Marked by the Mafia Crest

Chapter 3 - Sylvia pov

The air this morning definitely had a buzz of excitement in it this morning. Tasha could not contain her excitement waiting for this Natalie Simon's lady to show up and talk about her pitch to us. Apparently it was going to be a large-scale project, and she wanted to see us in action, and someone else would help make the deciding vote. I am definitely curious about what she will want to see us photographing to prepare for this assignment. I doubt I will be one demonstrating for her. I think everyone is in agreement to give the project to Tasha. She is definitely a good fit for a celebrity high energy project like this. I myself am not really into photographing people. I prefer architecture, landscape, plants, animals, just anything pretty much other than people.

"Alright, we have one hour before Miss Ellen Williams gets here to talk to us about the project. The meeting area is all set up. We just need some fresh coffee out there, and that should be everything. The photos are already set up on display for her to look over some of our styles." I said, downing my coffee right after. I think the only love of my life is coffee.

"I'm so excited! I think I am shaking!" Tasha definitely has way too much energy for so early in the morning.

Theo definitely seemed indifferent about the project. High class celebrities and fancy parties didn't really seem like something he would be interested in. Myriam and Stanley definitely didn't have an interest in being apart of the job either. Unfortunately if Tasha needs help with this it will probably have to be me going with her. I prefer to stay away from big events. The publicity still scares me and always will.

The next hour went by rather quickly. Tasha moving and rearranging her photos, Theo setting up for a photoshoot later, Myriam and Stanley off in the office together. I tried to focus on work and some financial figures but my mind kept looking at celebrities tabloids. I never cared for them and honestly don't keep up on anyone well know around the area. Growing up it was mostly business men and powerful people in the Mafia I tried to learn about. I never want to have to focus on that stuff again.

Eight o'clock on the dot the doorbell sounded alerting us of someone walking in the front door. Usually we would never open so early but this was a special occasion.

Ellen Williams is definitely a vision of perfection. Tall, thin, black hair tightly pulled up in a bun, dark brown eyes sharp behind black frame glasses, she looks every bit the perfect secretary. Her dark gray suit and black briefcase set the look off perfectly. Her face so serious and set in an almost pinched way gave me a little bit of an unsettled feeling.

"Good morning Miss Williams," Stanley said walking over to her and shaking her hand. "Welcome to our studio. This is my wife Myriam, and our employees Sylvia, Theo, and Tasha. They have their photos on display around the room and personal portfolios to look at if you would like."

Stanley straight to business like always. I know she wants to keep this meeting short and to the point. We each take turns nodding as our names are said. Stanley already had her chair pulled out for her and we were all sitting by the time he was done talking.

"I've heard great things about you all from others you have worked it. I'll get straight to the point I am not the one deciding who gets this project. There is an event in three days that I would like you three to attend and take photos of. The one deciding will be observing you while you work and see your final work when done," Miss Williams said. Her voice very firm and aggressive in a way. Very easy to tell this woman is a force to be reckoned with if ever going up against her. An admirable trait for someone in her position.

"Will we be introduced to who we are working for that night?" Tasha asked with probably more enthusiasm than necessary.

"No, not until after the event and evaluation," Miss Williams stated.

"That is fine, is there a dress code or anything else we should know about the event?" I said filling my coffee cup again. Unfortunately, not sleeping well lately is starting to take its toll on me.

"Formal event, please dress accordingly. Do not stand out or get involved during the event. Remain in the background and photograph the people and speakers." Miss Williams checked her watch on her wrist stating.

"That should be manageable. Who would you like to go out of us?" I said taking the lead on this. Clearly she is ready to leave.

"Sylvia, Theo, and Tasha the three of you will all attend. Be at this address at 6pm, do not be late or you will not be let in the door. Let them know who you are and they will direct you on where to go and your areas to stay in," Miss Williams pulled a piece of paper our of her briefcase and held out to me.

I took the paper from her and quickly read over parts of it. My mouth almost dropped open reading it but I held my composure somehow. This is the biggest charity event of the year. There will be all the big names, most wealthiest people around at this event. Formal and elegant doesn't even begin to describe it. If you're not on this list you don't have enough money to breath around these people attending.

"Yes Miss Williams, that should be manageable," I said when I could find my voice again. The idea of going to this event made my skin crawl with nerves.

"Good, I will see you then. Now I must being going. Thank you all for your time," Miss Williams said. She stood and nodded at Stanley and Myriam before she turned and walked towards the door.

I waiting till the door closed behind her before handing the paper to Tasha. A loud shriek of excitement pierced our ears as she read the paper.