N.B. Spellings (if correct) are in UK English. All the characters in this story are fictitious, any similarity to persons living or dead is purely coincidental. The author neither condones or endorses any of the activities detailed in this story, which could well be illegal in certain jurisdictions. I'm adding (for legal reasons) that apparently if you're under-age you mustn't read this, so if that's the case go away and grow up.

Author's Note.

Unlike the first time this story was posted, I'm not desperately scratching away with my Quill in order to keep a few chapters ahead of my readers, for those who stay the course it's 86 chapters long, and I've recently had former readers bug me for those last six, but I thought with a total repost more people could follow the entire adventure, only this time to it's conclusion.

Chapter 11

“I have a problem in that I don't know what I don't know, I phrased that badly what I meant was, I don't know what I should be learning,” explained Marta, “there seem to be so many aspects about the process of running the Studio, and how the site works.

Each time I think about something I come across, I see there are possibilities to try new ideas, but because I lack experience I must be falling short.”

Valya said she should talk with Ivan, who could find her some mentors to discuss various parts of the businesses, but for now to have a short siesta until they had to head back.

Marta said she would have to jot down a few notes first or she would not be able to settle down and relax.

Later when they had reloaded the car and set off, the girls continued their conversations from earlier, discovering that the models did tend to socialise together in school and out due to their work, but they were careful only talk about it at home or in the Studio.

They headed back to the Studio as Sandra said she could use their help to unload the car in one go with so many 'willing helpers' accompanied by feigned groans of complaint from the girls in the back seat. Sandra's store room was just that, unlike Valya's little combined space, and there were two strong locks on the door, and Marta noted it had no windows, attesting to the high value of the items stored there.

The room had racks of shelving all around, with neat labels as to what went where, Sandra directed them as to the locations for all of the equipment, asking them to bring back the little plaque they found where the item was placed. All the plaques they brought back read 'location shoot' and she placed them in one of the trays on a desk by the door.

Marta looked in the other trays and saw they were printed studios one to eight, then there were some others that were blank, before she had chance to ask Sandra explained it was her tracking system, and if kit was loaned to someone else or went to an apartment she would write the details on one of the blanks. Sandra thanked everyone for their help and said she would treat them to a drink in the canteen, until Anna pointed out it wasn't much of a treat as all the food and drinks were free, which was greeted with laughs all round.

They found Kat's mum Zhenya waiting for them at one of the tables, she knew Sandra and Valya so Kat introduced her new friends, who her mum had not met before, then went on to tell her how well the shoot had gone, and what a nice outing it had been, and about how they had taught her some new English words. This caused her to raise her eyebrows and ask if the rumours she had heard were true about videos in English. She was startled to learn it had been Marta's idea, it was only then she noticed 'Models Personal Manager' on Marta's I.D. Badge, and inquired if that meant only her sister or all of the models.

Marta explained one model was more than enough getting her an obligatory poke in the ribs from Anna, but she was doing some research work for Ivan which she couldn't really talk about yet as it was just in the ideas stage, but she would say it could be useful for Kat to learn English as a good career move.

Despite Marta's age Kat's mum took this advice seriously as she had also heard rumours on the grapevine that it was a young girl who was the sister of one of the models who was stirring the place up with lots of bright new ideas, and she was sure it was the girl sitting across the table from her. Rather than go straight home with her daughter she had now decided they would be shopping for educational books about learning English to add to her daughter's recent collection, while the stores were still open, and the books available!

Marta said how she and her sister needed to speak to Dmitri before they headed off today so they said their goodbyes and went off to see him, stopping off in their office on the way where Marta copied out some questions she had made in her notebook, while Anna looked over the large chess set that had been set up on the meeting table and smiled.

Giving the list of questions to Dmitri, Marta said there was no urgency for the answers but what they had really come to see him about now was a number of words and phrases they had in their video script book which Anna referred to now and again as she spoke the lines out loud for him to comment on. He said that the grammar and pronouncation were very good, but explained on a few sentences how the emphases needed changing in order for it to sound right in the context it was used, so Marta added footnotes about the corrections.

Anna then went though repeating many of the earlier parts, with the intonation modified as suggested, much to the praise of Dmitri who said she was a quick study, they thanked him for his help saying how they were shooting the video tomorrow morning and how they would bring him some cakes, if Anna didn't burn them.

They stopped for a small burger and fries on the way back to the apartment as they didn't want to have a big meal due to the great picnic they had enjoyed earlier that day, they also made a few last minute purchases needed for the shoot in the morning.

An early start was needed next morning to be ready for when Oksana would arrive, it had already been decided Anna would wear a skirt with a short halter top with an apron over the top, she would also wear ordinary white panties with a small flower pattern which she would slip on just before shooting in order to reduce marks from the elastic waist band.

Her hair was to be in a pony tail, and she was going to wear almost no make-up, and had removed any traces of nail polish, to give that little girl at home look they were trying to convey to their prospective audience.

They did a run through before Oksana turned up in order to go over the lines and to have some additional cakes In case of any mishaps, Marta had also made some large prompt cards in case Anna stumbled on the dialogue, she wore an old skirt and tee shirt in case of spills but saved the apron to keep it clean for the actual shoot.

While waiting the twelve minutes it took the cakes to cook they replaced all the various ingredients to their starting positions and wiped down the table and all the work surfaces, and washed up the bowl and utensils placing them where they needed to be.

When Oksana arrived, John was with her helping to carry the mass of lighting equipment she required for this shoot, explaining he was only here as an assistant today but would take just a few still shots from the background for a promotional page on the website as they came out better than stills taken from the video itself.

The light stands were arranged, direct lights through diffusers or lights that were reflected indirectly off the walls or ceiling, causing Marta to note the large number of electrical outlets in the walls that she realised must have been installed just for that purpose.

They all sat down for a drink and chat before getting down to work, and Marta retrieved her video script book to go through how she had planned the shoot.

Oksana had a few questions, then got her video camera and checked the lighting from the various places she would need to be in order to make sure she did not have any unwanted reflections from any of the windows, and that none of her equipment would be in shot.

While Oksana made some last minute adjustments Anna changed into her simple outfit and was ready to go as soon as Valya had checked her out.

“Ready and action!”

“Hello my name is Natasha, I am ten years old, today I am making some cakes.

They are for my friends, we are going to have a sleepover.”

She confidently moved about the kitchen gathering together the things she needed as the camera panned around following her progress, bending low to get a fresh baking tray from a bottom cupboard, then climbing up on a step stool to reach something from the highest shelf in order to get in the panty shots they had planned.

“I have not made cakes all by myself before, I hope my cup-cakes taste good.”

She placed the mixing bowl on the table, and started to weigh out the ingredients, of flour, butter, and sugar then bent down to get two eggs that were on the bottom shelf of the fridge giving another view of her bottom.

“I want these cakes to be special, I know, I will add some juicy sultanas.”

She moved the step stool over to a new location to climb up and retrieve them from a high shelf, then 'accidentally' spilled some on the floor when she got down, which meant getting down on her hands and knees to sweep up the spilled fruit while the camera followed behind her. She binned the spilled fruit then washed her hands before continuing.

The mixing went just as planned with 'Natasha' dusted in flour and splashed with cake mix as she went on with her script as she worked. When the mix was ready she added a good helping of sultanas, then spooned the mixture into the little paper cup-cake cases which she placed on the baking tray then into the oven, as she set the timer.

Back at the table she scooped up some of the remaining cake mix with a finger and licked it off, then went back for more placing the finger in her mouth and sucking it clean, an action that could appear innocent, or erotic, depending upon the mindset of the viewer.

“Well now I should clean up a bit while the cakes are cooking.”

She placed all the utensils in the sink, fetched the mixing bowl, she then reached over as they had previously practised, to turn on the kitchen tap, the trick worked just as planned with the water full on it splashed up out of the bowl and soaked the front of her apron and the top she was wearing. She gave a startled yell turned off the flow and stepped back so the camera could see how wet she was.

“Oh no, I'm all wet and that water is so cold.”

Then as per script she removed her apron and halter top which were both wet through, then bent over to place them in the washing machine, as expected the cold water had caused her little budding breasts to stand proud, looking down she announced her skirt was wet too, so she took it off to add to the laundry.

She then looked down and ran her hands up over her panties, “Well at least my panties didn't get wet I will just have to finish making my cakes dressed like this.” she said, having caused the material to form a well defined camel toe during her inspection which the camera picked up on having been pre-warned about each of the arranged stunts.

“I better use the dish washer instead to clean up, or I will have nothing dry left to wear.”

This involved more bending down to load the machine and Oksana managed to pan round to get a side view as she bent over the first time, showing her budding breasts hanging down, then a rear view which showed as well as a camel toe, her panties had wedged into the crack of her bottom at the back.

Anna was pleased with how the shoot was progressing, and although her sister had been ready with the prompt cards she had practised enough so they weren't needed, noting the read-out on the timer she prepared the icing-sugar, cream, and other items on the table.

They had both studied hard to get the dialogue correct for this shoot, and when they had discovered how their target audience would be able to understand if they included some double entendres they had tried hard to research for words or phrases they could use.

“I have tried hard, I do hope the results are fruity enough to please everybody.”

She then ran through the list of items she had placed on the table as if to assure herself she had out all the things she would need, but in fact it was to to show off her use of English dialogue, and as a filler they could use while waiting for the oven timer.

They had found that the English term 'a bun in the oven' was slang way of saying a girl was pregnant, but they could not find a way to work that into the script, but Marta said it would be better to save it for one of the older models to use in a future video.

At the chime from the timer, 'Natasha' put on her oven gloves and removed the cakes from the oven, placing them on a wire cooling rack, then went to the table to whip the cream to thicken it for her cakes. She used a mechanical whisk with a handle she had to turn quickly to spin the wire business ends, so when the cream was not quite stiff enough she pulled out the whisk whereupon a large dollop of cream dropped off ran down her tummy and down across her panties – almost as if planned that way.

“Oh no, now I've creamed my panties, I bet they're all sticky now.”

She put down the whisk, looked down at the panties and then pulled them down, and thanks to the judicious use of Vaseline when dressing, they appeared as sticky on the inside as the outside. Holding them up she licked the spilt cream from the front panel of the garment while managing to spreading it around her mouth.

While everyone watched the action in front of the camera, Marta surreptitiously watched the expressions of the only man in the room, both his face and his trousers, pleased with the reaction of both.

“I love the taste of fresh cream, I didn't want to waste any.” Anna followed that statement by running her fingers through the remaining cream that had now run a little lower down her tummy but still shy of her glistening pussy, and popped them in her mouth.

Anna went over to the sink to clean up before finishing off her cakes.

First she cut a little cone out of the top of each cup-cake, and placed the tops beside them, then spooned in a little cream and replacing each lid.

“Don't you just love it when they are all gooey inside?”

Next she spread some of the sticky icing sugar on the top of each lid, managing to drip some onto her bare chest, which she scooped up and licked it off her fingers, before opening a pot of glacé cherries and tipping them out onto a small plate.

She began counting the cherries aloud, “I must see that I have enough, I want to make sure all of my girl friends each has her cherry.” but of course they had previously put twelve in the pot that morning, one for each cake, which she then proceeded to top off.

Marta's attention was still split between the action of Anna 'on stage' and the reaction of John, their one man audience, who she was fairly certain didn't understand much English, and was therefore a gauge of only the visual part of the video being recorded, she would also need to find out the reaction of people who could understand the dialogue to find out if her first script had been successful. She had the prompt card ready for the next bit, but was sure her sister would be fine, as they had both laughed to find that the English for a girl's private parts, and a young pet cat were the same word.

“I had better put these cakes in a tin, or my pussy will want them, she just loves cream as much as I do.”

“Well I must go and have a bath now and get ready for the sleepover, it's some of the girls from the Studio – bye for now.”, she waved and blew a kiss towards the camera.

“Cut – that's a wrap!” called Oksana.

Valya, John, and Marta broke out in loud applause, at which a naked Anna took a bow, among all the praise and congratulations of her audience.

Oksana was on the phone calling a cab, as she rang off John asked why she needed a ride as his car which they came in was parked outside.

“Ivan will want to see this straight away, it would be worth you learning English just to follow what she was saying, it was just so damn clever, this video will earn me the best bonus the Studio ever paid, mark my words; did you remember to take any pictures?”

John had the grace to admit it was only Marta nudging him a couple of times that reminded him, so he had about a dozen promotional shots, at Marta's suggestion he then took a few of Anna biting into one of the completed cakes and getting cream smeared on her face and then finally licking her lips, she winked at the camera.

Oksana rushed off in her cab, and the others started to disassemble the lighting equipment while Anna went for a quick shower, by the time she was washed and dressed there was a pot of tea on the table and all the kit was ready to take down to the car.

As they sat at the table Marta had her notebook out looking through the section which had various questions, seeing if John had answers for some of them or if he knew who best to help on those he didn't have information about. Of course some of his answers led to new questions, or new lines of enquiry which she would need to follow up later.

The subject then changed back to the morning's video with John saying how he felt the boot was on the other foot, now realising himself how foreign customers must feel left out seeing a video but not understanding the what the girl was talking about, when they saw a shoot where the girl spoke Ukrainian, must be as frustrating as him listening to English.

John checked his watch and offered to take them out to lunch if they all helped him take something down to the car, but Anna pointed out he probably wasn't treating them as he would claim it on expenses at the office, John pleaded guilty but asked what other job would give him such pretty lunchtime companions and pay him at the same time.

With laughter and groans they hauled the kit off to the car where it was locked in the boot before they set off to eat.

They were looking for a parking spot near their chosen restaurant when Valya's phone rang, it was Ivan asking where they were and when they would be back at the Studio.

Valya said how they were just about to have lunch, then she had some parcels to collect and they should be back by two in the afternoon, the chat continued a little longer as he asked her to fit in an additional errand.

This restaurant turned out to be Italian, another new eating experience for the girls other than of course the ubiquitous pizza, they chose to share a seafood pasta dish with a salad, Valya had a sort of pasta in meat sauce, and John had the dried beef and a pasta dish.

The girls got to try a taste of each of the other meals, and Valya suggested Marta should become a restaurant critic, which needed some explanation as neither girl had realised some newspapers had a column which would review local eating places, and you got paid!

After eating Valya told John their next two stops, he jokingly complained he had now been relegated to a chauffeur, at their first stop she took the girls into a store that had all the latest mobile phones on display, and they assumed she needed to sort out some problem with her phone or service. Speaking to one of the sales staff it was as if she had suddenly become royalty, he placed three different styles of phone on the counter for her to choose from, and she picked the model most similar to the one she already had.

After making her choice, he showed her the colours it was available in, she then asked Anna and Marta which colour they liked, Anna said the pink looked fun but Marta said she should choose the silver one as it looked more professional, at which point she told the girls they were selecting their own phones not a new one for her.

“Ivan said to bring you here, it's all prearranged and paid for as we run an account here.”

The girls were truly shocked by this, they didn't know of any adults who had a mobile phone where they lived, and certainly no one of their age would expect to have one.

“He wanted to be able to call you, without having to call around any of the people you might be with, and you will be able to call us or your family, I'll show you how to enter all the different numbers you need later.”

While the excited girls were asking Valya about their new phones, the sales assistant was fitting the cards in them and completing the details on two forms he had started before they had turned up, he then told them he keyed in to each phone the number of the other as speed dial one, and he handed each of them a bag with accessories charger and instructions, telling them they were ready to use, and thanking them for their custom.

Anna cheekily asked for John's phone number, which she keyed in as Valya read it from her own phone, “John you may bring the car around now we have finished in this store.”

This was accompanied by gales of laughter from all three as they stepped outside to find John holding open the rear door and saluting them.

A clothing store was their next stop where Valya explained she had spoken with their mum to find what sizes were needed for their young brothers and for their father, so they had something smart to wear when they went house viewing the next day. She explained how although their mum had several new outfits she could wear, she had spoken to Ella and offered to shop for these items to save their mum the extra trouble of making journeys all across town to collect this stuff.

Both girls were grateful for the thoughtfulness Valya had shown, for although their mum was better she was still wary of doing anything that would cause her ankle to play up.

As they neared the Studio complex Valya phoned Oksana, who said she would go round to her lock-up to meet them and help unload, so John drove round to a loading area at the back nearest to the equipment storage rooms.

Oksana's store was just along the corridor from Sandra's and had a similar strong door and shelving inside but that was where the similarity ended for the equipment seemed to be randomly stacked about the room, Marta made some notes in her little book.

When she had locked up they headed for the admin block, by now they were all wearing their I.D. badges as they entered the main building, John headed off to download his images of the shoot, while the rest went to see Ivan, who they found outside his office talking with Tanya his secretary. His happy greeting boomed across the open plan area, “Anna if that were a mainstream movie, you would get an award for best new actress, and you Marta would have the award for best script writer.” as he ushered them into his office Tanya lifted her phone grinning, knowing just who she should speak to.

When they had all sat around the informal seating area, Ivan was effusive with his praise for the video they had made earlier that day saying as how it raised the bar so much higher than he had expected, and that the dialogue was so clever and at times funny, and so well delivered. He went on to say how he wanted to advance the English learning initiative as rapidly as possible, having girls use every teacher they could find to fill their spare time, then send them to Svetlana for an intensive finishing course.

They continued to discuss the video, and he asked Marta as 'Natasha's' manager and her script writer what she had planned next, also if she was willing to provide script ideas for some of their other models, then Marta said how she had left some lines out of Anna's script as they would have been better suited to another older model.

“I had another idea today, but it was only a small one, and I want to apologise to Oksana in advance, as I don't mean to criticise her directly. The thing is I suppose there are groups of people working here with the same job, like lots of photographers, dressmakers, and so on. My idea was to see which ones in each group have the best ideas then see if they can all use those ideas.”

“In industry they call what you describe best practice.” Ivan answered.

“Yes I suppose that would be it, I think those people with equipment lockers who make videos or the stills photographs should see the system that Sandra has in her lock-up, it is really neat and organised, so she knows what she has and where it is, sorry Oksana but I think if she showed you, you could see how much it helps her.”

Once again it was a marvel to observe how this girl picked up on things anyone else in the company should have seen but didn't, it seemed as if more of his memos and directives were inspired by this girl than any other five people in the building.

As the meeting came to a close Anna stated how neither she or her sister or Valya had seen the video that Ivan and Oksana were so pleased with, so Oksana explained how to access it on the internal company network, so Anna, Marta and Valya went off to Marta's office to view the results of their work, noting that Dmitri was away from his desk as they went past.

Chapter 12

They watched it through once and high fived, on the second and subsequent runs they paused at various places, and made copious notes as to what aspects they could do to change or improve any future productions, though Valya said they were being too picky as she thought it was a massive leap forward in production values, she was even more impressed when they translated the script, and explained the jokes and word play, saying with a twinkle how naughty they were.

A short time after Valya went off to catch up on some of her other tasks Alina showed up at their door, Marta noted the improvement in her appearance, the acne seemed toned down and she could detect the nuance of understated make-up, a sure sign she had taken her advice to speak with Valya, her own kindly mentor on this issue.

Alina greeted them and thanked Marta for the opportunity to work on the research, she had found it much more interesting than her normal tasks, also blushing she thanked her for the 'other thing' as well. Marta not wishing to embarrass the older girl further asked what she had come up with so far, and Alina pulled a spare seat over to the desk, then showed them where on the network to find the folder she had been working on.

She went on to say how this was only a preliminary analysis showing data on the current top ten models as talked about on the forum, which she would expand later if this was the line Marta wanted to follow. The tables of raw data showing just the numbers were hard to make sense of but she had also presented the same information in several graphs that clearly illustrated the information Marta was looking for in a more readable format.

One graph showed model ranking by number of column lines written about her, and another similar one showing the number of times a models name appeared in the forum, she then had a selection of graphs showing data on individual models that had two coloured wavy lines. She explained one was a day by day 'model name' word count, and the other line showed day by day sales data for the same model.

Marta was sure when the charts were studied properly, they would be able to learn from them as she could see that the peaks and dips were related, either leading or lagging.

Alina said how the sample data she used for these examples ran over the three month period of May through to July, but she expected a long term graph of individual models, and a weekly one showing all current models would provide the most useful information.

Alina went on to say how up to now 'Natasha' ranked at seven on column lines, and five on name count but as her first set had only been released two months ago, the result was diluted by the time scale, on a monthly or weekly basis her rating would be higher, she estimated probably in the top three.

Anna was more surprised than Marta at this news, up to now she had been concerned only to be the best she could be, and although she said she planned to be their best model ever, she did not up to this point, have any way to actively compare her relative performance against how well the other girls were doing.

Marta smiled at her sisters reaction to the news, then said they would need to present this information to Ivan, but she expected it would be useful to proceed with the graphs Alina had suggested but to also extend the data collection further backwards so that they would have historical data to make the current data more relevant. Fortunately they were on the same wavelength and Alina understood what Marta was trying to achieve.

They talked a while longer and Marta spoke of other information databases she wanted to establish in order to list the skills and interests of the models in order that they could use that information, if it could be applicable to their photo or video shoots. Alina stated how that could be even more interesting than the work she'd done for Marta over the past two days, at which point Marta said they should go to see Ivan.

As they left the office they saw Dmitri was back, he greeted them and said how good Alina was looking today, a look passed between the sisters, then he said he had something for the girls, he produced two small sports trophys which he handed to them, Anna's was engraved, 'Best new actress', and Marta's, 'Best new scriptwriter'.

They all laughed about the awards, and wanted to know if Ivan had put him up to this, but he said if he told them, his source would shoot him. While Anna popped back to put them on their office bookcase, Alina thanked Dmitri for helping her on her recent work, and how she was nervous as they were now off to show Ivan, but he assured her that Ivan was a very approachable sort of person.

When they arrived at Ivan's office he was just putting the phone down after a call from Dmitri, smiling he told them it wasn't him that suggested getting the trophys.

He invited his guests to sit down and Marta told him of the great job Alina had done, referring him to the folder in question, he then went on to ask Alina some questions about how long it had taken, and she admitted although she had only started Wednesday lunch-time, she had worked late the past two nights and that Dmitri had helped a lot, as she wanted to have some results to show Marta before she had to head home.

Ivan said how he appreciated the effort she had put in and he could see a lot of potential in extending the data set she had started, taking note of her enthusiasm he suggested she move from marketing into the I.T. department as full time research assistant to his part time Development Consultant. A moment later the penny dropped, then Marta and Alina both smiled at this latest change, Alina thanking Ivan for the chance to do work that evolved from Marta's original ideas.

Before they left to return to Marta's office, the girls thanked Ivan for the phones, and he said it was no big thing, but he smiled saying he would need Marta's I.D. badge back, as she handed back the badge saying 'Models Personal Manager' he gave her a replacement saying 'Marta – Development Consultant & Natasha's manager', then said Alina would now need a replacement, as a 'Development Researcher' she should run over to personnel and he would give them a call. As the three happy visitors passed by Tanya's desk she winked at Marta, who then guessed at Dmitri's source.

Before the three of them split up Alina exchanged phone numbers with the two sisters, who enjoyed the novelty of adding to the numbers they had so far stored.

On their way back to the 'Development' office Anna phoned Valya to find out where she was, and what was happening this evening with regard to arrival of their family.

Valya said she would be along to their office by six, they were getting a ride back to the apartment for a quick wash and change, and the cab company would have a minibus waiting outside before the time the train was expected in, to take them all to the station to collect the family the moment they called from the terminus.

When they got to the apartment block they went to the unit where their parents and the boys would be staying and were impressed at the beautiful floral display of their mum's favourite flowers, complete with a welcome card for the girls to sign, also there was a bowl of fresh fruit, and the fridge had been stocked with a few basics for breakfast, there were even boxes of honey coated cereals the boys would like.

They had only just finished getting ready when Valya received a call from Ella, so they hurried off to collect them, on the way Valya said she had suggested in an earlier call that the two boys have an afternoon nap so that they would be refreshed enough to enjoy the train journey and the late family supper.

Valya stood back waiting beside the minibus, as she watched the touching family reunion as they all hugged one another, and all tried to talk at the same time, which in a way was amusing as they had been parted less than a week. As they piled into the vehicle to head back Valya checked to see if everyone would be happy with a Chinese meal, then made a call to a local restaurant to order a delivery to the apartment where the new visitors would be staying for the weekend.

Although Ella had been there before the apartment was a revelation to Igor, while just another part of a great adventure to the young boys, of course Ella was delighted with the flowers, and all the other little things that had been done to welcome them.

Two people from the restaurant turned up with the food order, Valya had just asked for a variety of dishes to ensure everyone could find several things they might like, at first Greg and Peter were dubious but soon found it to their taste other than the hot spicy dishes. Soon after the meal they were ready for bed, and quickly faded once they were tucked in for the night.

They continued to sit around the kitchen table talking for some time after the meal, until Marta saw that her father, after visiting the toilet was now standing over by the lounge window with a pensive expression looking out over the city lights across the park.

She got up and went over to stand at his side.

“Daddy I need to tell you some things about how our lives are changing and I don't want you to get upset okay. At home we were only your young daughters, but here we are... respected for our skills in spite of how young we are, you should see how Anna blossoms in front of the camera, she loves to act the part, but she has great ideas too, and here people are listening to the ideas I have as well. Back home outside the family we were just insignificant kids, in a small run down rural town without prospects, here we can be the best we can be, it's all because you've always told us to have faith in ourselves.”

He hugged his eldest daughter close, his face was wet.

A while later they went back to the table holding hands, Valya thinking how the man must be embarrassed to be seen in an emotional state made to leave, but he said she should stay and join in the discussion as she had been central to helping the whole family, not just his daughters, and how he wanted to express his thanks for that support.

After much talk on how the girls careers were progressing, and especially the events of the past week, they got on to the subject of tomorrows property viewing, with Igor freely admitting he felt out of his depth in the city, and would be grateful if Valya went with them if she could spare the time.

The next morning they all ended up together in the unit the girls were staying in, again Valya had been out for an early morning trip to the local bakers to bring back some Pampushki fruit-filled baked rolls for everybody at the breakfast table. Valya wistfully saw the genuine affection between the girls and their younger siblings, making her wish that she had got along better with her brother during their childhood.

When the property agent arrived punctually, a smart, but not overly dressy family were ready for his tour, and the woman called Valya introduced him to everyone, but he had done his homework by calling his initial contact Tanya to ensure he knew the names of all the people he was taking on this morning's viewing.

Prior to setting off he asked if they would care to look at another property, a new listing, in a location near the house they had been interested in, Anna squeezed her dad's hand, giving him a hint to take the lead, so he said they would view that one first, before the house that his daughters had previously seen.

Both Ella and Igor had laughed at the telling of the story of the earlier property viewing and how the man had been dumbfounded to find 'Miss Anna' was heading the search for a new family home. When showing them the newly listed house, he took care to note how each of them reacted to his patter about the benefits of this particular dwelling.

He observed the father's attention to minor details of the construction, and wrongly drew the conclusion that the man must be an executive in some type of construction company, rather than a more humble maintenance worker, which gave him an grasp of how well a place had been built and cared for. Having taken prior advice from Valya, they gave the man no clear signals as to their feelings about the property other than saying they were just going outside for a family chat, with Valya joining them in the garden.

Both girls stated how this house was similar to the other, but after studying local maps and speaking to various people, the one they had viewed before was better located, nearer to a school for the boys, the garden was nicer for their mum, and it was closer to some local shops, and a park with a playground. Marta then went on to list other features their father might like about the house, including details of the garage with additional workshop space.

Igor told the man they were now ready to see the house his daughters had seen earlier in the week, giving no indication of what he thought of the current house, when they arrived Anna showed her parents around while Valya, Marta and the boys kept the property agent out of their way.

She explained the safety aspect of no through traffic in a city where there were a lot more cars than where they currently lived, she showed them the master bedroom with it's lovely en-suite bathroom, then the two bedrooms linked by a shared bathroom she thought would be ideal for Marta and herself. She then went on to the last two bedrooms saying how the boys could have one each or if they still preferred to share, they could have a bedroom and separate playroom, with their own bathroom across the hallway.

Passing in the downstairs hall, Anna suggested the other party show the boys the views from the bedrooms upstairs, the frustrated agent couldn't refuse without seeming churlish, as Anna continued with what he considered his roll.

Ella was shown all the features of the kitchen that the girls had discovered, including all the built in machines, Igor commenting that they were all very good makes, and looked top of the range, after seeing all the ground floor rooms including the workshop, they went outside to view the garden where Anna said there was plenty of space for her mum to plant a flower garden, and grow fresh herbs for the kitchen, without encroaching on the boys space for ball games.

Anna could see both the wonder and the longing in her mother's eyes, and her father's lip biting hesitation, “Do it Daddy, Valya told you I'm set with the Studio for the foreseeable future, and Ivan set this up, also Marta has her feet firmly planted under the table, and there are many jobs for you here in the city.” Her father took on a look of resolve as he walked back inside.

Everyone arrived in the lounge at the same time, and Igor spoke up as Valya had advised him if he chose to lease the house.

“I think this would be suitable for our current needs, can you send all the contract details to the office for my people to look over?” with that he shook the man's hand, and asked if he could drop them off at the office as he needed to see some of the people there today.

Anna pointed out the local amenities as they drove past, and the nearby school that would not require the boys to cross any main roads, her mum noted the proximity of a small parade of shops a short walk away, and the park with a playground that the girls had spoken about. Previously Marta had shown them a map of the area pointing these things out, but it had greater meaning seeing it on the ground, and she had told them about the local bus links and about the nearby Metro stations.

When they walked through reception at the Studio the girls were greeted by name, by two of the staff on their way out, the receptionist made up visitor passes for Igor, Greg, and Peter. With a grin Valya suggested they should start the tour near to Dmitri's office, then move on from there to view other areas, so their father could get an idea of the operation.

Ella had been here before, the boys were quiet having been forewarned that providing they behaved for the boring bit in the morning they would have a zoo trip later, but Igor was looking every which way, taking in the lavish surroundings, that bore no comparison to the office block of the factory complex where he worked.

He nearly bumped into Ella as she stopped suddenly, he saw the office that had caught her attention........... Marta – Development Consultant & Natasha's manager.

Marta invited them all in explaining how really they shared the office as normally models wouldn't need one, her parents looked around taking in the main desk with the screen and computer equipment, a half filled bookcase with most of the books in English and stacks of foreign magazines it also held two small trophies. The room was light and spacious with a view across other buildings to the hills beyond, and the half glazed walls gave a view of the open plan area of the department.

They were about to sit at the meeting table, when there was a knock on the open door.

“Hi Marta, Anna, Valya, can I get refreshments for you and your guests”

Marta coloured slightly and thanked Karl, asking if he could come up with some cola for her brothers and tea for everyone else.

As soon as he was out of sight Anna informed her parents in a stage whisper how Karl and Marta were keen on one another, and the chess set, (which dominated the table) was for their first date, then dodged quickly to miss an elbow jab from her sister.

Karl returned with the drinks to a sudden hush, thinking they had been taking about some new secret scheme, not realizing he had been the subject under discussion, or of the complimentary things both Valya and Anna had to say about him, all the while Marta insisting she was too young for this older boy to be interested in her.

He served drinks and everyone politely thanked him, then he went off to finish the morning drinks round, just behind a nearby partition he managed to catch the sing-song voice of one of the boys, “Marta's got a boyfriend, Marta's got a boyfriend”, well she was attractive, and a chess set had appeared since that subject of common interest had been raised, but he was at times painfully shy, but both Marta and her sister seemed easy to talk to, though he had little experience of girls. He was sure she would never consider him as boyfriend material regardless of her younger brother's teasing, besides she lived many kilometres away.

After their tea Valya said Ivan would like to see them but they needed to see Dmitri first as his workstation was nearest, the girls and Ella immediately noticed the picture on the wall had changed from the naked rear view of 'Natasha' looking back over her shoulder to a clothed picture of thumbelina looking around a giant toadstool but somehow the words form the other picture had been transferred to this one. Next to that image were small intro pictures from each set, fully costumed with the set number underneath, and a starting picture from the video shot the day before also fully dressed.

When the girls caught Dmitri's eye he flicked a quick look at their father and the young boys, and Anna understood what he had done, thanking him aloud for having each of her 'fashion pictures' displayed, it was then Ella realised what Dmitri had done, mostly to protect Igor's sensibilities. Although he was fully aware of what his daughter's were involved in, it would be unkind to rub his nose in it with the more blatant images.

They chatted for a short while, Dmitri saying how everyone who had met Ella, and all of the friends the girls had made, had asked after her, when she had injured her ankle.

Just before they were about to move on, he told them the space between his desk and their office, was to be fitted out as a work area for Marta's new 'Development research assistant' Alina, a move Marta was amused to note he seemed happy about, as they set off she turned to her sister and whispered “Check”. The chess idiom was not lost on Anna.

Ivan warmly welcomed his visitors, saying how much things had changed since they had met eleven weeks ago to the day, he then enquired if it perhaps Valya could take the boys for a look around the scenery store to keep them entertained while they talked.

They sat around a large coffee table, first talking of Anna's rapid progress as a model, then on to Marta's sudden addition to their team as a Development Consultant, coming up with idea's and video scripts faster than they could cope with them, to the point Marta now had her own staff, which was cause for some explanations, and good natured ribbing.

Tanya came in with a folder and told Ivan admin had checked the paperwork over and it was all in order, just needing the signatures where it was marked, he thanked her and she went back to her desk. After a brief look he signed on one page, then handed the folder to Igor to look through.

He was surprised to find himself looking at the paperwork regarding the house they were viewing earlier that morning, and asked how it was possible, thinking it would take several weeks to complete.

Ivan told them the Studio were acting as a reference, and as guarantors, so as they did a lot of business with the property agency, it was just a matter of signing a few boxes, and setting a moving in date any time within the next six weeks starting from Monday.

Ivan then pushed across a folder which held several introductory letters to local city firms, giving the Studio as a reference for Igor as a well qualified and hard working maintenance supervisor, who had relocated to Kiev due to family commitments in the area.

When Igor honestly stated how he wasn't in a supervisor position, Ivan said he had done his homework before writing the letters, and discovered that Igor could have been due for advancement, if the company he worked for had not been cutting back, and that Igor had the skills and experience to take on the job with any of the contacts he had provided.

After talking it through Igor admitted he would be glad to leave his current employment as soon as possible, for there had been some rumours floating around about how precarious things were becoming. He expected when he told them he wanted to leave they would kick him out the same day, rather than have him work out his notice.

They were all in good spirits as they left Ivan to take their father on a short tour of the Studio complex, and to find the boys. They popped into the beauty department first, where the hairdressers offered to sort out their dad, a far cry from his normal barber shop, then on to the costume designers, where one of the staff wanted Marta's opinion on the cheer-leader outfit they had made, then onto the props department.

Andreas, the man who ran the props department enquired about Ella's ankle, then with a grin asked Marta if she was happy with the chess set, next they looked in on an empty studio so that Igor could see one of the sets, then moved to the workshop where the sets were constructed which really impressed him.

Not finding the boys in the scenery store, Marta retrieved her phone from her ever present back pack and called Valya to find out where they were to the astonished gaze of her parents, while Marta continued talking, Anna told them about the phones they each had saying she didn't know how they could have missed telling them before now, but it had been a whirlwind, non-stop sort of week with so much news to catch up on.

Valya had just arrived in the canteen, so awaited the rest them before they went through the line to choose lunch, at the table the boys were excited about having watched the men in the construction shop, and having looked at the castle and other backdrops hung in the storage area. They also discovered that 'Aunty Valya' was going to look after the boys that evening because Mr Ivan was going to take everyone else out to diner and they were going out to have burgers and fries.

The afternoon was spent in the zoo as promised, with the bonus news that they could make more visits in future when they moved into their new house, and the outing proved to be the best family day out any of them could remember. While the boys were entranced to see so many animals close up, Ella was assured by Valya that she really was fine with looking after the boys for the evening, then with a smile said the questions the boys asked were a lot easier to answer!

Chapter 13

Shortly before their parents were preparing to leave for diner, Valya showed up with the boys from their burger feast, hustling them into the bathroom, then she asked Ella about their routine and about bedtime stories, settling any doubts she may have had.

The meal that evening was at the restaurant overlooking the river, the maitre d' welcomed them back turned to Anna saying he was pleased she returned so often, lapping up the attention, she asked if they could have two of their menus in English as she and her sister liked to practice, he said it would be no problem, and he had the corner table reserved for their party this evening, with the best views along the river.

During the meal Ivan said he would send a truck with two men, in order they could move whatever furniture or belongings back to Kiev when they were ready, just to give him a day or so to make arrangements. Igor admitted there was little in the way of furniture that would suit the new house, it would mostly be sentimental family heirlooms and personal belongings, and they would try to help out some of their neighbours by passing things on.

Ivan advised them where to purchase furniture and bedding, then suggested to Ella when looking for curtain fabrics, to speak to the ladies in the dressmaking department, as they would help measure-up, show her the best suppliers, then make them up by the following day, in order they could get settled in as soon as possible.

Igor said how grateful they were, for all the help and consideration they had been shown, to which Ivan assured him they tried their best for all their models, and the girls families.

He went on to mention how Igor and Ella were doubly blessed to have two such talented daughters, and he expected the girls would both have long successful careers, therefore Ivan would exceed his normal bounds to ensure they were happy to stay with the Studio.

Although toasting and drinking at nearly any event was common neither of the men drank much, Igor out of habit due to accidents he had seen with workmen who got careless, and Ivan wanting a clear business head, and wishing to lead by example.

The next morning Anna, Marta, and Valya went over to the other apartment for cereals and tea, although Igor liked a more substantial breakfast he was in too good a mood to make any complaint. He was in a way relieved he was now in a position to get out of his current employment and start afresh, he had recognised a few of the companies for which he had letters of introduction, and he'd looked up some of the others in the local trades telephone book to find they had quarter or half page banner listings, indicating they were major companies each in their own field.

Not knowing anyone else who was local, he asked Valya about the six various businesses and if she had any contacts who knew anything about them. As luck would have it the husband of her neighbour worked in accounts at one company, and she knew they did maintenance mostly for large chains of shops, and most of the local school buildings, and she got the impression it was a good place to work.

Valya called her friend, then made a few more calls, and with the information she was able to gather Igor thought the first company they talked of, plus two others were the ones he would make contact with initially.

They were all returning home today, Ella had managed to borrow a case big enough for weekend essentials, but there was no room for the additional smart clothing Valya had got for them, so Valya said they could leave anything at the apartment they didn't need back home, as they could stay here when they returned while getting their new house in order.

They were all quite weary when they got back on Sunday evening, and had eaten at a café next to the station before heading home so that Ella wouldn't need to cook.

On Monday morning Igor set off to work, he clocked-in then went up to the supervisors office to break the news, but before he had a chance to say anything, his boss in grave and apologetic terms informed Igor he would have to let him go at the end of the week, though he would get another two weeks pay as severance. Igor stifled his laughter in a choked coughing fit, meanwhile his boss being even more contrite about the situation, said he feared more of the workforce would soon follow, even doubting his own job.

Workmates thought for a man who had lost his job, he was taking it very calmly, but Igor was not sorry to go, for he had no real friends at the company, they were just people he worked with, it was what he did to feed his family, or had been until now. That evening they first called Ivan, then Valya with the news, a moving crew were set to turn up the following Monday, so they'd have the rest of the week to sort out what they would take.

On Tuesday Nana Olga and Gramps were invited over for lunch, and they told them the news, it was a bitter-sweet moment, for although the old folks were glad of the family's good fortune, they would be greatly miss having their surrogate grandchildren around.

Ella said how much she and the children would miss them too, and they would write often, as the old couple had no phone, and she would arrange a visit soon after they had settled in their new home. What Ella hadn't made clear was that she intended to send them return rail tickets in order they could have a holiday in Kiev that she would organize.

On Wednesday the girls had arranged to meet Svetlana and her current charges from the Studio at a park café near her home, after the initial greetings, Anna took the surprised teacher off for a walk while the others talked as she and her sister had planned.

Anna explained to Svetlana how Marta needed to talk about 'secret fashion-world politics', and rumours of takeovers, and how it shouldn't take long. As they went round the park they held most of their conversation in English, Anna curious as to the new girls progress, and Svetlana pleased when Anna said the lessons were helping her career, and how more girls should follow, who may have some basic coaching before they arrived.

The teacher was more surprised when the ringing sound from the girls backpack turned out to be a mobile phone, as it appeared the secret talks had ended, so now it was time to join the others to order tea and cakes.

While Anna had been on her walkabout, Marta told the girls about her 'talk to the models forum', and how when Sasha heard of it from her mum, it was a new idea they were still working on, and it yet needed more work from the tech people, which is why no one needed to know about it yet. When the buzz on that settled down she spoke about the full English dialogue video Anna had done the previous week, so if any of them wanted her to write them a script, they needed to work hard on their lessons.

Secret Studio business over, Marta phoned her sister to gasps of envy and surprise from the three other girls at the table. At the walkers return, they placed their orders, then kept to safe subjects, including how there were now weekly deliveries of several American teen magazines, and some newspapers that came from the U.K. and how the two countries using the same language had different spellings, but fortunately they sounded alike.

Anna settled the bill, and Marta suggested the girls might like to speak to her sister about the latest gossip, they caught on and realised they had been dismissed, as Marta wanted to talk alone with Svetlana.

Svetlana had a feeling there was far more going on than she was being told, but she did not want to say or do anything to upset the gravy-train that had pulled her out of debt, and it gave her a far better income than she had ever previously earned.

Marta explained how pleased the Studio people were that she and Anna were better able to understand and converse with their foreign business partners, and it would help keep the work in their country. When they saw how useful it was, they wanted to accelerate the programme by using teachers in Kiev, but she had argued they continue with Svetlana for the intensive residential instruction course outside the distractions of the big city, and just use the teachers in Kiev as a primer.

Svetlana thanked Marta for intervening on her behalf, but was curious as to how Marta had gained so much influence, at which Marta explained she had made a few suggestions how to make the company better than their rivals, including of course learning English.

The teacher still thought that was a lot of additional expense just to produce a children's clothing catalogue, but it was money in her pocket, so decided to ask no more questions.

Some distance away Anna was describing the video she had just made, and explaining the naughty dialogue her sister had written for it, explaining how they had 'innocently' used all the double meanings. They were impressed, and each wanted to follow in her footsteps if the release of the video was as successful as they expected it to be, and when Marta was mentioned, Anna told them that her official title was 'Development Consultant & Natasha's manager', that she had her own office, and her own staff, 'of one'; that bit she left out.

The two groups merged for a while, and the teacher and current brood seemed enthused to increase their efforts, Svetlana bemoaning the fact none of the local newspaper vendors would get any U.S. magazines or publications, so Marta said she would have someone send regular parcels from Kiev. They said their goodbyes and headed home swapping tales of the conversations they'd each had, with the accompaniment of much laughter, as they came to the conclusion they had both grown in status, and gained a measure of respect from both their peers and elders.

Not wanting to use their phones on the bus they waited to call about the magazines until they got home, and Valya said she would increase her order and get Tanya to post them.

Nana Olga had been spending every spare moment at their apartment, and sometimes Gramps turned up as well to help sort and box the things that would go or stay.

Igor had told their much loved neighbours that they could have first pick of any furniture or belongings that they were not taking to Kiev, and Marta said Olga should have the curtains she had admired, for their windows were the same size, and Marta and Anna would clean them before hanging them for her.

By the Sunday a large portion of the children's clothing had been given away, and other items had gone next door, there were some things they would leave in the street the following day that would soon disappear if left unattended, which would help them clear the apartment.

On Monday Nana Olga kept everyone fed and topped up with tea, and as promised a truck with two strong men had arrived early to load up for the move, while Gramps kept watch outside over the things people could have for free, and the things going onto the truck.

Igor and the two men did the lifting and moving of the big stuff, the girls doing the small boxes, and Ella directed, as the boys 'helped' Nana Olga in her apartment.

Shortly after lunch there was a tearful farewell, as they boarded the hired SUV Ivan had arranged for them in order to drive to Kiev, following the truck which would park overnight at the Studio complex, then unload into storage the next day. The plan was that Valya would show them to the apartment block were they had stayed the previous week, where they would lodge spread across the two units while they set up home in their new house.

During the week even though they did some serious shopping, it only made a small dent in the account of the girls joint earnings, and as promised two ladies from the Studio design team came to measure up, then helped Ella choose fabrics, paint and wallpaper for each room in the house, each armed with notebooks and samples, though the girls each got a say on their own room.

The next day half the girls in the dressmaking department were machining curtains and seemed so busy Ella retreated to the house, which required a short Metro journey followed by a fair walk or a short bus ride, so Ella chose the bus. Opening the door she found lots of guys from the Studio workshop being directed by one of the designers, as to what paint went where, and what walls were to have which paper.

There were that many people working on the house they had even brought their own tea boy with them, who between brews did the fetching and carrying, the same lad offered to bring her a cup out to the picnic table in the back garden. Outside she found two further workmen from a local store assembling a combination garden swing and climbing frame so the boys would have their very own park type recreation in their own garden.

Ella ran that thought again – the boys had their very own garden.

If this were a dream she did not want to wakeup any time soon.

With most of the big ticket shopping done, the girls were spending time in their office working on video scripts, Igor had gone off for a job interview, and the boys were at a summer play scheme, where they had organised games and activities each day, and Valya would be collecting them after work before returning them to the apartment.

That morning Igor had been dubious about his visit to the salon at the Studio, but Ivan had insisted, so he showed up with his daughter's leading him like a man to the gallows, much to their amusement. Marta had instructions for the ladies working there.

“I need his hair cut and styled, but I don't want it to look like it was done this morning, and his hands and nails, but he will be moving between work-site and office, so neat but they're not too look fancy”

“Do I get a say in this young lady” he asked, but was drowned out in a sea of no's from all of the others standing around him, and thus was resigned to his fate.

When the ladies finished with him he was just as Marta had asked, looking in the mirror, his hair was neater and better styled then it had been, but it didn't look as if he had just stepped out of the barber's. Marta handed him a new jacket, that contrasted nicely with the fairly new trousers he was wearing, but he didn't recognise it as the one he owned.

After thanking the ladies on his behalf, she led him to the woodwork shop to get the new smell out by rubbing some fresh wood shavings on it, and so he could chat to the guys there and relax before his appointment that afternoon. His daughter's then took him to the canteen for an early lunch, where they were greeted by most of the people in the dining room as they made their selections. After lunch they took off his visitor pass as they went through reception then each gave him a kiss, and wished him luck as they loaded him into a cab, telling the driver where to take him.

On the way to the interview Igor reflected on his daughter's comments, “If you look the part and feel the part, you can be the part”, when did those girls suddenly get so self confident and was it rubbing off on him, yes he could be a supervisor, he had been in charge when several guys were needed on the same job, that was close enough.

The interview went well, he and the manager got on, he was familiar with the types of work they did, and they were friendly treating their staff well, and what with the company perks and benefits package there was nothing not to like about the position on offer.

Greg and Peter were sitting on high stools at the breakfast bar in the kitchen each carefully writing a letter, to Nana Olga and Gramps when their father got back, the girls who were helping their siblings, both held a question in their eyes. A wink and a smile was answer enough for them, and they rushed to hug and congratulate him, then he sat with the boys to hear all about their day at the play scheme.

Shortly after Ella got back she reported on the massive progress occurring at the house, and how the foreman said they should be able to move in on Sunday, at Igor's doubtful expression, Ella said there were people working in every room at the same time, and they were still hard at it when she left. That evening they tried another of the takeaway menus in the drawer, they all agreed the novelty was fine, but they loved mum's cooking best.

The following day, Friday dawned bright and clear, and Igor decided to head over to the house first thing, before the workers arrived to inspect what sort of a job they had done.

He was astonished to find workers on site this early, until he discovered that was the night shift who were going home soon, Ivan had asked for a quick result, and as only so many people could work in the house at one time, they were running around the clock to get finished as soon as they could.

This was quality work, both paintwork and papering were faultless, when he got to the boys rooms, Peter's room had one wall that was painted with a bunch of friendly looking dinosaurs playing football, complete with a row of pterodactyls perched on the picture rail watching, like birds on a phone wire. In Greg's room two scenery painters were working on an airport mural, with numerous planes in flight in the sky above.

It was only someone shouting that tea was ready that broke their concentration, Igor introduced himself and said how much he admired their skills, and how his sons would be really happy with their new rooms. He joined all the workers for tea, saying how amazed he was, and how much he and his family appreciated the effort they had made.

They talked of how interesting it was working at the Studio, bringing the designers ideas to life, how sometimes they would work flat out for days on end, then there would be a quite spell when nobody complained if they got on with some private jobs of their own.

There was no rigid clocking on or off as he had seen at the factory, some of the men left while others arrived, some, such as the mural painters wanted to stay to get to reach a convenient point at which to pack up, before they left. Igor liked these people and their attitude, deciding he would find a way to show his gratitude to the hard working team of people who had spent all this time on the house, for him and his family.

He was helping to move some trestles about when one of the designers showed up with two ladies from the dressmaking workshop with curtains for the rooms that had so far been completed. Although he was more of a nuts and bolts sort of guy, he could really appreciate how well they complimented the overall look of the rooms where they hung.

Igor went round the house to say goodbye and thank everyone, then headed back to the apartment, as he had promised Ella they would take time to look around the city that day. Later on they found themselves walking hand in hand through a park by the river, both reflecting on the extraordinary changes in their lives since that fateful day of the auditions, still finding it hard to believe their good fortune. Ella was still coming to terms with not struggling to stretch the contents of her purse from one pay day to the next, it had become such an ingrained habit being frugal, that she supposed it would take time.

This was the first time Ella had relaxed since they had arrived on Sunday night, as well as selecting all the furnishings, she had visited both schools that her children would soon be attending, in each school she was expected, and warmly welcomed. This may have been due to prior phone calls from a generous local business entrepreneur who often helped them out, so they were pleased to return the favour. It was less than two weeks before school resumed but they both said the children could start, and they would sort the transfer paperwork from their old schools afterwards.

During the week Marta and Anna had helped their mum, but they had also been in the office working on script ideas for both Anna and some spare outlines that other girls could use, these they would work on when scripts were paired with models. Alina had moved to her new desk, and was busy expanding the data correlations she had been working on, and she was also looking into a models skills database, which Dmitri was helping with.

Anna managed to corner Karl to ask if he would invite her sister to play a game of chess, as Marta would be too shy to ask herself, so she would appreciate the practice after hardly playing all summer. Later that afternoon a somewhat hesitant Karl turned up on his tea rota, asking if Marta had any chance to use the new chess set in her office, and when she admitted she hadn't, he offered to play, if she was willing and could find the time.

While she was stumbling for a reply Anna suggested Friday lunchtime, and that seemed to settle the issue, after he had left Marta was still at a loss for words as Anna said how it showed Marta he was interested despite her protests about their age difference.

Anna had, when the opportunity arose checked Karl's desk area for clues about what he was interested in, and had spoken to people in the department he worked with to fill in more details, she then dropped bits of information into her conversation with her sister regarding things that might interest a boy like Karl, and then when she saw him nearby would discus with Dmitri or Alina things that her sister liked, knowing he could overhear.

Lunchtimes, and time keeping in general were not rigid issues at the Studio as they were in other workplaces, and the web designer that Karl was currently assigned to had said with a wink that he needn't hurry back from lunch. As he reached Marta's office Anna was just leaving having delivered a large plate of sandwiches and some sodas, thinking that both Marta and Karl would have been to nervous about the 'date' to even remember to get any food in for their get together.

Although both parties were hesitant, each strangely thinking the other out of their reach, the date went well, as Anna had made sure to provide their favourite lunch fillings, and preferred drinks. As they played, they even had topics of conversation thanks to Anna's careful intrigues, another plus point was that they were both good at chess, and fairly well matched in their level of skill.

After a well fought game Marta won, and Karl asked if they could have a rematch soon, as he'd spent too much time on gaming rather than chess, now that the awkwardness had passed the conversation was flowing, Marta started to outline some of her ideas and some of the lines she wanted to research. Karl offered to show her the basics she needed to use the internet, and about the use of search engines, going on to say what other people in the department could do to help with her computer literacy.

Later when Anna returned she found her sister smiling, gazing off into space with the video script book open in front of her, and made enquiries as to if she had had a good game at lunchtime, and if there were to be further games, making it plain it was a double entendre. Marta was in too good a mood to be fazed by her sisters teasing, then after telling Anna of how she had enjoyed getting to know Karl, suggested they spend some time catching up on the gossip on the members forum.

Shortly after they logged on Anna gave a startled squeal of surprise, that brought Alina darting in to find out what had happened.

Chapter 14

As the girls and their family had been so busy with the move nobody had got around to telling them that the cup cake video had been released the previous Friday, just a week after shooting it, though a few stills were shown on the 'What's new' page the very next day to provide a week of anticipation. Alina told them how Dmitri and the others panicked at one point thinking the site was going to crash the demand spike had been so high, but things just slowed down, and so some members logged off to come back again later.

The girls paged back two weeks to note the initial member reaction at the release of the promotional stills, and blurb about the video, they then followed the comments forward, laughing at one remark someone had made about owing the man a beer who had first told them the rumour of a video made in English. It turned out that Dmitri had seen that entry because he used his member persona to reply to several people who apologised for flaming him, then they'd asked if he had the heads-up on any other developments.

They skimmed through the posts moving forward, stopping to read here and there until they got to the first entries from those that had downloaded and watched the video, they were delighted with the reviews, with none having anything but praise. In general they thought Anna's accent was cute, and the dialogue provoked a lot of discussion, it seemed the wit and double meanings were appreciated by her audience.

Although they had become accustomed to the crude nature of some members, Anna still blushed at some of their more graphic notions of how they thought she could help them in their own kitchens, and the number that wanted to lick cake mix off her body were legion. The thread of discussion then went on to speculate and fantasize about the sleepover with several of the Studio models, then various people debated about their dream line-up of girls to attend, and the games they could play.

Both sisters now only listened to an English radio station, and read many of the magazines that were delivered to the Studio, therefore they were able to follow the dialogue quickly without any trouble, with Alina only occasionally helping with the odd unfamiliar word.

Karl arrived making his afternoon drinks round in the department delivering tea and coffee, leaving the girls till last so that he could hang around a bit longer with his maybe girlfriend. It seemed Alina was reviewing the members forum with the girls, his English was very poor but he had tentatively said to Marta he would help her with computers if she would help him to learn the language, so it was a valid reason to spend time together.

Although he was only a trainee learning to write code, he was fully aware of the main line of Studio output, and it was strange to think he had seen Marta's sister and numerous other models naked in their videos and picture sets, but he had yet to even kiss Marta, let alone see any more than was revealed by her light summer clothing.

As he handed out three teas Anna wanted to know his opinion of Marta's game, and when there might be a rematch, it was only some time later as he left that he realised others had taken it for granted that he and Marta were an item, meetings for various activities had been proposed and pencilled on the calender by Anna. Marta felt somewhat railroaded by her sister's machinations, but as Karl was agreeable to the idea of spending time with her, so she began to think perhaps she wasn't too young to be his girlfriend, and should perhaps talk some more with Valya or her mum about older boyfriends, or just boyfriends.

As the afternoon progressed they caught up with the real time entries being made on the forum, that included chat about some of the other models recently released photo-sets and videos, noting the disappointment that none of the other videos had English dialogue.

Marta asked if Alina would collate some data on the 'wish list' items that were expressed on the forum, then grabbed Anna saying they were off to see if Ivan was in his office.

He was in, and was pleased to see them, and Marta knew why, 'Natasha' was the Studio's hottest asset, in a small way she had helped make that happen. The Studio treated them fairly, and Ivan had pushed out all the stops to aid their move, and to decorate the house, so she had not come to make any demands, she wanted to point out some observations.

They talked for some time, and said how surprised they had been when they found no one had told them of the cup-cake video release, Marta went on to say it would be a good idea to make an official statement on the website that Natasha had been learning English for some time in order to make the video, and how some of the other models were now joining in as they also wanted to please their fans.

When Ivan pointed out that the three girls had only been under Svetlana's tuition for the past eighteen days, Marta said how this first batch had a smattering of English before they were sent, and she had checked on their progress last Wednesday and they appeared to be doing well, though they would need to be home by next week for return to school for the new term the week after.

He told Marta they were stopping off at the Studio on Thursday so he could evaluate their progress before they headed home, if the experiment had been successful it would then be necessary to decide whether to take girls out of school for a week at a time for intense tuition or for Svetlana to move to Kiev during term time, teaching evenings and weekends.

Marta said it could be worthwhile for Svetlana to use one of the company apartments during term time, and let her determine how many hours to spend with the girls she taught depending on the rate she thought they could advance, it would keep her at arms length from the Studio. She went on to say she would phone Svetlana to get her opinion about living and working in the city during school terms, and if it was a viable idea.

After talking with Ivan about new lines of research she had set in place and those she was considering, both girls thanked Ivan for all the help with the house then left him to go back to their office. Marta made a few notes before phoning Svetlana, first she enquired how the pupils were doing, glad to hear they were trying their hardest to get through each day only using English, then broached the subject of the upcoming school term.

Svetlana admitted she had some concerns as to how long girls would be able to come and study with her once the summer break was over, then Marta said that if the company was impressed by the improvement of her current girls, they were willing to provide a city apartment where she could live and teach in Kiev during school terms for evening and weekend classes, then revert to out of town intense tuition in school holidays.

The teacher was surprised the lengths that this company was prepared to go to in order that the clothing models who worked for them could learn to converse with their clients, but she had seen how desperate her students were to hone their skills. Teaching girls for this catalogue company had provided the highest income she had ever earned so she was willing to acquiesce to their wishes even if it caused her some inconvenience.

Thinking on the fly she offered to escort the girls back to Kiev on their return journey to save the company the trouble of sending someone out to collect them, as this would give her the opportunity to see what arrangements they could work out for term time lessons.

After the conversation Marta discussed her ideas with Anna then wrote a memo on the computer to Ivan with her suggestions of how to get the most benefit from Svetlana relocating during the school terms.

Ivan was still working in his office when his terminal pinged that he had an internal office communication, he was pleased to see Marta had already spoken to the teacher and come up with an idea. The note recommended that Svetlana should escort the girls home on their return train trip, then teach from an apartment. The other possibility she proposed was if he could make a deal with one or both schools that were used by models who lived in the city, to arrange for lessons to be given in school, as it would make the headmasters look good, and they would get a free language teacher for one or two days a week.

Ivan admired the creativity and boldness of the idea, being win-win from whichever direction you looked, he got best value from the woman's time, his models, and perhaps a few others learned a skill they could practice together after lessons, and he earned additional respect from two local schools who would owe him a debt of gratitude.

While Ivan was drafting a letter on that subject Anna and Marta were working on a rewrite of her Bio for the website, looking how to amend the current version.

Natasha – 10 years old, lives on the Black sea coast, she has a dog and two cats, she likes western pop music, dancing and horse riding. Her dream job is to be a vet when she grows up. So far the lovely Natasha has one photo set for your delight – but if you like her as much as we do we'll be sure to invite her back.

They tried several attempts before they were happy with the result which they then posted in English, to Dmitri via the computer system.

Natasha is proving to be one of our more popular new models, at only 10 years old.

She lives on the Black sea coast, with her dog and two cats, she likes western pop music, dancing and horse riding. Since joining us she has been busy learning English in order to have more in common with her growing number of fans. So far Natasha has three photo sets for your delight, and she has recently launched the first of the website's new style of video produced entirely in English.

Marta then included an idea for a paragraph to be added in the 'what's new' section of the website which they had also composed in English.

Following the unprecedented success of Natasha's new style video produced all in English, many of the other girls have been working hard on their language skills, hoping to show all their loyal fans that they have more to offer than fit young bodies and pretty faces, so look out for more exciting new releases in the coming months.

Both girls were satisfied with how well the day had gone, and both for pretty much the same reason, the lunchtime date with Karl had boosted Marta's self image and confidence, and Anna was pleased that her sister had been happy with the results of her efforts to bring them together. They tidied the desk, readied their backpacks then headed off for the Metro ride back to the apartment block.

Shortly after the girls got back they were off out again to a small nearby restaurant for supper with their family and the boys honorary 'aunt Valya' where they caught up with how they had each spent the day. Marta even smiled through the teasing from her brothers on the subject of her lunchtime spent with her boyfriend, stating that they planned a rematch the following week, and that he was going to help her with learning about computers.

There was happy lively conversation throughout the meal, but the boys were tiring towards the end and were leading on the way back for once wanting to go to bed, so Marta took the opportunity to hang back and get her mum's attention indicating that she wanted to talk privately.

Ella was grateful that her eldest daughter now felt she could confide in her on the subject of her first boyfriend, something she had not spoken of with her own mother. Having met the boy a few times, and with the latest office gossip provided by Valya just before Marta's return that evening she felt well informed. Marta told her in more detail how well the day had gone, and that it had been easier than she had expected talking to the older boy, though she explained Anna had mentioned a number of things that Karl liked.

Ella said how girls mature quicker than boys in both mind and body, so she was not worried about the lad's age, and providing he treated her with respect and didn't expect her to become more intimate that she was comfortable with, then there shouldn't be any reason why they couldn't go out on dates together. Marta was quite surprised how much her mother knew about Karl, including the fact he was at night school two days a week in order to gain some qualifications relating to the computer skills he was learning at work.

By the time they got to sleep that night everyone had good reasons to be happy, the boys having a great adventure, their sisters both having rising careers which they enjoyed, along with Marta's new status as a girl with an older boyfriend, for their parents, a new life and a new home in the city without financial worries, or the threat of unemployment.

Valya had reasons to be happy as well, her newest model was the biggest star at the Studio, which reflected in her latest bonuses, she had also had additional payments for the hours spent on chaperone duties so had been told she was due some extra time off when the girls returned to school. As her boyfriend would be back from his travels soon they could spend some time together, and maybe holiday on the coast.

Ella knew that Valya had plans for the weekend, but she and her family would be busy at the house, which is where they all headed after breakfast, to see if the foreman's estimate of a Sunday move was on the cards. They were all impressed by how good the house was looking, most of the rooms were finished, and a crew of cleaners were following up behind the decorators lifting the protective sheets laid over the floors to vacuum and polish.

Even the gardens front and back had been mown and tidied-up, which is where they had retreated to stay clear from the hive of activity.

Greg and Peter immediately headed for the swing and climbing frame combination while the rest sat on the garden furniture as the lead designer chatted with them and a young apprentice brought them tea. Ella watching her boys enjoy their new play frame thanked Igor, asking when he had found the time to buy it, only to be told he thought she had ordered it. The designer guy Philip said that was one of Ivan's ideas, though it was decided not to do any more with the garden other than tidy it because they assumed Ella would have her own ideas of what she wanted to do with all the space available.

Philip said they were a little ahead of schedule, and as if to prove his point two members of the clean-up team came out in quick succession to state another two rooms had been signed off as complete and closed up. Igor said how he had visited early the previous morning and had been impressed by the quality of the workmanship, and the pride that crew took in their work, he also noted how methodical they were, something he had found lacking among the dispirited people at his last place of employment.

A short time later they were told the upstairs rooms were finished, so Philip suggested he should take a walk through with them in case there was any snagging to do before they started bringing in the furniture. At the base of the stairs everyone removed their shoes to avoid treading any dirt into the area that had just been cleaned, it was quite common to remove your shoes on entering someone's home anyway, but not a building site!

They started with the youngest, Peter was stunned into silence as he surveyed the painted mural of the improbable football game, then asked, “Is this really my bedroom? Wow it must be the best bedroom in the whole world”. He then stepped closer pointing out and naming various dinosaurs that had been based on real creatures, others had been painted with a measure of artistic licence.

Greg was just as pleased with his own room, and was able to name several aircraft types and name the air-lines from the tail logos visible on the planes lined up at the terminal, all the others were impressed by the detail and comic vignettes included in the scenes.

They had a cursory look at the boys bathroom across the hall, then moved on to see Anna and Marta's rooms, which were connected via their shared bathroom. They were painted and papered in subtle pastels and they each had cork notice boards adjacent to the places they planned to have their respective desks, in order to avoid spoiling the decoration.

The master bedroom with en-suite was the last stop on the tour upstairs, it was tastefully finished, papered throughout in a classic older style that Ella had settled on with the help of some of the team from the Studio, she and Igor were well pleased with the result.

By the time they returned to the ground floor, the last of the decorators were loading-up ready to leave, and the cleaners were hot on their tail with only a few rooms left, the site foreman reckoned that they would hand the house over after lunch, he then went over to organise the last of the workers. Hearing the word lunch Igor checked his watch, then asked Philip if he would like to join them for a bite to eat, he agreed, and said there was a reasonable café in the local parade of shops a short walk away on the main road.

Shortly after they had placed their orders Marta was diving into her backpack to locate her phone, it was Ivan calling to say he had been informed of progress, and did they want the guys with the truck to start moving their furniture out of storage today. Marta passed the phone to her dad so he could sort it, after a brief conversation they were set for a busy afternoon moving in their original belongings that had not gone to the apartment, plus the new beds and other furniture they'd recently bought that had been stored at the Studio.

The rest of the day was hectic, but the staff who had been cleaning stayed on to help them move their stuff into the house, Ella remained in the front hallway to direct where the various items belonged, and the boys did as they were told and played in the garden.

By six-thirty the truck was empty, and thanks to a timely call from Marta several pizzas arrived from a local takeaway, she had also given one of the men with a car the money to collect some cold beers for the crew, and some soft drinks. All their helpers appreciated the impromptu garden party, toasting the family and wishing them well in their new home.

After everyone had left Igor praised the girls for their thoughtfulness in looking after the people who had helped them and said he intended to do something for all those who had worked on the house, he just didn't know what it would be yet. That night they went back to the apartments for the last time, they would move themselves in on Sunday as planned.

Sunday as expected was mayhem getting the house in order, and that night they each went to sleep in their new rooms in their new home, though the following morning young Peter was found sleeping with his older sibling.

Chapter 15

Revising scripts, and preparing for a party.

When Marta and Anna arrived at the studio on Monday they went to their office first to drop off their bags, then went to find Tanya and said how they needed a list of all the wonderful people who had helped with the move from the truck drivers, designers, and seamstresses, right through to the cleaners and site tea boy. Tanya realised the girls wanted to thank everyone so she said she would contact the head of each department to compile the list.

Next they went in to see Ivan, they both gave him a kiss and thanked him for all he had done then gave him a thank-you note written by the boys saying how much they loved the climbing frame. He was touched by the note, saying it was nice that the boys were as well mannered as their big sisters.

Alina was the third person on their schedule, Marta asked about the information database to list the skills and interests of the models, and if she had gathered any data yet as they wanted to know if it listed the schools they were attending. Alina had started on it, but it did not have a data field for that, only clubs or organisations, so she would add that to her list of amendments, and in the mean time they should speak to Tanya if they wanted to know which schools girls attended.

Rather than go back Marta phoned, saying how they wanted to find out which girls went to the school they had enrolled for, in order to speak to those they might be sharing classes with, so they could get an idea about the syllabus and get a take on the place from existing pupils. Tanya said she would be coming over to the I.T. department later, so would drop in a list, and by then she should have the other list ready Marta had asked for.

When she came off the phone she found Anna was working on the abandoned video script for which the cheerleader costume had been made. The idea she was thinking of was to link back to her first video, dropping the name of another model – who was at the sleep-over, one the same size as she was, and that 'Natasha' had been loaned the costume with the hope of auditioning for the squad. She could do the cheesy routines, get all sweaty, then go and shower, the plus point was the other girl could also do a video with the same outfit, or if she couldn't speak enough English, she could do a photo set in the costume, so members might buy a themed link of two videos, or a video and photo set of both models.

Marta liked the concept and between them they sort to expand it with additional links and themes which might encourage members to download sets from girls they may not have sampled previously. Their idea fest was interrupted when Karl arrived on the mid-morning refreshment run, although there were kitchenette areas in each department, the geeks had come up with the tea rounds, because sometimes they got carried away with their work and forgot about things like eating or drinking.

Apart from Karl's personal interest, both girls were a hot topic among anyone who worked at the studio complex, so although he had heard, he had to ask how the move had gone over the weekend, then talked about some of the things that might interest them in their new neighbourhood. This lead the conversation on to where Karl lived, and it turned out he was only one station along on the Metro line from their new house. Before he left to get on with his work he gave Marta a list of the people in the department who had agreed to help with her computer literacy, with their specialisation, and a brief note as to what that meant in layman's terms.

They continued working on the link ideas, then Anna typed as Marta detailed the outlines of the scheme they then saved the document before heading off to see Ivan on the way to lunch. As they approached his office Tanya said she had both lists printed out, and had not stopped by earlier as she saw Marta had a visitor, while winking at the blushing girl.

Marta thanked her, then they went in to see Ivan to explain about the linked or themed photo-sets and videos, and pointed out the document they had written about it, he was straight on the phone to the costume department to find out which girls were the closest in size to Anna. He then called Tanya to ask if any of the girls they'd listed spoke English, which none of them did, so they would only be able to do an old style video, which he was not so keen about, or a photo set.

Anna said if he read the proposal, near the end they had suggested two girl photo sets or videos like they had seen on other sites, though that meant splitting the royalties between two girls, they might sell more as the fans of both girls were likely to be interested, and it was possible they could then buy sets from the other girl if they hadn't before.

Ivan called the costume department again, naming the three girls who were currently away with Svetlana learning English, asking how long it would take to make up a cheerleader outfit for one of the girls to match the one Anna had, and was told they could do one or all three in just a couple of hours as they had both the pattern and the fabric available.

Ivan thought they should have a test on Thursday, the girl who spoke the best English got to make an English video with Anna, he then asked if they could write a two girl script and shoot it before school started next Wednesday, as it would be good to keep it in the can for release after school had started when they had less models available.

Marta grinning said although it was impossible, they would both be ready by Thursday, and make up cue cards for the other girl to help her with the lines, and she would arrange the storyline to have breaks so that they didn't need to do the whole shoot in one hit.

After lunch they roughed out a storyline, then set to work on the dialogue trying to include the same sense of fun and mischief they had achieved in their first video production, but when they began to run out of steam Marta called for a break, saying it would be better to start again tomorrow after they had slept on it.

One point they had realised was as the other model chosen would be older and bigger than Anna, so they would say in the script that the costume loaned to her was one someone else on the squad had outgrown, and that would account for both girls being in uniform, as opposed to their original idea for the cheerleader audition script.

Anna decided to search through some of the disks they had not yet looked at from rival sites to see if they would provide any inspiration, and Marta went to see Dmitri to mull over a few ideas she was thinking about. He told her the 'talk to the models' forum was nearly ready for in house beta testing, and asked wearily if her next idea would take up so much time, but she realised he was teasing her.

The computer kit on and around Dmitri's workstation was frequently changing, but she saw he currently had two different sized screens working at the moment which brought her back to an earlier idea, and she asked if he could display one of Natasha's photo sets on the smaller screen in the same way members would see it, then she asked him to do the same on the new larger screen.

Dmitri did as she asked, then went on to explain about pixels and resolutions in answer to her questions about why the pictures stayed the same size with a broader black margin on the bigger monitor, and using the image viewer to increase the size would make it blur or look blocky. After a moments thought she asked about the resolution of the cameras used in the studio, which then lead to why the resolution was reduced for the sets that members downloaded.

“Let me see if I have this right”, said Marta, “pictures are taken in very high res, then they are sorted, then uploaded as sets in a lower resolution due to the speed of member internet connections, but I'm always reading how quickly things change with computing, and if many of our members are in the USA then maybe they have big screens and faster internet”

Dmitri saw where Marta was heading, and they discussed the possibilities of providing sets and videos in a choice of standard or high resolution, this lead to Marta's third visit to see Ivan that day, this time with Dmitri. Ivan liked the idea of selling the high res-material at a small premium, as it would cost so little to do, and when he asked why the I.T. geeks had not suggested it was told they were too busy implementing Marta's other ideas to come up with any new ones of their own. After the laughter subsided, the two men spoke about hosts, server farms, together with other subjects that passed over her head, at that point Marta excused herself.

As Marta approached her office she was just in time to hear Karl's disappointed voice as he was talking to her sister, so she crept up behind him covering his eyes as she asked him to guess who it was in a faked sultry voice. He caught on but played the game, saying she should unhand him before his smart and beautiful girlfriend returned to her office.

Smart, she was used to, but beautiful, and girlfriend included in the sentence was a shock which earned him a kiss on the cheek, which surprised all three people in the room, but Marta managed to maintain her cool and ask when her 'boyfriend' was next available to be beaten at chess. They settled on lunchtime the following day then chatted a while longer before he had to get back to the desk bound part of his job.

Marta told Anna about the high resolution idea and Anna's first response was to ask if her existing sets would be re-released, and if someone had a set already could they get the upgrade for just the cost difference, between normal and high, a question that was passed on to Dmitri to work out with the sales team.

Anna then decided to call Svetlana, and told her that apart from her final appraisal report on the girls, there would be a contest between them on Thursday, with the winner making a short video presentation for one of the company's clients. Svetlana asked if she needed to speak to them, which she did, when the girls said their teacher had left the room Anna told them about the video opportunity, but reminded them if they had all done well they would be ahead of other girls for both making the new style videos and with involvement in the new forum, on that cheery note she left them to continue their studies.

They next looked over the list Tanya had given them with details of studio girls who were at the school they would be attending, she had included the girls working names in brackets so they hit the web site model introduction page. They then looked up each of the eight girls, ignoring the fantasy biography details, but taking note of their ages and professional experience as they expected they would be socialising together once school started.

Anna suggested they speak to the scheduling manager to find out if any of them would be in this week, and after a brief call they found Gina was in studio four that afternoon in her alter-ego persona of Elya, her working name. Anna found the extension for that studio, and phoned through, it was answered by Carina a make-up lady she had met a few times, who told her the set was just about done and to come on over if they wanted to see Gina.

They arrived to find Gina changing into jeans and T-shirt, she was a rounded girl, not over-weight, just carrying a little baby fat as girls sometimes did on the cusp of changing on the way to adolescence where it would get used up in a sudden growth spurt.

What was now a little flabbiness of faux breasts, would soon transform into firm pertness as puberty showed it's hand, which the members of the studio's various web sites were so keen to follow.

Sandra who had been shooting the set welcomed them, as did Carina who was trying to get Gina to sit down so she could remove her make-up. This girl was also relatively new to modelling, having been with the studio just over a year, she had started in the middle of the last summer break when her family had relocated across the city, and she had been recruited by one of the other models she had moved close to, who went to the nearby school, the one that they would all be attending shortly.

Anna immediately felt a liking for the other girl, and was sure they would become friends, and as soon as Carina was done the youngsters set off for the canteen for some sodas and a table where they could sit and talk. Gina knew of both sisters through gossip in the studio, but had never seen either of them around before, being glad they had sought her out to learn about her school, which they would be going to, starting this coming term.

They had been there with their mum but had only met the headteacher and seen a few of the empty classrooms, now they were getting first hand knowledge from an insider about the teachers, the various social structures, important events, as well as activities and clubs in which they could participate. Marta was pleased her interests in chess and folk dancing were covered, but the range of clubs and events was far more diverse than that available at their previous school.

Gina said how the studio girls always looked out for one another, and despite their varying ages socialised in and out of school, which puzzled some of their class mates who were of course unaware of the girls connections, they thought this was fun as it gave them an air of mystery. Shown the list Gina told them a little about the other seven girls, saying how their shared secret bonded them together, but they had a very strict rule never to discuss anything about the studio or modelling at school, only at their own homes, or when in the studio itself.

Gina offered to call the rest of the girls to see if they could all meet up for lunch in the canteen one day this week, Anna and Marta thought this was a great idea and thanked her for finding a simple way for them to meet the others on the list. Shortly afterwards they left for home, but they took a different route to Gina, as it seemed they lived on opposite sides of the school catchment area.

The girls got home to find everyone busy, their dad was hanging pictures between bouts of emptying boxes, and their mum was in the kitchen baking and cooking while the boys were at the table reading while listening to the English broadcast radio station. Igor came into the room to greet his daughters, and said the boys should go and play in the garden and enjoy the summer evening, as next week they would be back at school.

Anna and Marta recognised the ruse as a diversion so they could discuss Studio business, their father placed an envelope on the table, it was the latest income statement, a figure which dwarfed all their previous cheques, mainly due to the enormous demand for the cup cake video. There was a breakdown of the earnings, with a very healthy contribution in recognition of Marta's recent work at the studio, with a covering letter that praised both girls, with remarks about how their efforts had raised the profile of many of the Studio web sites, and the future direction of the output the company would produce.

They were both stunned by the effusiveness of the letter, until the spell was broken by Anna asking if they and the boys could now have a bicycle each, and a car for their dad. Her parents laughed, Igor joking if they continued as they were, it would be a limousine to visit their country house on weekends, and in reality it was not so far from the truth.

After some more talk about the current situation, Marta got out the list naming the people who had helped with their move into the new house, a grand total of sixty-three men and women from most of the departments at the studio. Igor said he and Ella had thought it would be nice to have a party in the garden and invite them along with their partners and children as a thank-you for the effort they had shown.

Marta said they should include Ivan and Tanya, as well as Dmitri, Valya and John as they were all people that they worked closely with at the studio. Anna hugged her sister to avoid any jabs as she said that Karl should come too, which caused more laughing.

Ella was concerned if she would have time to write that many invites in time for the week-end, but Marta said she would do it on the laptop, then Karl would show her how to personalise each copy, blushing as she said it.

Within a short time Marta had typed out a draft of the invite, while they talked about what they would need, Anna said she would talk to the company that catered for big meetings at the office, but to make it more personal her mum could do some of the baking, and they could have a bouncy castle for the children that turned up.

By lunchtime the following day with Karl's help properly headed personalised invites had been printed off and delivered to everyone on the now extended list, as the studio was open despite it being a national holiday, the 24th of August – Ukrainian Independence Day.

Dear *******

Anna and Marta on behalf of our parents Igor and Ella and our brothers Greg and Peter would like to thank you for the help you extended us in our move into our new home here in Kiev. As a small token of our appreciation we would like to invite you and your partner or family to a garden party to be held at the house this Saturday from 10am through to 9pm. We hope you will be able to drop by at your convenience to join in the fun and to help us eat all the food. There will be a bouncy castle and children's entertainment laid on, and there will be a shuttle car arranged to the local Metro stations, so the grown-ups can enjoy a drink, and get home safely!

Please do come.

R.S.V.P. Via the studio internal mail system.

Anna had helpfully offered to get Marta two take out lunches from the canteen while she set up her chess board, suddenly Marta felt the discomfort of cramps coming on with more vehemence than she had felt previously, her first thought was Valya, but she was on location today, so she went to see Alina. At first she was a bit vague, but Alina seemed to understand and quietly stated “time of the month” at which Marta nodded. Handing her a small pack of tablets, she gave directions, and said to keep them and perhaps buy some to keep with her other supplies. Marta thanked her and went for a glass of water.

Anna dropped off the chess players lunches, then picked up the laptop and one of her notebooks saying she wanted to sit outside and work on an idea while she had her own lunch. There were landscaped areas around the office complex with small trees providing shade where some of the staff liked to have lunch and Anna set to work on an idea she had been thinking about for some time. Between bites she thumbed through her notebook then began typing 'FAQ for new models'.

Inside Karl won, though unusually for a teenage boy he perceived that Marta was not on form, she was in some way distracted, but was clueless why that was, so as they finished up the food he brought up the subject of her new school and the other Studio girls who went there. As that topic wound down he gathered up his courage to ask if she would like to visit the outdoor museum of Folk Architecture with him on Sunday, something Anna had talked about that he had overheard, and that Marta loved history and folk culture.

She perked up at this suggestion, saying when she had been sight seeing she had only noticed it in a guide book towards the end of the day when it had been too late, and she would love the chance to look at all the old rural wooden buildings that had been saved from around the countryside. She told him she would need to ask her parents, but they were bound to say yes if he made a good impression at the party on Saturday, he could tell from her smile that she was teasing him but he didn't mind.

That afternoon Anna showed Marta the FAQ she had been working on, then they got back to the cheerleader script, occasionally pop-ups on the computer would indicate another person sending a reply to their invites, they ticked off each acceptance on the main list.

Gina called to say all the girls could get together if they planned for a late lunch tomorrow, when Karl came on the tea run Marta said it seemed unlikely they would get another chance to play chess this week, but the smiling lad said he didn't mind as hopefully he would be seeing her a lot over the weekend.

The latest batch of foreign magazines were delivered, so they decided to call it a day and read them when they got home. Their mum was busy in the kitchen making plans for what they would need for the party on Saturday, and they found the boys engrossed watching a cartoon on the television, they were now able to pick up CNN and BBC world broadcasts, but this was the first time they had seen any children's programs in English.

Greg and Peter explained how the DVD was a present from aunty Valya that she had sent it by post to them, as she was away on holiday.

Magazines forgotten, as all four siblings sat and watched familiar cartoon characters get up to their usual tricks, they just happened to be speaking differently. Some time later Marta went for a lie down, and Anna went to help her mum prepare the evening meal.

Anna was surprised when her mobile started to ring as she didn't get many calls, it was Dmitri calling to find out what cables she had in her laptop bag. She described the two she found there and he asked her to take the laptop to her room and look for an outlet under her desk, he then went on with instructions on how to connect things together. He walked her through the various screens on the computer, explaining she now had internet access, and how she could connect to the studio server and office message system. He then told her outlets had been installed throughout the house shortly before the decorators had started work, and that Marta would also find a connection point near her desk.

Anna thanked Dmitri and said she would show Marta what he had explained to her, and then after saying their good-byes, she checked her mail, and was able to tick off some more names of people who had replied that they would attend on Saturday.

Her mum had now finished in the kitchen so Anna returned to her room to read, it was interesting to compare the American magazines with the local equivalent teen magazines she had bought at the news stand by the Metro station. The foreign ones were bigger with brash larger than life banners, but behind the razzle-dazzle she saw the shallow values and the blatant commercialism, by comparison her local offerings may appear a bit dull but despite that they seemed more grounded and realistic.

Some time later she heard Greg running along the upstairs hallway knocking on her, and her sister's bedroom doors to tell them diner was nearly ready. The family now had so much space and privacy, which may have seemed strange given her new career, but that was work and this was home, but it was no longer a case of getting changed in the main room or waiting for the single bathroom to be free.

When any of them wanted time alone to read or study or even to listen to a different radio station, everyone now had their own space.

The family evening meal was always a time for conversation, on how everyone had spent their day, the boys were pleased having been shopping with mum as they went to the real shops to buy new things, rather than the street market, it was nice having new clothes and books for school. Their father had been out learning the layout of the city, he had also been checking the locations of several of the sites he would be visiting when his new job started the following week. The girls talked about having visited the fashion studio, writing some essays for a school 'project' and taking time to practice their English.

They went on to discuss what they would need for Saturday, and the girls said they would call the cab company, and the caterers used by the studio to make the arrangements.

Igor said he would sort out the hire of a bouncy castle and see what he could do about finding any children's entertainers. They went down the list that Ella had been working on, dividing out the various tasks after Anna had said that it looked like everyone invited would be coming, but by tomorrow evening she expected to have a good idea of numbers.

After they had finished eating the girls insisted on clearing the table, while their parents sat and lingered over a coffee sorting the last of Ella's list. Of course even clearing up after a meal had changed, no more standing at the sink up to your elbows in hot water, it now meant rinsing the tableware, and loading the new dishwasher, or as Ella jokingly called it her 'magic cupboard', dirty dishes in, clean dishes out.

As Ella ticked off a few items and added some notes, she realised how just a short time ago it was a struggle to feed her family from week to week, never-mind organising a party for over sixty guests and their families. Her thoughts drifted to her previous life, and she was sure she couldn't name even half that number of friends or acquaintances combined, in fact she had trouble recalling even attending any sizeable social event.

If she had not seen for herself the size of the pay-cheques from the studio, and the growth of their savings, the cost of the party would have given her nightmares, but the money just kept rolling in, and soon Igor would be earning more than double what he had, even during the good years when there had been overtime available.

Ingrained habits die hard and she was doing some of the baking herself, and although she was only able to give the caterers provisional numbers so far, she had haggled a bit over their prices. Putting down the pen she looked through the list amazed at the spread they would lay on for their guests, pleased to be able to demonstrate their appreciation for all the help they had received.

To be continued....

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For the next installment of the A New Model is Discovered franchize, see Chapters 16 through 20.

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