It Boy

Alice has been a diligent and ambitious editor at Rebelle magazine for nearly two decades, consistently producing high-quality content and adhering to the company's strict image guidelines. However, upon learning that the prestigious editor-in-chief position is about to become vacant, Alice discovers that she still falls short of the ideal candidate: youth and a rebellious attitude. As she embarks on a personal and professional mission to reinvent herself, Alice's life intersects with a free-spirited 20-year-old named Balthazar. Balthazar's presence in Alice's life is almost serendipitous, coinciding with her decision to revamp her image and gain recognition within the company. Initially, Alice sees Balthazar as a catalyst for her transformation, someone who embodies the unconventional, unbridled spirit that she feels she has lost over the years. As their professional relationship evolves, it's difficult to tell whether Alice genuinely believes that her partnership with Balthazar will bring her career the boost she needs or if she's genuinely attracted to his carefree nature and boundless enthusiasm. As the story unfolds, Alice is increasingly drawn to Balthazar's unapologetic and bohemian lifestyle, which starkly contrasts with her own structured and controlled environment. He effortlessly navigates the world with a fluidity that inspires Alice to take a leap of faith and confront the fears and insecurities that have hindered her personal and professional growth. Despite her initial hesitation to befriend this vibrant and unorthodox character, Alice finds herself opening up to Balthazar and embracing the sense of freedom he provides. Their unlikely friendship is marked by a series of memorable encounters, from late-night talks in smoke-filled cafes to spirited debates about art, culture, and rebellion. Alice finds herself reflecting on the choices she's made throughout her life and, through Balthazar's influence, starts to question the values that have guided her as a person and an editor. Balthazar serves as a catalyst for Alice's self-discovery, encouraging her to break free from the constraints that have defined her and push the boundaries of what she thought was possible. As their friendship blossoms, Alice starts to realize that she has grown close to more than just her colleague. However, Balthazar's youthfulness and unbridled nature raise a host of questions about the ethics of her relationship with a younger, less experienced individual. Her feelings are further complicated by the fact that her role as a mentor and guide to Balthazar blurs the line between professional and personal responsibility. Alice's dilemma comes to a head when the editor-in-chief position is finally announced. A younger candidate, also mentored by Alice, is selected as the new chief editor. Despite being disappointed by the outcome, Alice reflects on the lessons she learned from Balthazar during her tumultuous transformation. In the process, Alice comes to terms with her own desires and aspirations, recognizing that her personal growth was as valuable as any professional advancement. As the story concludes, Alice leaves her mark on Rebelle magazine by stepping back into a role that allows her to create and innovate within the industry. The experience she shared with Balthazar has profoundly shaped Alice's perspective and has given her the courage to forge her own path, regardless of whether that's as editor-in-chief or merely as an inspired artist.