Love's Second Act

Three: Lexi

Sam's eyes widened in concern. "Lexi, what's going on? You seem shaken up. Did something happen with Lily?"

I shook my head, trying to process my thoughts as my eyes went back ti the elevator. "No, it's not her. It's...it's Julian Blackwood."

Sam's expression turned puzzled. "The CEO of Blackwood Enterprises? What happened? Did you meet him?"

I hesitated, unsure how much to share, without her blaming me for it. However, she leaned in and with a sigh, I opened up.

"We argued. We bumped into each other, while I was waiting for you here. I apologised, but he was really rude and condescending. He yelled at me in the lobby, so I stood up to him. And then...and then an advertisement came on, and I found out he's the CEO. And I'm scared, Sam. I'm scared that I've blown it. That I've lost the deal before it even started."

Sam's face softened in understanding, as we walked into her car. "Lexi, you can't really think that. One small argument isn't going to dictate your entire future. You're an amazing event planner, and you've worked hard for this opportunity. Don't let his behaviour bring you down."

I nodded slowly, feeling a small sense of comfort. But the fear still lingered, gnawing at my insides. What if Sam was wrong? What if I had indeed blown it? What if Julian Blackwood decided to pull the plug on the deal because of our altercation?

I didn't think he would really do that, but maybe it was because I was thinking more about his slicked hair and dark framed glasses, instead of his thundering voice on the phone

Still, Sam sensed my doubts. "Lexi, focus on what you can control. True, Mr. Blackwood was rude to you, but you can’t control that. We'll continue working on this project, and show him that you're more than what he saw.”

I still wasn't convinced. “But what if–”

Sam held up a hand. “I'm not done. If he's not willing to work with you because of a little argument, then maybe he's not the kind of client you want to work with anyway.”

I took in a deep breath, trying to absorb Sam's words of encouragement. She was right. I couldn't let one argument define my future. Besides, what was really the worst that could happen?

“You know what? You're right,” I said, strapping the seatbelt across my body. “Let's go.”

***

Later that day, I found myself pacing back and forth in my office, my mind racing with worst-case scenarios. Despite my best friend's words of encouragement, I couldn't shake off the feeling of dread.

Once again, I looked around at my empty office, the magazines on my coffee table arranged neatly, just like the day they had been bought. By now, I assumed they would be well worn, showing evidence of use, but it was the exact opposite.

I needed money to change locations and upscale, do advertisements, bring in an assutant or two. Every vision of what I wanted for my job needed money. Specifically money from the gala to happen, and I would do anything to not lose it.

Before I started to think too much, I picked up my phone and dialled Sam's number. Thankfully, she answered on the second ring.

"Hey, Lexi! What's up?" Her cheerful voice picked up.

"I need your help," I blurted out, trying to keep my voice from shaking. "I can't stop thinking about the argument.” Whether she sighed, I couldn't tell, but I let the rest of my words tumble out. “What if he decides to cancel the deal? What if I've ruined everything?"

I heard a small rustling from her end as her tone turned serious. "Lexi, calm down, okay? we'll figure this out together. What do you need me to do?"

I took a deep breath. "Can you come with me to meet the creative director, or at least call her? I know we met her some hours back, but I need to be sure Mr. Blackwood didn't reach out and cancel everything.”

To my surprise, she didn't hesitate. "I'm on my way. We'll face this together, alright?"

I nodded and dropped the call, feeling a wave of gratitude wash over me. At the very least, I could be sure of where I stood with the job. Within minutes, she arrived at my block and we opted for a voice call. That way, we didn't have to intrude on the woman again. For now.

My heart raced with anxiety as the phone began to ring, while I mumbled the apology speech I prepared just in case. Beside me, Sam sat calmly, and I felt slightly jealous. How could she be so cool? If anything happened to the deal, it would affect her too. But then again, she didn't have just this job to depend on.

My best friend had a small chain stores left by her father before he passed, so she was quite stable. Even if this failed, she would still stay afloat. Unlike me.

The call connected. “Hello, Lexi, Sam, thanks for calling. What can I do for you?”

Sam leaned forward. “Lily, it's nice to see you again. So, Lexi had an altercation with Mr. Blackwood earlier today and umm…we just want to be sure it won't put a dent in the arrangements.”

She sounded so professional, and it took a lot for me not to hug her. However, my main focus was on Lily who smiled warmly.

“Oh, yeah, that. There's no need to worry about it."

I exhaled slowly, my tension easing slightly. "What do you mean?"

She leaned back in her chair. "Julian mentioned that you two had a run-in, but he didn't say anything about cancelling the deal. In fact, he seemed rather...amused by the whole thing."

I felt a surge of relief wash over me, but my ears still perked up. "Amused?"

The director nodded. "Yes. It was a refreshing change for him, not dealing with the usual sycophants over here.” Her face tightened as she said this, but she quickly masked it with another smile. “So, unless something else comes up, the deal is still on the table."

Sam squeezed my hand, a triumphant smile on her face. "See, Lexi? I told you it would be okay."

I let out a shaky laugh, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders. Thank goodness. “Alright then. Thank you so much for clarifying things.”

“Sure. I understand how Mr. Blackwood can seem hot headed at times, but I think you just caught him at a bad time,” she responded and held up a hand.

“Before you go, I looked through the theme ideas you sent and I'm seriously considering ‘A Night under the Stars’. It has this ring to it, and I think it would be perfect for the gala.”

"Thanks!" I said, beaming. "We wanted to create an atmosphere that would feel like transporting guests to a magical world.”

“Good. I love it!” She exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.

"And the decor?" the director asked, her pen poised over her notes.

"We're thinking a mix of dark blues and purples, with starry lights and projections to create a celestial effect," I replied, my mind racing with the details.

"Wow, that sounds breathtaking," the director said. "And entertainment?"

"We've got a few ideas," Sam said, grinning mischievously. "How about a live band, and some aerial performers to add a touch of whimsy?"

The director nodded, her smile growing wider. "Good, good. Let's make it happen, team!"

When the call ended, Sam and I glanced at each other. “You think she warmed up to you?”

“I think so.”