LEAD BY THE LUNA

I blinked my eyes repeatedly, attempting to ignore the persistent sound of my alarm clock, the beeping echoing through the room. With an outstretched arm, I reached over to silence it. Nestled within the soft silk sheets in shades of emerald, I lay, feeling their smoothness against my skin, enveloping me in a comforting embrace. Gradually, the electric shutters covering the expansive bay windows began to stir, allowing streams of sunlight to filter into the room. I propped myself up on my elbows, surveying the space around me. At the center of the room stood my cream-colored four-poster bed, its elegant presence commanding attention. A plush sheep-skin rug graced the floor, following the art-deco theme that permeated my sanctuary. The mirrored dresser and bedside cabinets did not have a speck of dirt on them, not even a fingerprint could be seen on its reflection. The mirrors embellished on the wall led to a walk-in wardrobe that any woman would be jealous of. It was filled with every designer you could imagine, with unique designs that elite socialites would kill for. In the last eight years, I had become the most powerful woman in New York, developing my career and starting my own media outlet incorporating social media outlets to ensure that I was the most influential woman in the world. Sweat and tears went into ensuring that I was successful. Everyone thought I would fail, but I passed their expectations. Those who once looked at me in disgust and pity now feared and cowered away. I sighed in contentment as I pushed myself from the bed. My home was something that was protected from outsiders; only a select few knew my residence. My penthouse was made up of two bedrooms with an open plan living space and balcony which surrounded it, offering me a panoramic view of New York City. I picked up my phone and made my way into the kitchen as I rang my assistant, Nathaniel. The living space was well-decorated with extravagant pieces of art and soft furnishings, completing the open living space. There was a large sofa and television. I never watched the television, but my interior designer insisted on it, advising me that guests may find enjoyment in it. I scoffed at her thought process, for there would never be any guests in my apartment. The most the television was used for is when there was some type of breaking news. My phone was still ringing as I reached the kitchen, which was made up of white countertops and marble. The design was minimalist and clean, just the way I liked the kitchen. Despite being rich, I had no use for a cook or a maid. It was a waste of money paying for something that I had spent years doing for myself. I reached the coffee machine, grabbing my mug along the way, and pressed the button for my six o'clock coffee. Finally, the phone stopped ringing and my assistant answered the phone. "Good morning, Miss Sinclair," Nathaniel spoke. "Good morning, Ben. I need you to run through my schedule for the day," I replied. "Of course, well, you have a late morning meeting with Unity Enterprises and then a fitting with Versace for the Met Gala. Donatella contacted you yesterday afternoon during your meeting to say she would be present and advised if needed they can move the fitting if something comes up. She said as long as it is before the 30th April, then your outfit will be complete. She also booked in another fitting on the 13th of May, the day before the gala, to ensure the fit is perfect." "That is fine. Could you pick up that pizza from Brooklyn that Donatella likes so much?" I asked, knowing full well he would do what is asked. I would always love... Donatella for she made me the stylish person who I am today. So representing her label as well as enjoying a meal with her is something that I would always make time for. "Of course Miss Sinclair. Is there anything else you need?" Nathaniel asked. "Yes, why do I have a meeting with Unity Enterprises? What do they want?" I questioned. "Well Miss Sinclair, it is uncertain what they want because they have refused to give any details other than they have a proposal," he replied. "Hmmm. What is the proposal?" There was something unsettling about Unity Enterprises, I don't know why I got this sense of familiarity when Nathaniel spoke of them. "Again, it was unknown, they refused to provide details with anyone but you. However, I asked Roger to look into it and he advised that they are looking for an investment and they have been trying to get a meeting with you for the last six months," Nathaniel stated. "Hmmm. What time is the meeting?" "10 am Miss Sinclair." He quickly replied. "Call them and tell them that the meeting has been moved to 8 am at the Woolworth Building" I calculated knowing full well that if they were desperate for my attendance they would take the appointment. I knew that if it was any other CEO that they would just rearrange the appointment for another day, but there was something unsettling about this company. "Very well ma'am. I will send the car to you for 7:15 am," Nathaniel stated. "Thank you Ben. I want you there taking notes as well. I will see you there." I replied and hung up the phone. I grabbed my coffee and made my way to the sliding doors that led to the balcony. The morning air was crisp and chilled. The coldness caressed me and little goosebumps danced across my skin. I grasped my coffee cup and allowed the heat warm my hands as I stared out into the New York skyline, the light peaked through the gaps of the building tops and sunshine reflected off the buildings making everything look shiny and new. I hummed as I brought my mug to my lips and let the liquid dance in my mouth. Everything I had ever wanted was in my grasp. I had the curves and the body of a goddess, my hair was now long and luscious, my skin was smooth and there was no blemish which could be seen. My eyes were now hidden behind long natural lashes and my lips were full and pouty. I smirked as I thought about the eligible bachelors that fought for my attention. The gifts they would send, the sonnets that they would spew, hoping that I would return their affections. I remember all the times ignored their hungry gazes. I chuckled, despite all that I have achieved and done. I was still that pathetic teenage girl that yearned for the boy made for her. Despite his callousness and betrayal my heart still beat for him. I took a deep breath knowing that despite my professional success, I would never be in love and happy. I would always live in solitude. I was always prepared and organised, it was what contributed to my success in managing and owning one of the most prestigious media outlets in New York City. My company rose during the start of social media and being so intellectual I knew it was not going anywhere. I moulded my company around the different social media outlets and created one of the biggest fashion, well-being and lifestyle magazines and blog in the country. My magazine was even popular in Europe, with many designers and celebrities wanting to contribute and star in our media outlet. As my audience began to grow, so did my acquisitions in other companies. I slowly invested my profits in other upcoming companies and supported them, helping them grow and succeed in their own market. I had my fingers dipped in every pot you can imagine. Many people made accusations and stated that I had obtained my wealth illegally but I always released my tax forms to the public for evidence. I would never have anyone smear my name again. I shake my head from bitter memories of the past, refusing to think about the trauma that had been caused by people I loved and cared for. Today was not the day to think about the past though, I had fish to fry. I made my way into the elevator in home building, it was private and guarded. No one had access to it but myself and select few. Even then they needed my permission and a new code to enter. I stared into the mirror which was decorated around the elevator. I wore my signature black Louboutins, a black pencil skirt with an emerald silk blouse. My red hair was curled top Perfection which hung down my back as I held a black clutch. My outfits were always designed and organised by Donatella. She always ensured I looked my best. The elevator pinged and I head reached the lobby.