“Long, hot, and a bit crowded.”
“You would think with modern technology. We’d be able to make it from coast to coast a bit faster.”
“I agree. I think Elon Musk will make it happen in our lifetime.”
Margie smiles. “I imagine he will. You’re going to be working side by side with Talia Roberts. You both start on Monday, and this is the project you’re going to be working on.” She passes me a thick blue folder with the name Eo on the front.
“As in the band?”
“Yes, you’ve heard of them?”
“A little. They don’t get much airplay in Los Angeles.”
Margie nods. “Which is exactly what you and Talia will change. Eo was nominated for eight Grammys and didn’t win one. Their manager wants to change that. They have a new album coming out in early summer, and we want to deliver the best marketing campaign we can.”
Oh, how I’d love to call Elle and tell her what I’m going to work on, but I can’t. I won’t. Knowing she’d be in the thick of planning with me does bring a smile to my face though and I know I can call Mr. HPJ and ask him for advice gives me the boost of confidence I’ve been missing.
“You seemed pleased with this project.”
“I am. I have a few friends in the music business. I’m assuming it’s okay to bounce ideas off of them as long as I keep our client’s privacy?”
“Of course, but remember, Talia is your partner. You both must agree on a marketing plan.”
“I understand.”
“Great, see you Monday.”
“Thanks.” I stand and carefully hold the folder upright so as to not spill the contents. “Oh, can you tell me how to get to the subway from here?” I ask before realizing Brad put them in my letter.
“Heather will be able to give you directions. Make sure you see her before you leave so she can take you to security.”
“I will, thank you.”
“Oh, and Ben,” Margie says my name before I leave her office. I look at her expectantly. “Welcome to Omni. I have a feeling you’re going to fit in rather nicely here.”
“Thank you.” I smile and turn toward my cubicle. This time, I do sit in the chair and take it for a spin. Might as well get this out of my system before I start work.
17
Elle
Our plane touches down and reality sets
in. Our spring break should’ve been all about Peyton and her upcoming wedding, but it was spent trying to put my life back in order. Hard truths were said by my sister, a lot of tears shed, but in the end, Peyton has helped me see the error of my ways. I know I have an uphill challenge, not only with Ben but with my personal health as well.
As soon as the door opens, I follow Peyton down the stairs, almost falling when she starts screaming. I reach for her. However, she’s gone before I realize what’s happening. My hand goes to my forehead to shield the sun so I can see what’s going on. Someone's waiting near the hangar who I assume is Noah. How Peyton knows it’s him, is beyond me. Maybe it’s the connection they share, the same type I want to have with Ben if he’ll have me. If I were Ben, I’d run the other way after the way I’ve treated him.
When I reach the waiting car, Peyton pulls away from Noah. I stop and look at her, and that’s when it hits me. She had a fantastic week in Aruba, but it’s Noah who makes her unbelievably happy. Peyton has a different glow to her right now.
“Hey, Noah.”
He approaches and hugs me. “Fun time?”
“Only the best with the James’ sisters.”
“Yeah, I know firsthand how fun you two are.” Noah winks and takes my suitcase from me. I climb into the backseat, while Peyton takes the front. “So what’s the plan?” I ask her.
“We’re going to head to Mom and Dad’s. Do you want to go?”