Hailey Bieber's cousin

Chapter 19

The days following Coachella were filled with unexpected repercussions. The festival, known for attracting celebrities, influencers and fans from all over the world, received massive media coverage, as always. But this time, a new name was trending: Michael Baldwin, or simply "Mike", Hailey Bieber's cousin.

The photos and videos of Mike walking around the festival with Justin and Hailey began to go viral even more, and the media was quick to notice how he stood out in the crowd. His imposing presence, impressive height and defined muscles captured everyone's attention, even more than some of the music stars who performed on stage.

Several entertainment outlets began to comment on the situation in a funny way. TMZ published an article with the title: "Who is the huge guy with Justin and Hailey at Coachella? Spoiler: He's a former Navy SEAL and steals the show!" The article described Mike as a mix of bodyguard and superhero, with a physique that looked like something out of an action movie.

E! News also got in on the fun, posting: "We didn't know Coachella had a new headliner: Michael Baldwin, Hailey Bieber's Navy SEAL cousin!" The media's lighthearted tone showed that Mike had become an unexpected and fun highlight of the festival.

But what really caused a stir were the comments from other celebrities. Kendall Jenner, who was also at the festival, posted a story on Instagram joking: "Forget the shows, the real show was Mike! We need more Navy SEALs at Coachella!", accompanied by a photo taken from afar, showing Mike in the crowd, clearly standing out from the crowd.

Other celebrities also got in on the act. Chrissy Teigen tweeted: "Okay, who is this Mike and why does he seem more interesting than any Coachella act? Asking a friend..." The joke went viral, and soon celebrities and influencers were joking about Mike being Coachella's "new icon."

Even artists who performed at the festival got in on the fun. DJ Diplo, who played at the event, posted a photo of Mike on his Instagram with the caption, "Mike Baldwin, future security for my tours?" followed by laughing emojis. The post quickly garnered thousands of likes and comments, with fans joining in on the joke.

In the comments section on social media, fans were loving the festival's new "celebrity." "I've never wanted to be protected more than I do now!" wrote one follower on a post about Mike. "Imagine having a cousin like that. You're safe forever!" commented another.

But what really caught the eye was a video that circulated on social media, capturing the moment when some people approached Mike, thinking he was Justin and Hailey's security guard, and he, in a relaxed tone, replied:

"No, I'm just their cousin. But I can help you find your way if you need it."

This unexpected kindness in contrast to his intimidating appearance made the audience fall even more in Mike's good graces.

In the end, the reaction from the media and the public was a combination of amusement and admiration. Mike, who had initially stood out for his appearance, quickly won everyone over with his charismatic and simple personality.

He became the "mystery guy" of the festival, someone who, despite being a former military man with an impressive resume, was just there to have fun with his family and friends.

And despite the unexpected attention, Mike maintained his usual calm and humble demeanor. When Hailey teased him about his newfound fame at the post-festival dinner, he simply shrugged and smiled:

"I just came here to party. Who would have thought I'd end up stealing the show?"

As Coachella drew to a close and memories of the festival began to solidify, one thing was certain: Michael Baldwin had left his mark in a way no one expected.

Chapter 20

May arrived with its usual anticipation among celebrities and fashionistas: the Met Gala, one of the most anticipated events in the fashion world. That night, Hailey and Justin Bieber decided not to attend the event in person, something that surprised many of their fans.

However, they opted for a quieter evening at home, watching the event coverage on TV alongside Michael Baldwin, or as he was affectionately known by everyone: Mike.

Sitting on the couch in the spacious living room of the Biebers' home in Los Angeles, the trio relaxed as images of the Met Gala red carpet appeared on the screen. The celebrities paraded in extravagant and often conceptual outfits, something that, to Mike, seemed somewhat confusing.

"So, this event... is it like a fashion show?" Mike asked, frowning as he watched someone in a dress that looked more like a work of art.

Hailey gave a soft laugh, noticing her cousin's strangeness. "In a way, yes. But the Met Gala is a little more than that. It's a charity event organized by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and every year they choose a different theme. The idea is that the guests, who are the biggest stars in music, film and fashion, wear clothes that correspond to the theme."

Justin, who had attended a few times before, laughed and leaned back on the couch. "Basically, it's a big event to raise money for the museum, and at the same time, a bunch of famous people dress up in the craziest outfits you can imagine."

"And do the outfits have to be like… over the top?" Mike asked, still trying to figure it out. On the screen, he saw a famous singer in a shiny silver outfit and an astronaut helmet.

Hailey smiled and explained: "The goal is to impress, shock and be creative. People compete to see who can get the most attention and stay on theme. This year, for example, the theme is a tribute to Karl Lagerfeld, who was one of the biggest fashion icons."

Mike nodded slowly, still a little skeptical. "I see. Have you guys been to it?"

Justin and Hailey exchanged a look and laughed.

"Yeah, we have," Hailey replied with a nostalgic smile. "It's always crazy. Lots of people, lots of media, and the clothes… well, you see. Some of them are really cool, but they're not always comfortable."

Mike smirked, looking back at the screen. "Well, I guess I'm not a fan of being cramped in fancy clothes. I prefer something more practical," he said jokingly as he tugged lightly on his basic t-shirt.

"That's because you spent years in tactical gear and combat fatigues," Justin teased, laughing. "I'm sure the designers could come up with something stylish for you."

"As long as it doesn't involve a silver helmet, I might consider it," Mike replied, drawing more laughs from both of them.

As the Met Gala broadcast continued, Hailey explained more details about the event. She talked about the famous staircase where all the guests make their grand entrances, and how Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of Vogue and the event's organizer, was responsible for putting together the guest list. Only the biggest names in fashion and entertainment were honored to be there.

Mike listened intently, interested but unimpressed. "So, only famous and rich people. And everyone just shows off?"

Justin chuckled softly. "Basically."

"What about the food? Because if I had to dress like that, I'd at least expect a nice dinner," Mike said, half-jokingly.

Hailey rolled her eyes playfully. "Not really. They serve dinner, but it's nothing special. Most people don't even eat properly, they're worried about their dresses and photos."

"So it's a runway show, with no real food and uncomfortable clothes?" Mike shook his head. "I don't know if that's for me."

Justin nodded. "That's why we're here watching from home, bro."

As the event continued on the screen, with even more celebrities parading around in extravagant outfits, Mike leaned back on the couch, clearly content to not be involved in any of it.

While the glamour and glitz of the Met Gala were unparalleled, he felt much more at home in his simple, down-to-earth life. But he couldn't help but admire Hailey's enthusiasm as she explained the meaning behind each dress and look on display.

"I guess the fashion world is definitely not my thing," Mike concluded with a smile, looking at his cousins. "But I'm glad you guys introduced me to it. From afar, at least."

Hailey laughed and patted Mike on the shoulder. "You'd look amazing in a suit, for the record."

Justin nodded, laughing. "Absolutely, man. If you ever change your mind, who knows?"

Mike just laughed in response, letting the conversation hang in the air as the event coverage continued. Even though it wasn't the kind of thing he imagined doing, he was happy being able to share these moments with Hailey and Justin, learning more about their world and adjusting to his new life in Los Angeles.

As the night wore on and the Met Gala continued on TV, Mike knew that even though he wasn't ready to walk up those stairs, he was happy to be close to his family in a much more meaningful way.

Chapter 21

June arrived with a big surprise for Mike. He was living a quiet life in Los Angeles, adapting to the routine away from military life and enjoying time with Hailey and Justin. Although he was far from the battlefield, Mike had no idea that civilian life could bring unexpected challenges and situations so different from what he was used to. However, nothing prepared him for what was about to happen.

One day, while having breakfast in the kitchen, Mike received an unexpected call. On the other end of the line, an agent from one of the biggest fashion brands in the world, Calvin Klein, explained that they were interested in inviting him to an advertising campaign for underwear.

And, to add even more tension to the proposal, he would be doing the shoot alongside Kendall Jenner, one of the most famous supermodels in the world and a close friend of Hailey.

Mike was in shock, unable to believe what he had just heard. He had always been proud of his physique, maintained through intense training and years of discipline as a Navy SEAL. But modeling for an underwear campaign? That was way out of his comfort zone.

"Me? Modeling? For underwear?" Mike repeated to himself in disbelief as he hung up the phone. He ran his hands through his hair and stood up from the table, still in a daze.

Decided not to make this decision alone, he walked into the living room where Hailey and Justin were relaxing. "Hey, you two, I need to talk to you about something."

Hailey looked up from her phone, curious, while Justin, who was playing a song on his guitar, stopped playing and looked at Mike with a puzzled expression. "What's up, Mike?"

Mike took a deep breath before starting. "I got a call from Calvin Klein. They want me to do an ad campaign... for underwear. With Kendall."

Hailey's eyes widened and in a second, a huge smile formed on her face. "Really? That's amazing!"

Justin, on the other hand, looked at Mike with a mixture of surprise and amusement. "Wait, you? In an underwear campaign? That's crazy, man!"

Mike let out a nervous laugh, shaking his head. "Yeah, I don't know what to think about that. I've never thought about being a model, much less posing in my underwear. I'm ex-military, not a model."

Hailey quickly stood up and walked over to Mike, placing her hands on his shoulders. "Mike, you're perfect for this! You've got the physique, you've got the presence... and on top of that, it's something new, something that can surprise you in a good way."

Justin joined in the conversation, still with an amused smile. "Man, think about it. You've spent years doing things that no one else in the world can do. Now you just have to relax and have fun. Plus, working with Kendall? That's going to be a unique experience."

Mike looked from one to the other, still hesitant. "I don't know... This is so different from anything I've ever done. I've always been the guy behind the scenes, not the guy in front of the camera."

Hailey nodded encouragingly. "Exactly! And that's what's going to make you stand out. It's not just about being good looking or having an amazing body, it's about your story, your presence. You have something that most models don't. Besides, who knows, maybe you'll like it? It could be fun!"

Justin laughed, lightly punching Mike in the arm. "And if you don't, at least you'll make good money and have a story to tell."

Mike thought for a few moments, processing their words. They were right. Maybe this was an opportunity to explore a new side of himself, to try something outside of his comfort zone.

Besides, he knew that Hailey and Justin wouldn't encourage him to do something he really didn't want to do. With a sigh, he looked at them both and shrugged.

"Okay, I'll try. I'll call you back and tell you I'm in."

Hailey cheered with joy, clapping her hands together. "I knew you'd say yes! It's going to be amazing, Mike!"

Justin smiled and gave his cousin a hug. "Good, bro. Now let's see you become the new face of Calvin Klein."

Mike laughed, but he was still a little apprehensive. He picked up his phone and, with a strange feeling in his stomach, dialed the number of the Calvin Klein agent. When the call was answered, he gave his answer.

"Hi, this is Mike. I've decided to accept the offer."

On the other end of the line, the agent sounded relieved and excited. "Fantastic, Mike! We're so happy to have you on board. We'll work out all the details, and you'll have all the information about the shoot with Kendall soon."

After hanging up, Mike looked at Hailey and Justin, who were visibly proud.

"So that's it," Mike said, still processing everything. "I guess I'm going to be a model."

Hailey gave her cousin a big hug. "You're gonna rock, Mike. Trust me!"

Justin laughed and leaned back on the couch. "Who would have thought my brother-in-law would be a Calvin Klein model? The world is full of surprises."

And with that, Mike gave the go first step into a new and unexpected phase of your life.

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