The Rebirth of Layla

Chapter 2

“If I may ask, what is the assignment? And why can't someone else go for it.”

“There's always something different about your interviews, this particular interview is hardly held, unlike the interview with the Mayor which we've had several times. You're to interview Drake Kane, the famous actor, musician.” She paused and looked at me “You're the only one I trust with this particular one.” That of course made me feel good, but does not change the fact that I don't want to go? “Here's the file you will be going with, there is some vital information about him in there. Thank you Layla.”

“This is my job ma'am, thank you for the trust ma'am. What time will I be going?”

“12pm.” She replied, I then left her office. Well then, there's no escaping root for me. Going back to my office, I brushed through the questions I was to ask him. I read the information about him and realized that he doesn't have a good relationship with his elder brother, who happens to be his only family member we know. He's the highest paid musician and actor,and also has the most fan base. His age is not known, the only thing really personal about him that is known is his breakup with his girlfriend, which is the fault of the very social lady. He seems to be mysterious, which suddenly makes me feel different. I stared at his picture, his beauty unmatched.

The door of my office suddenly creaked and opened,revealing the only pest in my life. “You must actually be jobless.” She laughed at me.

“Has the boss called you already?” She asked, she's here to confirm if her gossip is true, and I'm afraid it is.

“It's inevitable.” I simply replied. “What time are you going?”

“12, I wish I had a choice.” I said and looked at, but her sadly I didn't.

“You can quit.” She said cackling and I rolled my eyes at her. “I need to get back to my work, enjoy the interview. Love you.” She left.

‘Enjoy the interview’ I scoffed and just got busy with some other things. By 11:30 my alarm went off. And I was set to go.

As I arrived at Drake Kane's mansion, I was awe struck by its grandeur. The entrance was flanked by tall pillars, and the door was adorned with intricate carvings. I'm greeted by a butler who lead me to the living room.

Drake Kane was already seated on a plush couch, sipping a glass of wine. He looked up as I entered, and our eyes met for the first time. I felt a jolt of electricity run through my body as he smiled and stood up to greet me. "Layla Brooks, it's a pleasure to meet you," he said, his voice low and smooth.

I took his hand, trying to play it cool. "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Kane."

"Please, call me Drake," he said, releasing my hand. I took a seat across from him, trying to compose myself. I glanced around the room, taking in the lavish decorations and the stunning view of the city skyline. "So, Layla, what do you want to talk about?" Drake asked, leaning back in his chair.

I pulled out my notebook and pen. "I'd like to discuss your latest projects, your inspirations, and your plans for the future." Drake nodded, taking a sip of his wine. "Fire away." He said and I turned my recorder on.

I began with the question " Between Music and Acting which are you more passionate about?"

"I'm passionate about both professions, but I'm more expressive when it comes to Music." He replied and I rolled my eyes a little wondering, his reply made me ask the next question. "Your recent release 'she's not the girl' what's the inspiration behind it?" He looked at me, his eyes piercing into my soul. I was not expecting him to say the truth.

"I'm a very honest person, and I'll agree with the speculation that Miss Emma, my ex-girlfriend, was my inspiration." He replied, smirking.

"Up to the next question, it's known that Charles Kane is your brother, what then is the reason for the animosity?" I stared at the question again making sure I read it well. In my view, this is too personal.

"How often do your parents have intercourse?" He asked me. Was he kidding? What sort of question is this? "I'll assume we're done. The butler will lead you out. Thank you." He got up and left. I turned off my recorder and… I was taken aback by Drake's sudden change in demeanor and his inappropriate question. I felt a surge of anger and embarrassment wash over me, but I tried to maintain my professionalism.

"I think we're done indeed," I said, standing up and gathering my things. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Kane." I shouted hoping he heard. The butler appeared out of nowhere and led me out of the mansion.

As I step out into the fresh air, I took a deep breath and tried to process what just happened. "That was...enlightening," I said to the butler, trying to keep my tone light.

"Sorry about that, miss," he replied, his expression apologetic. "Mr. Kane can be...unpredictable at times." I nodded and smiled, trying to make light of the situation.

"Sure can. Well, at least I got some interesting quotes out of it." As I walked back to my car, I couldn't help but wonder what just happened. Was Drake trying to provoke me or was he simply being his usual arrogant self? He crossed the line with that absurd question. I got into my car and started the engine, trying to shake off the feeling of unease that's settled in my stomach. As I drove away from the mansion, I couldn't help but feel that this interview is far from over. When I arrived back at the office, Emily was waiting for me, eager to hear all about my encounter with Drake Kane.

"So, how was it?" she asked, barely containing her excitement. I took a deep breath and launched into the story, leaving out no detail. Emily listened with wide eyes, her expression growing more and more shocked.

"Wow, he sounds like a real piece of work," she said when I finished. I nodded in agreement.

"I know, right? But despite all the drama, I think I might have gotten some good material out of it." Emily grinned mischievously. "I'm sure you did. Now let's get to work on that article and make Drake Kane regret ever messing with Layla Brooks."

I reported to my boss how it all went and she smiled saying "I knew you were capable." I spent the rest of the day writing my article, pouring all my thoughts and feelings into it. I was determined to make it a piece that will leave a lasting impression on my readers. As I wrote, I couldn't help but think about Drake Kane and his enigmatic personality. There's something about him that draws me in, despite his arrogance and unpredictability. I finished the article and read it over, making sure it's perfect. I titled it "The Real Drake Kane: Behind the Facade" and submitted it to my editor. The next day, the article was published, and it quickly went viral. People were asking for more copies of the day's news.