for you, isn't it?

The September cover

is literally the fashion moment

of the season.

If we get this right,

we can get She's reputation back on track.

Now, let's run through

the to-do list for the sh**t.

Simon! Hey!

Fancy seeing you here.

Darcey Harrison...

Didn't have you down for a runner.

Actually, it's great that I ran into you.

I'd love to tell you about

my plans for the new She cover.

Your assistant already spoke to me.

And while I respect your opinion,

I just wanted to make it clear

how we're looking to change things up.

I mean, what makes She unique

is that we're not doing high fashion

for the sake of it.

We want women to be the best

versions of themselves that they can be.

My photographers are booked up

months in advance.

There's no way I can work

with your time frame

- even if I did agree to it.

- Okay. I know. Just...

I know the covers don't reflect

the forward-thinking articles

and the fashion features

inside the magazine...

Which is why I want to create

an image that pulls women in,

that intrigues them,

that makes the magazine look

as good on the outside...

as it does on the inside...

on the inside.

- Sorry...

- You gonna be okay?

Yeah, I'm good.

Look, I appreciate

what you're trying to do.

Really, I hear you.

But my photographers are all booked up.

- Unless...

- Unless?

- There is someone.

- Go on.

Well, he's back in town

after a career break.

I expect him to be all booked up

once word gets out.

We're just trying to build

his schedule right now.

Okay, and you think he might

want to work with me on this?

Don't get your hopes up,

he's kind of a big name,

I expect he's holding out

for high-profile editorial work

like he was doing before.

But right now his calendar

is clear, right?

You don't take no for an answer, do you?

No.

Fine. I'll get you a meeting.

But no promises.

- Okay.

- Now, can I get back to my run?

- Yes. Sorry.

- Thank you.

Hey Nate. It's me.

Look, uh, job opportunity's

just come my way

from a beauty editor friend of mine.

The magazine she works for

isn't doing so great

but I've always respected her work.

I think this might be a good opportunity

for you to put your stamp on something.

You know, remind the industry

what you're capable of.

Let's get you back out there.

Call me.

Hi.

So sorry.

Okay.

I'm... I'm so sorry, I gotta go.

Thank you so much for coming, everyone.

Really means the world to me

that you're all

here to celebrate.

Mia, thank you so much

for organizing this.

It really, really is special.

Drink up. Lots of champagne.

Oh...

Hi, what's going on?

Brace yourself...

Brandon got engaged.

What?

Uh, just...

Ooh.

- Uh, Darcey.

- Uh-huh.

- Hi.

- Hello.

Um, sorry about that,

I didn't mean to spring it on ya.

It's all good.

Um, congratulations.

Thanks. Thanks.

Um, are you...

Are you okay with this?

Of course.

I should have told you before

but I couldn't find the right time.

Thought you might think

it was a little too soon.

Oh, no, I couldn't...

Couldn't be happier for you.

- Are you sure?

- Positive.

- Really?

- Really. Yeah.

I'm actually seeing someone new myself.

- You are?

- Mm-hmm.

Oh. Uh, who?

Um...

Him.

That... that guy right

there in your office?

Mm-hmm. That's the one.

Right.

Well, anyways, he's here

to take me out for lunch

so, I'd better not keep him waiting.

- Mm-hmm.

- Congratulations. Again.

See you soon.

Hi...

You.

Uh, Nate Taylor.

Please to meet you... again.

- Come here!

- Oh.

Cheers.

- Uh...

- Uh...

Nate Taylor.

You were once named

promising new photographer

by the New York Times, weren't you?

Yes. Once.

Though that doesn't

excuse the fact that I am

far too opinionated

about other people's work.

And my own work.

Giving myself a hard time too.

I see.

Sorry if I was rude at the news stand.

If I had known you worked for

She magazine I mean, obviously...

Apology accepted.

Um, wanna go for coffee?

I need a coffee.

- You probably need a coffee too.

- Uh...

Let's... go...

For some coffee and we can do

our meeting there,

how's that?

I must warn you,

She magazine isn't my typical clientele.

Well, remind me, what kind

of work do you usually do?

High-end editorial,

big budget advertising campaigns...

Very impressive.

Uh, so what are you looking

for in your cover?

Well...

I want to create an exciting image

that really pops on the shelf.

Can you be more specific?

Something more inventive than the covers

that we've been putting out

there recently.

And I want to sh**t on location,

I think that's gonna be more reflective

of who our readers are

and what they want to see.

And presumably you'll be

looking to boost sales

at the same time?

Well, our sales figures

are just a temporary reflection of...

Okay, fine, fine.

The magazine sales are not exactly

setting the industry alight.

So, why has it taken you so long

to try something different?

Brandon Clark,

who's the CEO of She Magazine,

he, um, he usually sh**t the covers

and this is the first time

he's letting anyone else

take charge, so...

This is the first cover

you've ever headed up?

Well, I've sh*t around 100 beauty stories.

So I'm guessing that counts.

Or, since I'm more experienced cover-wise,

it would make sense for me

to take a lead on this one.

Oh, absolutely not, no.

We'll be working as a team.

So what do you say? Hm?

Okay. I'll do it.

Meet me here for a nine AM start.

I have some location ideas

I want to show you

Is this the new look you're going for?

- What?

- You just have something

- on your...

- On my...?

- Nose.

- Where?

Oh.

I've come up with the perfect

concept for the cover.

Go on.

The magazine is all about

confident, trend-conscious

everyday women, right?

So, we use actual readers,

the very readers who have made

She Magazine a success

over the last decade and a half

and we put them on the cover

as a celebration of womanhood.

What do you think?

Oh, you can't be serious...

Why wouldn't I be serious?

No. No way, I work

with professional models,

I don't have time to hand hold people

who don't know what they're doing.

You're missing the point of the magazine.

I mean, you do know that our slogan is

"Real fashion and beauty

for every woman," right?

Ah, no, I didn't know that.

- Hi.

- One black coffee, please.

And one...

Ooh, a vanilla mocha with...

Oat milk.

That's a very...

Interesting combination.

More interesting than boring black coffee.

What can I say? I'm a purist.

More like, boring.

Using real readers is

non-negotiable, I'm afraid.

I spoke to our biggest advertiser

and he's actually really excited

to see what we come up with.

You take creative input from advertisers?

Well, I spoke to Trent Dearden,

who's the senior executive,

yesterday, and he actually

promised us a huge ad next month

as long as we blow him away

with the September cover.

So, you know, I think you know

that our magazine actually really needs

that revenue right now.

And where do you suggest

the sh**t using women

who never modelled before

in their lives takes place?

Right here.

In Central Park.

We'll have the readers in a row

boat out in the lake, okay?

Imagine, textured knits, lots of movement,

even better if we can fake September

and have them surrounded by...

I... I can't listen to any more of this.

You told me you wanted to sh**t

a cover that would take

- She Magazine in a new direction.

- Mm-hmm.

And the best you can come up

with is a cliched location

that would look like every

other sh**t the magazine

has ever done? I mean...

Please tell me you have other ideas.

Yeah, of course I do, actually.

Hold on. Um...

You know, I thought it would be fun

if we can sh**t in a sumptuous

hotel lobby.

I'm picturing like a...

Cozy fire place, tartan rugs,

something that really says "new season."

What do you think?

No. Don't like it.

Okay, what about going

quintessential New York

and sh**ting in Time Square?

No.

Listen...

Just getting out of the studio

and having real readers,

I mean, that's gonna revolutionize

- our magazine and I think...

- Revolutionize?

There is nothing revolutionary

about any of the ideas

you've come up with so far.

Not one thing.

Okay, so then what do you suggest,

Mr. I'm so cutting edge?

The only way that I am

prepared to continue working

on this clearly very commercial job?

If you take the sh**t in a much

more editorial direction.

Meaning?

Dynamic story idea.

Strong hair, makeup.

And I absolutely refuse

to sh**t in a row boat.

So what exactly do you have in mind?

Okay, by sh**ting here,

in this urban location,

we will make She Magazine more relevant

than it has ever been.

Right, by sh**ting our

professional and aspirational

women against a wall with

graffiti sprawled all over it?

- Yeah, why not?

- No. Absolutely not.

I want vivid and inspiring,

not dirty and depressing.

No, but the colours, the contrast,

the emotion expl*si*n...

It's completely wrong for our readership.

I thought you brought me on

to bring a fresh perspective

to the magazine.

You know, in order to shake

things up, as you said,

you're gonna have to try something new.

I do know that, yes.

But I also know that

this isn't the right way to celebrate

15 years of She.

Look, we just need to come up

with a concept

that we both agree on.

So, let's... go find it.

- Okay...

- It's not... not this.

I'm thinking...

In an empty field

with a lone circus tent.

Um... no.

He is insufferable.

- Cute, though.

- Yeah, maybe.

But that does not make up for the fact

that he thinks he has free rein

to trample all over my ideas

just because he was a big sh*t

in the industry.

I mean, seriously, you should

see some of the ideas

that he's come up with, it's ridiculous.

Yeah, but he's creative and edgy, right?

All Simon's clients are,

that's why you've been

so desperate to work with them

over the years.

Yeah, that's true.

But I can't do anything too radical

because then if Brandon

doesn't like the cover,

I'm never gonna hear the end of it.

Nate's just trying to push you

out of your comfort zone, that's all.

You two just need to find your stride.

Here.

What do you think about this?

Oh. No.

I need three words to describe it, please.

Spicy and powerful...

Not me, the perfume.

Come on, one more.

Um, it's headache-inducing.

Finally, food's here.

So yesterday didn't go so smoothly.

You can say that again.

Just so you know,

there's a lot riding on us

getting this right, which is why I may

come across as being a little...

particular.

I get that.

But I'll admit that my brief

could have been more clear,

you know, I know the readership

like the back of my hand

but you don't, so...

Well, tell me, I want to learn

more about the readers,

what's important to them?

That's her.

That's our She Magazine reader.

She's smart, she's bold,

she's opinionated,

she wants honesty and authenticity

but at the same time, she wants beautiful,

aspirational photos that are

exciting to look at, you know?

Images she can put up

on her vision board or...

Add to her fridge.

Think I might have an idea.

Leave it with me.

Hey, Mom, how are you doing?

I'm still at the shop.

And believe it or not,

we've sold out of roses.

I had to pop to the stall to pick some up.

You should not be out this late, Mom.

Nate, it's not that late.

You're not pushing yourself

too hard, are you?

All this rushing around.

If you need a hand, just say the word.

Is everything alright in New York?

Yeah, it's fine. It's you

that I'm worried about.

How are you finding it?

Really?

Honestly?

It feels like I'm starting all over again.

I mean, Simon says I need

new photos for my portfolio

and then work will start coming in, but...

If things don't improve I'm just

gonna head right back home.

I can always pick up my wedding

photography business again.

That wasn't so bad.

Don't make any rash decisions, Nate.

Uh, what about that magazine job

you told me about?

Don't ask!

It feels like nobody in the industry

takes me seriously anymore.

I mean, this beauty editor

clearly cannot take direction,

she's using... not even

professional models.

Who are you putting on the cover?

Readers!

This whole thing is completely ridiculous.

I think that sounds like a great idea.

- You do?

- In fact, last night

I was looking through

the album of photos you took

at my 60th birthday.

You somehow managed to capture the essence

of every single person in the room.

And if anyone can make everyday women

look and feel wonderful,

it's you.

I don't know.

This promotion is amazing.

I'm so happy for you.

Yeah. It is.

You don't seem too enthused.

What's up?

I don't know, something seems fishy.

I mean, you know Brandon,

he's such a control freak.

Who cares?

This was your dream and you got it.

Yeah.

I mean, we do get along great.

Professionally.

And you're gonna knock it out of the park.

Out of the park.

Mm.

What now?

I don't know, I'm still unsure about Nate.

He's...

I'm just, I'm worried

that he's gonna take it too far,

you know? And then what am I gonna do?

Well, do you even know what too far is?

No.

Stand on the edge of a cliff

and look down.

That's how you'll know.

Hm.

Have you ever done that?

No.

But I read about it online.

Okay. Ready to go.

The very two people

I wanted to see.

Give me three words

to describe this fragrance

I'm about to waft under your noses.

How many more have you got to test?

Only eight.

Ooh, that's exotic.

It's mysterious.

Yet... enticing.

But the word that comes to mind is...

Passion.

Nate, you're a natural at this.

- Well...

- Well, you do realize

I'm gonna be spraying

a different perfume on you

every time you pass my desk

from now on, right?

Well...

Darcey?

Hm... Multilayered,

subtle and good for evening.

Will that do?

Is that the best you can come up with?

I'm sorry, I didn't realize

we were writing

a romance novel here.

Alright, let's make this snappy,

I've got back-to-back meetings today.

Good luck.

Darcey! And you must be...

Oh, yeah, so we're just

gonna go, I actually...

I'm late for an appointment,

I have to...

But I'll be back soon.

Okay.

So, if we're gonna be spending

all this time together,

I think we should get to know

each other a little bit.

- Should we?

- Yes.

Let's start with you.

Where did you grow up?

Upstate.

In a small town you won't have heard of.

- Look, is this really necessary?

- Well, what about your parents?

Uh, my dad left, so it was

mainly just me and Mom.

I'm sorry to hear that.

It's fine.

Look, as lovely as this is,

we should probably get back

to talking about the cover.

I have another appointment before lunch.

Right. Of course.

Do you want to take out your

notes so we can compare?

What notes?

You know, thoughts you've

jotted down about the sh**t,

all the ideas that we've come up with.

Wait, you don't have any notes?

Why would I write down

what's already in my head?

Doesn't it give you clarity

to see it on the page?

Not really.

Clearly put a lot of time into this.

This looks, um...

Time consuming.

Well, I've always done this.

So...

Listen, I want you to keep an open mind

about this location

I'm gonna show you.

It is kind of the opposite

of what you asked for

but I'm really excited about it,

and I think between the two of us,

we can make it work.

Hm. It's not another graffiti wall, is it?

No.

Then I promise I'll try to hear you out

- before I say no.

- You won't say no.

Mm...

Okay, why have you brought me here?

Okay, I know you said you

wanted to get out of the studio

- and onto location.

- Yeah. In fact,

that was my number one stipulation.

But have you thought it's

actually pretty intimidating

for a woman who's never modelled

before to sh**t outside?

You know what it's like,

photoshoots attract a crowd.

- Yeah, but...

- But think about it,

the readers would be

so much more relaxed here.

I mean, they can get changed in comfort

rather than fumbling around

in the back of a locations van.

Food and drink whenever they need

and I can play their favourite music

to, you know, help them get in the mood.

Okay, but this is an empty shell.

I mean, we're just gonna end up

using a boring backdrop

and it's just gonna look like

all the other covers

- that She Magazine churns out...

- No, it won't, though,

because together, we can make this place

into whatever we want.

Okay, you said you wanted

a celebratory feel, right?

- Yeah.

- Okay.

So... uh...

Alright...

We could do...

Old Hollywood glamour.

Uh, director's chair and a huge...

Okay, maybe this could be

like a studio light.

And, okay, no, but it would

really come alive

with... with the styling.

With... with the clothes

and hair, and the...

And the... the makeup.

And the...

Hm.

Or...

Okay, I just...

I just threw this together last night

as I was mulling things over.

Um...

I didn't know you could draw.

Yeah, sometimes it helps me

visualize... story.

So I was thinking we could do

a mock-up of a jazz bar.

I mean, something luxurious and elegant.

I mean, I love the colours.

And this chandelier

hanging above the bar, I mean,

you sketched it all so well.

So you really think that

we could do something like that

in here, like in this...

In this space?

Absolutely. We could use...

We could use props

to give it a 1930s mood.

And lighting for atmosphere.

Nobody would know those images

were sh*t inside a studio.

I know, but why don't we just

sh**t it in an actual jazz bar?

Oh no, the lighting in clubs and bars

is notoriously difficult

to work with and...

- And they're cramped, I mean...

- Yeah.

Four models, this space would be great.

I don't know, Nate, I'm not...

I'm not really convinced.

sh**ting in studio actually

allows us to be more creative.

We have this blank canvas

which we can mould

to be the perfect backdrop for our story.

You said you wanted this cover

to be different,

which requires taking a risk, right?

And you do take just the right

amount of risk and it pays off.

You read the American Style piece?

Uh, I may have come across it, yeah.

You just... checking up on me?

I'd call it doing my research, actually.

Mm-hmm. So what do you think?

Did I tell you how much

is riding on this sh**t?

You did.

And you really think this could work?

One hundred percent.

Alright, I'm in.

- Really?

- Yeah, let's do it.

Alright, this'll be great.

Uh, yeah.

I mean, I am working with

the most exciting photographer

that has hit New York in years, so...

Let's just talk about that

for a second.

That's... embarrassing.

Okay, so I'm thinking...

Simple black dress with like

a nice open toe black heel.

I think it's gonna pair perfectly.

- Mm-hmm?

- No, this outfit is boring.

I can't imagine any of this

looking interesting on the page.

I think the problem

is you're having a hard time

imagining how great these

clothes can look on our readers.

- Uh...

- Uh, just give me one second.

Now, what do you think?

Looks good, doesn't it?

Uh...

Professional models or not,

Nate needs to see how good these

clothes can look on all women.

- But I don't...

- It's the only way.

- Darcey!

- Yeah.

Um, you are Darcey Harrison, okay?

Own it!

You got this. You got this.

- Darcey Harrison.

- Hm.

Yes.

Ooh.

- Working it.

- Wow!

Working it.

Yeah.

Okay, this is for you.

Oh, I'm not, okay...

- Uh, not really my...

- Oh, cute.

Oh, you... Nice.

I have this for you.

- Okay, not really...

- Yeah, okay, sorry.

But yeah, you've got it.

It's perfect.

Oh, there's more.

- These are for you.

- Thank you.

Okay. Okay. You guys ready?

Do you see the vision?

You know what?

You've convinced me.

I knew it! Yes!

I love the gold, though I am thinking

maybe we add something,

like a black accent.

- Ooh.

- Ooh?

Especially with the jazz bar theme.

Yes. I agree. Actually,

that could work really well.

- You like it?

- Mm-hmm.

- I love it.

- You love it?

- I love it.

- We like it?

- I love it! I love it!

- Oh.

I love it. I love it.

I love it.

Oh...

Hi.

Please tell me you three aren't actually

going to be on the cover.

Of course not, no. No.

How many readers are you using?

- Um, five? Five?

- I thought it was four?

- Four, five?

- Gosh, you know what?

The time, oh, I actually

have another meeting...

- Right!

- So I'm gonna wrap this up.

Nate, Joanna's gonna see you out, so...

Oh yeah, I have to show you

something very important

- before you go, so...

- Oh, let me...

- Now. Now, Joanna.

- Okay, yeah.

- Mm-hmm. Bye.

- My things, just...

The, uh...

You got something on your... yeah.

Oh, yeah.

Well... I'll put it back.

Okay, spill.

What am I supposed to be spilling?

I don't know what happened back there,

but as soon as Brandon came into the room,

you got all flustered.

About that.

Okay, I'm gonna tell you,

but you have to promise me

that you won't think

- I'm completely crazy.

- Okay.

Actually, I can't make you

promise me that,

because if you told me

what I'm about to tell you,

I would seriously be concerned.

Okay, this sounds juicy.

Go on.

I may have told Brandon

that Nate is my boyfriend.

- What?!

- I know.

How did this even happen?

Tell me everything.

I just, I panicked

and I just didn't want Brandon

to think that I wasn't over him.

Well, when are you gonna tell Nate?

I mean, I don't really know if I am,

we've been getting along

great and, you know,

I don't want to go back to square one.

What, awkward silences

in front of a graffiti wall?

Babe, you've been there,

done that, okay?

You're gonna have to tell him.

Hm...

If you wanna keep this charade up,

you're gonna have to tell him.

I'll think about it.

- Darcey.

- Mm.

- I figured it out.

- Figured out what?

Where I've heard

the name Nate Taylor before.

- Right.

- He was that photographer

who fell off the face of the earth.

This time last year, he was flying high,

making a real name for himself

and then he literally

disappeared overnight.

He took a break from the industry

for personal reasons, so what?

I heard he stormed off set

in the middle of a sh**t

for a high-profile magazine.

Who does that? They had

to pull the whole story.

Okay, look, whatever happened,

we're lucky to be working

with him before his career

takes off again and he even

considers taking this job.

I'm only telling you this

because I'm looking out for you.

Okay, well then you need

to trust me, Brandon.

I know what I'm doing.

Still no bookings coming in?

They will.

But listen now,

I got something that can cheer

you up in the meantime,

at the very least, it will be

a welcome distraction.

What's going on?

I'm planning on asking

April to marry me.

- You are?

- I am.

You know, we've been

together for three years

and I just realized

that there's nobody else

that I'd rather spend the rest

of my life with, you know?

Congratulations, though I'm not surprised,

you two are a great couple.

We are, aren't we?

Yeah, well, let me know

if you need help with anything.

Well, funny you should ask,

I'm planning on throwing a proposal party

at a bistro that April's into.

Just an intimate thing,

a handful of friends and family.

Fancy being my official

event photographer?

- I'd love to.

- Thanks, man.

Maybe you could put an album

together, you know?

Something that April and I

can look back on

when we're together

in our retirement home.

- I'd be an honour.

- Thanks, man.

So, how's the sh**t coming along?

It's going very well.

I wanted to let you know

that I plan to reveal the cover

at the She Magazine midsummer party.

That's great. No pressure.

Along with the She team,

I've invited editors from rival magazines.

I wanna prove to everyone

that we're still a force

to be reckoned with.

Okay, well I'm excited to show everyone

- what Nate and I come up with.

- Me too.

And um...

I will be bringing my fianc to the party.

Oh, I get to meet the lucky lady.

Do I detect a note of sarcasm?

- Maybe one.

- Touch.

I assume you'll be bringing Nate?

Yes. Of course.

Of course I'm gonna bring him,

he's my boyfriend, so...

So, it's kind of like a double date.

- Yeah. Fun.

- Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

I look forward to getting to know him.

Mm-hmm.

- It'll be nice.

- Mm-hmm.

- I'll see ya down there.

- Alright.

You know, having Nate

and Brandon in the same room

all night is just asking for trouble.

You can always tell Brandon

that Nate can't make it.

I don't see why you should feel pressured

to bring a date anyway,

it's a work event, isn't it?

As tempting as that sounds,

it's Nate's cover too, so it's

only right that he's there.

We'll just have to keep them apart.

Brandon will be so busy schmoozing,

I don't see him having time

to start grilling Nate

about your relationship.

Oh, I spoke to the PR

for Every Woman lipstick,

she was acting a bit off.

Sounds like they're being very picky

about who they're giving early samples to.

It's creating a buzz

all over town already.

Imagine, a shade of red

that looks good on everybody.

It would go exactly with our theme!

We have to have it.

Which is why I want you to go

to the launch with me tomorrow.

You've got way more sway than I do.

Okay, fine, I'll come.

You know, you're much more

persuasive than you think.

You got me doing these classes,

didn't you?

I told you it was advanced.

Is it over soon? I'm just...

I think I have a cramp.

Good morning.

Hey, good morning.

Oh, I figured we'd walk.

- Come on.

- All the way to the prop house?

Yeah! We might see something

that inspires us along the way.

You are so from out of town.

How far is this exactly?

Uh, it's not... far.

Uh, look, I'll grab us some

coffees for the journey.

Fine. I haven't had my coffee yet, so...

Oh, let me guess. Black.

That's right.

Thank you.

I hope you're not expecting me

to drink that.

It's my favourite.

You're gonna love it.

It smells like a witch's brew.

No, trust me,

it tastes better than it looks.

No, I can't. I'm sorry.

Here's your black coffee,

I just wanted to see your face.

Fine. If it's that important

to you, I'm gonna try it.

Here.

Mmm!

- How is it?

- It's really good. Yeah.

- Really?

- Yeah, I'm actually...

- Glad you made me try this.

- Hm.

Okay, so we're going to need a counter

that will double up as a bar.

Plus glasses, lights, bar stools.

I'm just gonna check my emails quickly.

- Darcey.

- Mm-hmm?

Who could you possibly be emailing with

at 8:30 in the morning?

Nothing to see here.

You work too much.

Maybe.

Okay. Uh, what do you do for fun?

Oh, there must be something.

I like reading magazines.

Yeah, that's work. What else?

Um...

Yeah, I rest my case.

Wait, wait, wait. If we could

find a way to hang this

from the ceiling at the studio,

this would make

an excellent centrepiece

for our set, don't you think?

And what about this curtain?

It'll be perfect as a backdrop.

Oh, this is really coming together.

And then afterwards...

A dress.

Hm, matches your eyes.

Okay, I think that went really well.

Yeah, now that we're on the same page,

you're actually pretty easy to work with.

Hey...

These are so pretty.

Hey, lisianthus.

My mom's favourite.

- Aw.

- These are actually

one of the few flowers that can

withstand the summer heat.

My mom uses these in her wedding

bouquets this time of year.

- Your mom's a florist?

- Yeah.

She has a shop back home.

Recently just expanded the business,

has a couple of curbside stalls now.

Wow. So you must know

a lot about flowers then?

Well, I used to help out at the store

every day after school.

Definitely picked up a few things.

Stop!

I hate having my picture taken.

Well, the camera certainly

doesn't hate you.

Two spicy specials to go, please.

This place is my favourite,

I used to get lunch here

all the time when I lived in New York.

I've never seen somebody get so excited

about a pretzel.

Why do you always have me

trying weird foods?

Oh, because unexpected combinations

are the best. Here.

This sauce is to die for.

Thank you very much.

Alright.

Mmm!

Mmm!

So, why did you leave

New York so suddenly?

You can tell me to mind my own

business if you like.

No, no, it's okay.

I have to talk about it at some point.

I was doing a fashion story

for a magazine.

Uh, we were on location down in Miami

and all that mattered

was getting the right sh*t.

My life, my home town,

all of that was a distant memory.

Well, you were fully invested in the job,

what's so wrong with that?

The thing is,

I'm all my mom has since my dad left.

Did something happen?

She fell off a ladder

at work, broke her hip

at the exact time

I was doing this sh**t.

Now, her neighbour tried

to get in touch with me

but I didn't check my messages for hours.

And by the time I finally

figured what was going on,

she was in the operating room

having surgery.

That's terrible. Was she okay?

Oh yeah, the procedure went well.

But I didn't know that at the time.

- Yeah.

- So I tried to finish up

this job, but my heart's not in it.

And then the fashion editor

throws a tantrum

over one of my sh*ts.

It was the final straw,

I just...

Just walked right off.

Well, I'm sure anybody

would have done the same thing.

I mean, how could you focus on work when

you had all that going on?

It was completely unprofessional.

I mean, part of me doesn't

blame the fashion editor

for bad-mouthing...

All over town.

Well, for what it's worth,

I don't think they had any

right to do that to you.

Well, my mom's fine,

that's all that matters.

Now, how's your pretzel?

I'm about to go in.

Here we go!

Mmm...

Is that not the best

thing you've ever had?

- This is really good.

- Ah?

It's delicious, actually.

Oh my God.

- Mm-hmm.

- I rest my case.

Mmm.

Okay, so the readers

are going to arrive at

the studio for seven AM for fittings

and then they're going

to do hair and make-up.

Lunch is booked for 12:30.

And I have put together

a playlist of upbeat music

which will help everybody relax.

Great idea.

Oh, and maybe I can spritz everyone with

a ton of empowering perfume

just as they're about to step on set!

- Hi!

- Hey.

Did you need me?

Lunch for four readers plus the team?

I trust you're sticking to budget?

Of course. And I followed

the guidelines in the policies

and procedures manual,

which I believe you wrote.

I did. I just hope your boyfriend here

isn't pushing you in directions

you'd normally think twice about.

What do you mean "her boyfriend?"

Darcey never lets her personal

life get in the way of her

work, Brandon, you know that.

I can assure you that

it's all under control.

Can we just clarify what

you meant, by "boyfriend"?

Brandon, do you have a second?

I want to show you the provisional layout

of the Heritage Fragrance story.

I want to be absolutely,

100 percent sure

that you're happy with it.

Uh, fine. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

But... it'll have to be quick.

After you.

What was that about?

Um...

I owe you an explanation.

Do you think that we can

take a walk please?

Okay, wait, let me get this straight.

You pretended

I was your boyfriend

before you knew anything about me?

I'm so sorry, I... I know

how bad this must sound.

But if you weren't

seeing anybody, why didn't

you just tell him that?

Part of me felt like a failure

after my relationship ended with Brandon,

which I know is irrational,

because it's not anybody's fault,

it just...

I just couldn't stand the fact of people

gossiping about me in the office

or feeling sorry for me, you know?

You should have told me sooner.

I guess I just didn't want to

ruin our working relationship.

I'm sorry.

So you put the magazine

ahead of my feelings?

No! No, no, no, it's not like that.

Look, I...

I may not understand

why you did what you did,

but people make mistakes.

Breakups are hard.

So then, do you think

you'd consider going along

with it for a few more days?

- Oh...

- Just until the sh**t is over.

I mean, if we tell him now,

you know, it could ruin

everything that we've

worked towards.

Brandon, he's a powerful

person in the magazine world.

I don't need somebody else going around

spreading stories about me.

Though, on the other hand,

I am fed up with people thinking

they can ruin someone's reputation

just because they feel like it.

So what are you saying?

Ah, I'll do it.

But only for a few more days.

- Thank you.

- Hey.

Okay, there's just one more

teeny, tiny little thing.

Oh, what now?

I told Brandon that

I'd be bringing you

to the Midsummer Party.

I know, I know, I know.

But I'll owe you a favour next.

Several, in fact.

Actually, there is something

you could do for me.

She's going to be a hard nut to cr*ck.

Don't worry, we got this.

Victoria, it's so nice to see you.

Thank you so much for coming, Darcey!

And... lovely to see you

again, too, Jocelyn.

It's Joanna.

Oh, gosh, I'm so sorry.

How silly of me.

Victoria, we would love

to feature the Every Woman

lipstick on the September cover.

We've been hearing so much about it.

I'm afraid we've already

offered exclusivity

to another publication.

Ugh, that's a shame.

It would tie in perfectly

with the Heritage Fragrance

piece I'm about to submit.

Pierre Monet is your client too, right?

Yes.

His classic

Eau de Paris fragrance

came out on top

in my blind testing experiment.

How interesting.

We are looking to relaunch the scent

for a "younger" market.

I'm thinking of making it

my September top pick.

In that case,

I don't see why we can't

let you have an early sample

of Every Woman.

Why don't you let me know

where you'd like it sent?

That was excellent work.

See? You're a much better

negotiator than I'll ever be.

That was fluke!

She thought my name was Jocelyn!

Oh, don't take it personally.

I bet she's gonna tell Pierre Monet that

the Heritage Fragrance

piece was all her idea.

Oh, without a doubt.

I bet it would be different

if I was an assistant beauty

editor and not just a beauty assistant.

I've been wanting

to talk to you about that.

Never mind assistant beauty editor.

I think it's time that

you ran your own department.

I don't know if I'm quite ready for that.

Are you kidding me?

You would be a brilliant beauty editor.

Why is it that when it comes

to dating, you're fearless,

but when it has anything

to do with your career

you're scared of taking

the same risks? Hm?

And how come you always

think outside of the box

when it comes to work,

but when it comes to your personal life,

you're stuck in a rut?

So what you're saying is

we have the opposite problem.

Mmm.

Is now a good time to point out

that you've been spending

a lot of time with Nate?

Is he still on board with

the whole fake-boyfriend thing?

Yes, he is.

But he has me doing

a lot of favours for him.

Like what?

Like helping him out at Simon

Leary's engagement party.

Apparently Nate's assistant

is sick, and there's no one else

in New York that he could ask.

That sounds fun. When is it?

Tomorrow.

And with the cover

sh**t only three days away,

I should really be

in the office right now.

Yeah, but...

You do owe him a favour.

A big one.

Exactly. Which is why

I could hardly say no.

Ooh.

Well, I'm calling it.

You hanging out with Nate is good for you.

I'm telling you,

I haven't seen you

this relaxed or happy in years.

Cheers.

I just saw Nate at reception.

- What?

- Yeah.

He's early.

What?

Do you need time or should I go get him?

You can go get him. Thank you.

Hmm...

- Hi!

- Hey.

- Please, take a seat.

- Oh, thank you.

So, what exactly do you have me doing

at this proposal party?

Ooh, well, let me think.

Uh, you don't mind

lugging around some seriously

heavy photographic equipment

all afternoon, do you?

I will do my best.

Well, thanks again for doing this.

I know it's not the kind

of thing you normally do.

What, blowing off work

in the middle of the day?

No. No, it is not.

Um, can you just give me two minutes?

I'm just gonna grab my

things and then we can go?

Yeah, of course.

Okay.

Alright. Okay,

I've got everything.

Okay, promise me you'll call

me if you need anything?

I won't.

Now, go have some fun

and I'll see you tomorrow.

Okay, I just wanted to make sure...

In fact, I think you should

turn your phone off.

Right now, so I can see it.

I don't think that's a good idea, we...

I insist.

- Happy?

- Very.

Where's Darcey going?

She took the afternoon off

to help Nate out with an event.

She took the afternoon off?

- To go to a...

- Party. With her boyfriend.

I've never seen her spend so

much time away from the office.

Same! She's like

a different person these days.

Super happy.

Okay!

If I could just get

everybody's attention please.

Now, I'm not gonna bore you to

death with a big, long speech.

Just know, if you're here,

it's because there's nobody else

that April and I would rather

spend this beautiful, wonderful,

loving moment with.

Friends, family, colleagues,

we love you.

Almost as much as we love each other.

Thank you for being here!

So, if you guys wanna just

stand over there, that's great.

Now just pretend it's just the two of you.

And, you know what?

Can we just move

the reflector a little bit?

- Just like... there.

- Oh, okay.

See, now we're getting...

More use of that light, there.

- Mm-hmm.

- Alright. Okay, one more.

And, you know what?

Let's, uh...

Let's take one where...

Let's pretend Darcey's

the bride and I'm Simon.

And now, toast us with your champagne.

Okay, let's, uh...

Let's shake it out.

Left arm, right arm.

A little shimmy shake, just like that.

Okay, okay. Back to the cheese.

And a couple more!

Oh, big face, big face, big fun!

Yeah, wow.

Uh, I think we got it.

Thank you very much.

Okay. Next up we have

Simon's cousin and his plus-one.

I'm gonna go find them.

Hey, you're doing great.

There are some advantages

to being a control freak.

Control freak or not,

it's great having you here.

You know, there is a very

simple vanilla pound cake

over there with your name

written all over it.

You're so funny.

Hey, do you want to see

how the sh*ts are turning out?

Sure.

Okay.

Remember Simon's cousin and his girlfriend

and how intimidated they were

by the camera at first?

- Mm-hmm.

- Look.

Once they start to relax,

they become the most fascinating subjects.

Oh...

See, I love this one where

he's just looking at her

like he can't believe his luck.

So cute!

Did somebody say my name?

- Hey!

- Hi!

Congratulations, my newly engaged friend.

Thank you.

Congratulations, Simon.

I'm so happy for you both.

Oh, I'm just grateful

that the two of you

took the afternoon off

to help me out.

So, uh, how are you guys

finding working together?

- Uh... better than expected.

- Surprisingly easy, actually.

That's great, that's great.

These creative types can be pretty...

Can be a handful.

Hey, we're highly sensitive individuals.

There's nothing wrong with that.

Right.

Oh, by the way, I asked the DJ

to put a slow song on next.

I expect the both of you to be out there.

Get rid of this thing. Come on.

You know, for someone who can't relax,

you're a very good dancer.

I can do things other than work, you know?

Yeah, well,

I was beginning to wonder.

Uh, thank you again for today.

I mean, you made everything

ten times easier.

Does this mean I'm forgiven?

For telling Brandon

I'm your boyfriend?

No.

There's still a long way to go.

- I should...

- I'll just, yeah. Okay!

So, are the editorial jobs

starting to come in like you'd hoped?

You know, I wonder if things

will ever go back to the way they were.

But lately, I've been wondering

if that's what I really want anyway.

What do you mean?

I've come to the conclusion

that I just really love taking pictures.

It doesn't always have to be

this high-end stuff, you know?

Like, take tonight, for example.

I... I loved meeting

Simon's friends and family.

And giving myself the challenge

of having them come

to life for the camera.

Well, you're really good at it.

You know, I would have never

had you down as a people person,

but after tonight...

Well, thanks, I think.

Um... My rides here,

so I have to go, but um...

We'll catch up tomorrow?

Yeah. I'll walk you to the car.

Okay. Thanks.

Okay...

Alright.

Work on shop list, check.

Text... choices... check.

Build wardrobe, check.

Hello!

Hey!

Surprise!

Aww... The lisianthus!

Hey, well remembered.

What are these for?

Well, they're just a thank you

for the help at the party.

And, uh...

I thought I should make some

effort to get into character.

Mmm! You're getting really

good at this fake boyfriend thing.

Yeah, it's a skill

I never knew I had.

And you have me to thank

for discovering it.

Well.

Well, I can't stay long.

Gotta go set up.

- Okay, I will walk you out.

- Yeah!

Well, I'll see you later.

I look forward to it.

Looking forward to it!

- Nate!

- Hey!

Hey. How's it going?

Great, uh... Really great.

Good to see you.

Oh no! No, no, no!

So I was wondering, um...

How long have you and Darcey

known each other?

- Months!

- Weeks.

- It feels like it's been weeks.

- Yeah.

Because, you know,

it's been such a whirlwind.

Uh, hasn't it, sweetie?

Oh, it sure has, hon.

Mm-hmm.

Uh, don't you have to go to the studio?

- Oh, I do!

- Mm-hmm!

Uh...

It's been great

running into you, Brandy.

Likewise, Nathan.

Bye, honey!

You're going to love the cover,

let me show you...

Okay...

What we're working on.

- You have an update for me?

- Uh, yeah.

Wow! This looks amazing.

Yeah!

I think we did pretty good.

And...

If you crop it...

it looks just like a jazz bar circa 1935.

I love it.

Where's your assistant?

Uh, still sick.

Should be fine on my own this time.

Well, let me know if you need any help.

I'm practically a pro now.

I might take you up on that.

Looking good!

Here you go, you're all set.

Uh...

Is that the Every Woman red lipstick?

That shade looks amazing on you.

I love it.

That dress looks so chic!

The readers are gonna be

rushing out to get one

as soon as they see

how good it looks on you.

- Do you really think so?

- Oh, I know so.

That means so much coming from you.

I'm an avid reader of the magazine

and your beauty pages

are always my favourite.

That's really nice to hear, thank you.

Yes, it's so great to meet you.

Nice to meet you too.

I'm gonna do a little tweak, okay?

Oh, please! Yes.

I want to just show the earrings more.

Okay, perfect.

Oh, stunning. Stunning!

Alright, ladies, we're about

to start the fashion sh**t!

Now remember, be bold, have fun,

and remember the She Magazine slogan:

Real Fashion and Beauty for Every Woman.

Okay! Don't mind me,

I'm just gonna be taking these.

Just feel relaxed, feel comfortable.

- They seem a bit stiff.

- Yeah.

Maybe this needs a woman's touch.

Hey, can I just take

a second with the girls?

- Yeah, of course.

- Thank you.

Ladies, I know how

nerve-wracking this must be.

As soon as the camera

points at me, I just freeze.

I totally get it.

I totally understand.

I would feel the exact

same way if I were you.

Any tips?

Okay, why not try imagining

that you're out with your

girlfriends for a drink

and maybe... we're celebrating something?

You know, someone got a promotion?

- We're having fun! Mm-hmm!

- Okay.

All four of you look

fantastic, by the way!

You really do.

You ladies are going

to be an inspiration

to women all over the country.

Okay, can we try this one more

time? Let's give it a sh*t.

- Yeah?

- Sure.

Yay!

Alright, here we go!

Let me see...

Yes! Look at that energy, feeling fierce.

Looking stunning!

Now, a little bit on the side.

Oh, yes!

Now turn a little bit,

shoulder towards me.

Exactly! And over here,

oh, I love what you're doing.

Okay, let's move back, get you back here

and then just like, casual,

confident, just lean back,

feeling good. Alright.

Tilt your head down just

a little bit, catch the light!

Ugh, love that! Okay,

moving in for extreme close-ups.

You need the 85 mil

for the close-ups, right?

Oh, I taught you well.

Alright, little touches?

Oh, this is looking fantastic.

Okay, I think for this one...

Uh, one of you...

Uh, just your face

and whatever you're feeling,

something beautiful, something confident...

You know what's really

fun to do sometimes?

Have a secret behind your eyes.

Straight down the lens. Fierce.

Tilt your head a little bit.

Oh, that's gorgeous.

Yeah, just look down

and then lift your eyes.

Perfection. Alright, moving on!

Okay everyone, we're gonna

take a ten-minute break.

Please help yourself to some

pastries and refreshments.

Oh! Sorry.

- Yum, yum.

- Excuse me.

Hey, Nate. Just checking in,

seeing how things are going over there.

Uh, great.

I forgot what a buzz it is

to be sh**ting on set

and sh**ting with these readers

is actually really rewarding.

Darcey Harrison sure seems

to be bringing the best out of you.

Well, whatever she's doing,

long may it continue.

Yeah, well, if these photos

turn out as great as I think they will,

I might actually be open to doing

more of this kind of work.

Well that's great. I think diversifying

your portfolio is a good way to go.

Uh, great.

Uh, okay, gotta get back to it!

Okay, ladies.

Coffee time's over.

Let's get back to work!

Mmm!

Alright, let's go.

Hmm, alright.

Yes! Keep going with that, loving that!

Gonna get this focused this time.

On three. One, two, and...

Coming in, yes!

Three.

Yes!

Okay, now I'm coming down.

Yeah, there we go, just like that!

Good thing I stretched

before I came into the sh**t.

Okay, here we go.

Loving it!

You're all looking fantastic!

And coming in, yes!

Put your hand on her shoulder.

Yeah, your hand's perfect.

Your hand... Love that.

Okay, keep going with that.

That's great!

Hey.

Thanks so much for today.

I mean, I couldn't have done

any of this without you.

Oh, I should be the one thanking you

for reminding me how much fun

it is to sh**t commercial editorial.

And I think the readers

were really starting to

enjoy themselves at the end.

Yeah. How do you think

the pictures are gonna to turn out?

Uh, you know, we could go back

to your office now,

go over them together there?

Sure. That would be nice.

Alright. Let me pack up.

I think we're the only ones in here.

Is that so? Um...

- These are really good.

- Yeah.

Oh, this one could definitely work.

Yeah, it could.

Hmm, or this one?

When's Brandon making his final choice?

Tomorrow at three, here in the office.

Do you think you can make it?

Yeah. I wouldn't miss it.

Oh, just give me a second,

I wanna tell Joanna

what a great job she did

with the fragrance piece.

You never stop thinking about work.

That's not strictly true.

Not these days, anyway.

Uh, something else on your mind?

I...

I just want to say

that I've really enjoyed

our time together

over the last couple of weeks.

Me too.

- Oh.

- Uh...

Good night!

You saw him coming.

Well, just a second before you.

I guess we weren't alone.

So it seems.

So... where were we?

- Wait, Darcey!

- Mm-hmm?

Was it something that I said?

No, of course not.

Just... it's been a long day.

I'm gonna get an early night.

Hi.

Help! I'm on a date,

and it's not going well.

Oh, no.

Can't you just cut it short?

Maybe.

I had to pretend like I was

making an urgent phone call

just so I could take a break.

He literally won't stop talking.

His entire personality

is his food allergies.

Is everything okay?

You seem a bit flat.

Yeah, it's...

It's fine, it's fine.

Tell me what's going on.

I think I actually developed

feelings for Nate.

- That's great!

- Not really, no.

He clearly doesn't feel

the same way about me.

No offence, Darcey,

but you're not exactly

the best judge of whether

or not somebody likes you.

No, no, no. He doesn't, okay?

He's just playing this role,

the one that I asked him to play.

There's only one way

to find out how he really

feels about you.

You're going to have to ask him!

Oh, no. No, no, no.

I couldn't.

You could.

And it just so happens

that you're both going

to be at the same party

tomorrow night.

It's the perfect time

to tell him how you really feel.

Why is Brandon doing

the reveal here anyway?

He always does it at the party.

You know what is worrying me?

I sent Brandon three options for the cover

and he still hasn't

said anything. Not a word.

Hmm. He's probably just

caught up with the wedding.

Here we go!

Thank you for all taking time out

of your busy schedules, everyone,

but as you know, it is tradition

that we gather to reveal

and celebrate the most

prestigious cover of the year:

the September issue.

Taking into account our USP,

we've kept the cover simple,

sleek and effective

in keeping in line with our brand.

Now, without further ado,

may I present...

The September cover.

I think you'll all agree

that this image captures

the essence of She Magazine.

May we all continue on

for another dazzling 15 years.

- See you all at the party.

- Is this a joke?

- Brandon!

- My office.

What is going on?

Darcey, I'm afraid your cover

is not the vision we discussed.

Did you really think you could

go that off-brand without me

signing off on it first?

Off brand?

I ran every element

of this sh**t past you.

Not once did you question anything

except for the budget!

Besides, whatever happened

to "It's all yours, Darcey.

You've got full control."

Do you remember that?

Yeah, well, the buck stops with me.

You know, I knew there was something

off about this whole thing.

- It's so like you to do...

- I mean, can't you see

that all Darcey is

trying to do is save this brand

that you keep talking about?

I don't think someone

with your professional history

is in a position to comment on my brand.

You know what?

I just think you're worried

that Darcey's ideas

and meticulous execution

put yours to shame.

Do you really need your boyfriend

to fight your battles for you?

Oh, I'm perfectly capable

of sticking up for myself,

as you well know.

But since relationships

are all about sticking your neck

out for the other person,

I refuse to stand by and watch

you sabotage

Darcey's brilliant work.

Look. I'm sorry.

I know you both worked very hard.

But the bottom line is your cover

completely missed the mark.

Well then, if you can't get

up to speed with the changes

that this magazine needs

so that everyone else can keep their jobs,

maybe this isn't the right place

for me to be working anymore.

I know you're probably wondering

what you've gotten yourself into.

Yeah, you think?

I'm trying to rebuild my reputation,

not make it ten times worse.

This is all my fault and I should've never

complicated things by...

By involving me in this ridiculous

fake-boyfriend scheme?

No, you shouldn't.

I mean, that's clearly the catalyst

behind this whole thing.

What was wrong with just

hiring me as a photographer?

I'm sorry, Nate.

Maybe we can...

Maybe, maybe we can what?

Oh, I know.

Let's go back into Brandon's office

and you can tell him

this was just a little ruse

so that you wouldn't appear hurt

that he had found somebody else.

- Nate, I'm...

- I needed a comeback, Darcey,

not a wipeout.

You know what's...

You know what's worse, I...

I believe in our pictures.

- So do I!

- But what I don't need

is everything else that comes with them.

Okay, well, can we at least try?

No, we can't.

What am I supposed to put in my portfolio?

A magazine cover that never even

made it to the shelves?

Hey. Are you working late again?

Just finishing up here, honey.

Everything okay?

Uh, not really.

I need your advice.

Of course. What's going on?

I've met someone.

Darcey Harrison,

beauty editor for the magazine

that I'm working for.

And...

I'm worried that I've gone

and messed it all up.

Is she worth taking a risk for?

I think so. Which means...

Which means you're going to have

to tell her how you feel,

Nate. Right now!

Before you manage

to talk yourself out of it!

There's Brandon and his new fiance.

She is stunning.

And she's gonna need a lot

of help, being married to him.

- I'm gonna go get us a drink.

- Make mine a double.

Hi. Oh.

I can't stand the image

on the cover of the magazine.

I'm gonna pull the advertisement.

Hey.

Trent Dearden hates

Brandon's cover.

I overheard him say

he's gonna pull his ad out,

effective immediately.

What? How are we going to survive this?

We won't!

You have to do something.

I think I have an idea.

Mia! Hi, I need your help.

Hi! Uh, okay, yeah, what do you need?

Do you know how to control

what goes up on the screen?

- Yes.

- Good, show me.

Okay, we're going to take

Brandon's cover off the screen

and exchange it with one

of the images on here, okay?

Right now.

Mmm...

Mia, I know you're worried

about getting into trouble,

but I promise you, this is

for the good of the magazine.

Our biggest advertiser

is about to pull out

because he hates the cover.

And without that revenue,

She Magazine is in serious

danger of going under.

- It is?

- Yes.

Okay... sent it.

That's the one. Go, go, go!

What is this?

Get this image off the screen now!

Oh, and Mia. Thank you.

Mia!

- Trent, hi.

- Good to see you again, Darcey.

It's so nice to see you too.

Have you seen the new cover

that's up on the screen?

That's completely different

to the image I saw earlier.

This is the real cover.

The one that I'm responsible for

and the one that we discussed

at our last meeting.

It's our celebration

of the readers who have made

She Magazine what it is today.

What do you think?

I think it's spectacular.

Exactly what the magazine needs.

And if this image goes on the cover,

I'll be taking out more ads,

not pulling them.

That's so great to hear, Trent.

- You came.

- Hey.

Hi.

Um, you said it was urgent.

What's going on?

Come with me. I'll show you.

How did you do that?

Well, there was about

to be a major fallout

with one of our advertisers,

so I got Brandon's assistant

to swap the picture.

Listen, uh...

I'm sorry about the other day.

I shouldn't have walked away,

especially when you were just

trying to explain things.

I just... I got frustrated,

but at Brandon, not you.

I don't want you to think I don't

care enough to hear you out.

And I'm sorry for getting

you caught up in all this mess.

I should have never

lied to Brandon about us.

I mean, sure, I panicked,

but that's not an excuse.

And I should have never put your

reputation in jeopardy.

Darcey Harrison, congratulations.

Great to see you, Karen.

Nate, this is Karen Williams,

she's editor at Bliss Magazine.

Karen, this is Nate Taylor,

the extremely talented photographer

who helped me work on the cover.

Wait, you sh*t this image?

I did.

It's wonderful.

Well, at least I completed something,

unlike my last job for Bliss.

Oh, yeah.

That was unfortunate.

Your mother got hurt

in the middle of a sh**t,

if I remember correctly.

It threw you off.

I should have handled it differently.

Oh, Nate.

Life happens.

sh**t don't work out.

It's not ideal, but it's not unforgivable.

I'd like to give you a second chance.

Would you consider working with us again?

Of course.

Uh, if you'll have me.

Good! Well, call my assistant

and have her set up a meeting.

Uh, to be clear, this was a collaboration.

Darcey and I worked together

on the project.

I see.

I'm looking for a new beauty

editor for Bliss.

If you'd be interested, call me.

I'd love to have you on the team.

- Good work.

- Thank you.

Oops! Did I interrupt something?

Uh...

Okay, I'll make this quick

so that you can get back to...

Whatever it is you were doing.

I just want to say I saw Karen

Williams give you her card.

That must mean one thing,

because she never gives out

her personal cards.

She wants you to work

at Bliss, doesn't she?

Maybe.

And hypothetically speaking,

if that is the case,

it's not just me we should be celebrating.

What do you mean?

When and if I go work at Bliss,

who do you think's going to be

the new beauty editor at She?

- No!

- Yes.

- I couldn't.

- You could!

Well, I'll leave you to it.

So, you're going to apply

for that position at Bliss?

Absolutely. 100 percent.

The sooner I don't have to

work with Brandon, the better.

And Bliss? I mean, come on,

it's the bestselling glossy

magazine in the country!

Well, you deserve to work for the best.

Thanks.

I'm, uh... I'm really glad

that you decided to come tonight.

Yeah, on that note,

I want to apologize

for overstepping the mark

the other night at the office.

Overstepping the mark?

That moment we shared

before Brandon walked by,

it upset you.

Yeah, I... I wasn't upset

because you took it too far.

I was... I was disappointed

because I actually thought

that we had something going for real.

So when I saw Brandon,

I just realized that it was

all part of the act and then...

What act?

Your fake boyfriend role.

I mean, you were really going for it,

and then I just misread

the signals and it was

pretty embarrassing.

No, no, that wasn't it at all!

I didn't even see Brandon

until the last second.

The only reason I agreed

to pretend to be your boyfriend

in the first place

was... I started to like you.

Uh... for real.

So this whole time we've been...

Feeling the same way about each other?

I think so.

Uh, shall we?

You know, this is becoming

a regular occurrence,

for us, you don't think?

That's not a bad thing.

You know, before I met you,

I was wondering if

I'd made a mistake

moving back to New York.

But thanks to you,

I remembered why I loved

photography in the first place.

You've helped me, too, you know?

- Oh, yeah?

- Mm-hmm.

Did you throw away your notebook?

Never.

Do you... know how to have fun yet?

I think I do.

There is more to life than work.

Well, you know what

I'm not happy about?

Hmm?

You totally got me hooked

on those pretzels with spicy sauce.

I knew it.

Ah-ah!

I think that this might be

one of the best unexpected

combinations to date.