"Keep following my lead and we will. I'll be in touch these next couple of hours and I'll see you soon."
"Cool."
"Kennedy, the queen bee told me to have you come to her office," Tammy told me as soon as I hung up with Blair.
"What does she want," I mumbled rolling my eyes.
"Not sure, but no need to rush."
"Why do you say that? You know how Darcy hates waiting on anybody."
"She won't notice. Some ridiculously handsome guy in an expensive suit is in there keeping her company."
"Really?"
"Yep."
"Do I know him?"
"I don't know. His face does look somewhat familiar but it could be that I saw him at some of the events we've done. Not sure, but I do know I've never seen Darcy act so sweet and flirty around a guy before. I almost forgot she's an ice queen."
"Yeah, it would be interesting to meet the guy who can bring that out of her. But anyway, while I'm talking to our boss," I uttered sarcastically, "confirm the press for Skee Patron's album release party tomorrow."
"So is that all we're covering for his party?"
"Yeah, his label is doing the actual event all we're handling is the press and guest list."
"Sweet. That party is going to rock. Goodness, I hope I get to meet Skee."
"I take it you're a fan."
"Of course, who isn't a fan!"
"I'm not big on his music but he's winning right now so good for him. But tomorrow night, remember we are working so no groupie antics."
"I got you. I promise to be on my best behavior."
"I counting on it," I said, winking my eye before I turned to go to Darcy's office. As soon as I came out the door I bumped straight into a solid six-foot with some inches man. "I'm so sorry, excuse me."
"In the future when you're walking, don't look down at the floor, look up. It will make it much easier for you to avoid this type of misstep."
"Is there a problem?" Darcy questioned, stepping out of her office."
"Again, I apologize."
"No, there isn't a problem. It's been dealt with," he replied in a self-important tone. While giving him a smug side-eye on the low it quickly hit me that I remembered this arrogant fuck. He was the prick Darcy was tonguing down when she had me come into work on a Saturday morning. He walked past me like I was beneath him because I was dressed down on some bum shit. It was amazing to me that Darcy was all love struck over a dude that had a worse attitude than her. But maybe that's what she liked. He had to be the ultimate challenge for her because he probably treated her like shit.
"Is he a new client, Darcy?" I asked, playing dumb like I didn't know what was up.
"No, he's actually my man." After Darcy said it, her face lit up like fireworks. I was stunned she even admitted that shit.
"This is a first. I've never heard you acknowledge having a man."
"That's because no man has ever deserved it until now. But enough about my personal life, we're in the workplace so lets stick to business."
"Whatever you say, you're the boss."
"Exactly, and because I'm the boss I have to personally take a trip to LA and meet with a potential big money client."
"I'm sure you'll lock that deal down."
"I'm sure I will too but I need for you to hold things down for me until I get back."
"How long will you be gone?"
"A week."
"Wow, this must be a really important client to keep you away from the office for a week."
"It is. Plus I'm going to make the most of the trip and meet with some other clients too. But I need you to stay on top of everything while I'm gone, Kennedy."
"Have I ever let you down?"
"No, and I don't want you to start now. I will be here for Skee Patron's party tomorrow night but then I'm flying out first thing in the morning. Of course we'll be in constant contact throughout my trip but I expect for you to make sure everything runs smoothly during my absence."
"Darcy, don't you worry. I plan to run this business like it's my very own. So you go to LA and get that money." I gave Darcy a reassuring smile and I wanted to do cartwheels exiting her office. A week of not having to see Darcy's face was a dream come true and more importantly with her not hovering over me it would give me so much time to work Blair's project. This was fantastic news.
I was looking at my watch as I waited in the lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel for Blair. It was 1:55pm and I was keeping my fingers crossed she would be on time. I wanted to get her posted up in the luncheon and knock out a few photo opps before Darcy got there. Because if Darcy caught me working the room on Blair's behalf she would grill me like she was the feds.
"Omigoodness! Blair, I can't believe you're early," I gasped, as I saw her coming towards me.
"Only a few minutes."
"I don't know when you're going to listen to me when I tell you that every second counts. You're slowly becoming my favorite client, although technically you're my only client. But enough about that, come with me and by the way you look amazing."
"So this works for you?"
"Yes, I'm loving this cut and the aqua color is going to show beautiful on photos. And color-block peeptoes sets the dress off perfectly. Then the hair and makeup, you are truly looking like a star. Come, come, come, we have to work this room quick," I said, taking Blair's hand leading her into the limelight.
"So happy you approve."
The moment we entered the private dining room I began introducing Blair to movie executives and having her take pictures with A and B list stars in attendance. The great thing about these type of intimate private events was that mostly everybody arrived early or right on time because they knew it didn't last that long so they wanted to do as much politicking as they possibly could.
"Marcus, hi, it's so good to see you."
"Kennedy, how are you? It's been a long time."
"I know. You're so busy making moves in Hollywood you have no time for us little people," I joked.
"Please, I see you're still making moves. Always in the right places."
"I'm trying and as a matter of fact I want you to meet a new client of mine."
"I had no idea you started your own PR Company. But between us, I always thought you had way too much potential to just be under Darcy."
"I'm actually still working for Darcy but I'm slowly but surly branching out on my own and Blair is my first client. Blair, "I called out, motioning for her to come over. There was some young up and coming director all up in her face, which was good but Marcus was so much better.
"That's your new client?"
"Yep."
"I see why she's your first client. She is a real beauty."
"And you know what else, she has real talent and I'm not just saying that because I rep her. Marcus you need to give this girl a chance."
"You mean like an audition?"
"Yes, she's an actress, not simply a pretty face."
"I apologize that it took me so long to get over here but that director had so much to say but it was all good stuff."
"No problem. I was calling you over here because I wanted you to meet Marcus Powell. He is the top guy over at Lionsgate. He actually played a major role in getting the Tyler Perry deal done over there."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Powell."
"The pleasure is all mine but please call me Marcus."
"And I'm Blair."
"I know. Kennedy can't stop singing your praises."
"Well thank you, Kennedy."
"I'm only speaking the truth."
"So how long have you been acting, Blair?" Marcus asked, quickly warming up to Blair. From the corner of my eye I noticed Darcy coming our way.
"Excuse me for a moment. I'll be back but while I'm gone you all get acquainted," I smiled before hurrying off towards Darcy. "Darcy, you made it," I casually greeted her, hoping she didn't catch I was trying to stop her in her tracks.
"Yes, I did. The event seems to be going very
nicely. The turnout is even better than I expected. The combination of high ranking executives and movie stars is balanced perfectly."
"I was thinking the exact same thing."
"Who is that young woman Marcus Powell is talking to?"
"I think some new actress on the scene."
"She must have some pretty good connects to get into a luncheon like this."
"I have no idea."
"I wonder if she has a rep. Let me go introduce myself."
"Darcy, Idris Elba is waving for you to come over. You can go talk to that girl later, he's way more important."
"Oh, Idris is here…yeah she can wait," Darcy said to my relief. No, Idris didn't wave for Darcy to come over but her ego was so colossal she would believe it and that's all that mattered. As I followed behind her all I could think to myself was she couldn't get on that flight to LA soon enough.
Blair
I was still smiling when I got back to my apartment after the luncheon. I couldn't believe all the incredible people I met and the amount of pictures that were taken of me. Kennedy was going out her way to see me succeed and it was paying off big time. But one thing she was right about is that I was constantly on the move. I hadn't had a moment of sleeping late and being on chill mode since she took on my project. I had to catch a moment of rest anytime I could get it and that's what I planned on doing. I was about to take off my clothes so I could get a couple hours of sleep before getting ready for Skee's concert tonight. But before I could even take my shoes off and relax I could hear the front door opening.
"Michael, I'm surprised to see you. I thought you said you weren't coming over until it was time to go to the concert."
"There has been a change of plans."
"Meaning?"
"I can't make it the concert tonight."
"Why not?"
"An important meeting had to be rescheduled for later on tonight and I know it's going to run late."
"You can't reschedule it for tomorrow morning instead."
"Did you not hear me use the word important?"
"It seems everything but me is important to you."
"Really, Blair. Are you about to bore me with one of your tantrums? I came here to see you and let you know I couldn't make it tonight not to listen to you complain."
"Wanting to spend time with my boyfriend is complaining? I haven't even had the chance to talk to you and let you know all the great things that have been going on in my life lately."
"I'm sure it's nothing that I would be interested in."
"You're so cold."
"I'm not cold I'm honest. What could possibly be the highlight of your day…getting your hair colored? Buying a new pair of shoes, bag and dress. Like I said nothing interesting."
"You really don't believe in me at all. I'll never be good enough for you."
"We've already established that so why are you even bringing it up and making it a part of our discussion."
"Michael, why…"
"Damn," he said reading a text message. "I have to go. I'll call you later."
"Can't that wait? We're not finished talking."
"We are finished for now. I have to go. I'll call you later." Without saying another word Michael simply left me standing in the middle of the living room feeling worthless. The high I was just on from being at the luncheon, mingling with the Hollywood elite had been yanked from me. With a slow stride I went in my bedroom full of gloom. I hated that such a depressing feeling had come over me. I wanted to close my eyes and just sleep but then I heard my phone ringing. My first reaction was that Michael realized how cruel he had been and was calling to apologize, of course that was wishful thinking.
"Hey, Kennedy, what's up?"
"I just got off the phone with Skee's people and I was calling to give you the time the limo would be picking you all up and where to go when you get to Madison Square Garden."
"I'm not gonna be able to make it."
"Excuse me…what do you mean you're not going to be able to make it?"
"Michael just left and he can't come tonight."
"And what difference does that make?"
"He was the one that was supposed to go with me."
"I seriously doubt if Skee cares that your boyfriend can't attend the concert with you."
"I don't want to go by myself."
"Call Diamond. I'm sure she would love to go."
"No, that's okay. I really don't feel like going anymore."
"Blair, please don't make me stop my work and drag you to that concert. I have too much shit to get done to drop everything and hold your hand."
"I'm not asking you to hold my hand. Can't I have a moment to myself because my boyfriend made me feel like shit and I don't want to be bothered with anybody?"
"Nope, you don't have that luxury when you're a new talent trying to build a career."
"This is a fuckin' concert it isn't work!"
"That's where you're wrong. Sweetie, in this business you're always on the clock working. This isn't just a concert. You're the leading lady in Skee Patron's upcoming video. That exposure is going to lead to more work. When you go to that concert tonight that's a photo opp I can use to get more press for you. When you're in the VIP area, tastemakers will see your face and you'll network. Again, this is all work. So you're going to stop feeling sorry for yourself, get up off your ass and go to that concert. I don't give a damn if a bum off the street is your date, you're going, are we clear?"
"Yes, we're clear."
"Good. The limo will be there at seven-thirty. I will text you all the other information."
"Fine."
"And, Blair."
"Yes."
"I expect you to be a professional tonight. Leave the sour face at home. Every time you walk out that door, you are representing a star and you have to conduct yourself as such. If you don't look and act the part then you'll never get the part. Understood?"
"Understood."
"Wonderful. I'll be in touch with you later on." When I hung up with Kennedy I immediately called Diamond."
"Hey girl, what is going on?"
"I'm so glad you answered the phone."
"Of course. I've wanted to talk to you. We've been playing phone tag for the last week or so."
"I know things have been so crazy."
"Kennedy told me. She's really been busting her ass for you but she said you're worth it because you've been doing everything she's told you to do and you guys are having great success."
"Yeah, that's true. But ummm…"I tried to hold back my tears but I couldn't stop the sniffling.
"Blair, what's wrong…are you okay?"
"No I'm not."
"What happened?"
"Take a guess?"
"Ahhh shit, it has to be that asshole Michael. Only he can make you cry a river."
"Diamond, he is so mean. It's like every time I start feeling good about myself he totally shatters it." My voice was quivering and I was becoming way more emotional than I had intended.
"I hate that you let him do this to you. Enough is enough, Blair. If you don't let Michael go, he's going to emotionally destroy you."
"I can't help but believe deep down inside he does love me."
"Girl, that ain't love it's called mental abuse. He uses that to control you."
"Listen, Kennedy made it very clear that I have to attend this Skee Patron concert tonight. Would you please go with me?"
"Fuck I would love to but I promised my mother I would take her to Jersey to visit her best friend who just got out of the hospital. I'm so sorry. Why don't you call Kirk?"
"I don't know. I don't want him to get the wrong idea."
"What idea is that…that you're available? Please, Blair that's exactly what he needs to believe and it needs to be true."
"It's much more complicated than that."
"Look, my mother is calling for me to come on so I have to go. But call Kirk and go to the concert with him. Ever since we were little girls you've been so
sensitive and I would always try to protect you but Blair I need you to start protecting yourself."
"I know and you're right."
"I'll see you tomorrow night at the party but we'll talk before then. Now call Kirk!" Diamond yelled out before hanging up.
All I wanted to do was crawl into bed and cry my heart out but instead of taking the easy way out I dialed Kirk's number. "Is this who I think it is?" Kirk answered in his typical charming voice.
"How are you? Did I catch you at a bad time?"
"No. But it seems every time I try to call you it must be at a bad time because you never answer."
"Sorry about that but things have been so hectic for me since the video shoot. Kennedy keeps me extremely busy."
"That means she's on her job which is how it's supposed to be."
"I can't complain. Kennedy is definitely making it happen. Speaking of making things happen. I know it's last minute and I totally understand if you have other plans but I wondering if you would attend Skee Patron's concert with me tonight?"
"Mos Def."
"Really…wow….thanks." For some reason I didn't think Kirk would be available on such short notice but it was amazing how he always made time for me when I did need him unlike Michael.
"Thank you for inviting me although I'm sure I wasn't your first choice. But that's okay, I'll take a date with you anyway I can get it. What time do you want me to pick you up?'
"Actually, Skee arranged for a limo to come get us. We're his special invited guests. Is that cool with you?"
"You mean you're his special invited guest but I'm cool with that. We're going to have a good time and that's all that matters."
"You're right." To my amazement I found myself smiling. I would've never guessed that speaking with Kirk would lift my spirit. I was so happy I took Diamond's advice and made the call. "So can you be here around seven-fifteen?"
"Sure can. I'll see you then."
"Yeah, see you then. Bye, Kirk."
After hanging up with Kirk I was no longer in the mood to take an afternoon nap. Instead I turned on some music and blasted it really loud. I found myself dancing around my apartment to Rhianna's new feel good song and that high that had been yanked from me was now back.
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