Part 2
Groaning, I cracked an eye open hearing my alarm. Sunlight poured into my room blinding me temporarily. I could feel the my head throbbing behind my now closed eyes. My cousin Alice had dragged me to a nightclub last night insisting that I get out and party it up a little. She said I couldn't live my life living out of my apartment and expect to meet people.
So I went. I expected it to be bad and for the most part it was. Especially the part where Alice left me alone at the bar to dance with her boyfriend. Even though, I know Jasper I still kept an eye on her. What can I say? She's family and the only person I can rely on. All night I felt eyes on me but I ignored them. Sure, there were some very nice looking men there but a club isn't my scene.
So, I ingested alcohol and danced with Alice when she pulled me onto the dance floor. Her boyfriend, Jasper, would stay back and I could see him talking to several others occasionally but keeping an eye on us. I never asked Alice about it. I doubt she even realized that he was doing it. It was nearing 2am and I was dead on my feet. We have been here since it opened at nine and I was ready to go.
Looking around for Alice, I was readying myself to flag her down and tell her that I was ready to go home when I saw a commotion near the VIP section. Jasper was hauling Alice over to it. A look on his face that I didn't recognize. He looked….pissed off, actually. They disappeared and I knew something was going on but unfortunately, I couldn't hear it. Sneaking over, with wobbly legs, I saw several people in the room.
All were standing around yelling at each other. There were two in particular. A dark haired girl wearing a black dress was yelling at a taller male who looked livid. When he turned away from the yelling woman, I caught a glimpse of his face and dear heavens in the sky he was gorgeous. A face of beauty that poets write about. My breathing labored as I kept my eyes on him.
My wobbly feet kept moving forward and their voices were loud enough now that I could almost hear the words. The girl, apparently, had done something to anger the gorgeous man. They seemed very close by their body language. Siblings, maybe?
In my drunken haze, I didn't see the girl barreling toward me followed by a man that was just a gorgeous as the one that was yelling. I could tell that she was angry by the way she kept trying to fend off the man chasing her. When I turned around, Jasper and Alice were heading my way.
"What was that?" I asked, indicating what I saw.
"It's nothing." Jasper said firmly. Hold on now!
"That…." I pointed toward the VIP area, "was something. Who were they?"
"Bella…." Alice pleaded, "please let it go."
"I said it was nothing." Jasper repeated as Alice was begging me to drop this.
Glaring at him, I let it drop. For now. Later on when I was sober and could corner Alice, I would ask her what was going on and who those people were. I mean, you don't just find gorgeous people anywhere. I know this is New York, but we're in Brooklyn for crying out loud. The clubs in Manhattan were swarmed with celebrities and were damn impossible to get into. So, that's why we were here.
That was last night…
Now a week later, I had yet to talk to Alice about what happened at "Club." She was busy with her art classes at NYU and I was maintaining my job at Denali's. I had, for a while, been a student as well but after losing my scholarship for one bad grade, I had to drop out and find a way to support myself. Thus found myself as a Room Service Attendant at Denali's. The owner, Alistair was good enough that he made sure I would have a job for as long as I needed it.
It didn't pay much but it was a job and Alice and I split a small apartment together. Her parents paid the rent while she was in school and now that I had a job, I chipped in with a bill or two and helped out on the groceries. I remember when I lost my scholarship, I called my mother begging for her help. She flat out told me no. My own mother refused to help me and told me to go find my real dad and beg him for money.
Then she hung up.
Problem: I didn't know my real dad.
That was a couple of years ago and I'm still at Denali's. Don't get me wrong, I love my work but I'm unsatisfied. I want more from my life. Something bigger, better. I know I'm not getting it here.
Dragging myself into work an hour later and fifteen minutes late, I hurried into the building pulling my hair up and trying to compose myself. Checking my uniform, I'm glad it wasn't wrinkled nor greasy stains. I tried my best to make sure I looked decent. Gail, my co-worker sneered at me as I rushed in. Tapping her watch, letting me know I was late, didn't improve my mood any. Clocking in, she handed me a stack of menus to go over and the floor that I would be covering for the day and part of the evening.
Walking into the kitchen, it was already a bustle for the lunch shift. With menus in hand, I took a breath and the phone begun to ring. Taking down an order, I logged it into the POS system that was sent toward the kitchen staff who would prepare it. If I wasn't taking my orders, I was helping prep food and making drinks. When my orders were done, I would make sure everything was signed off and the correct room would be billed.
I did this every day. There were days that we weren't busy and others where I was hopping around for almost ten hours at a time. While those shifts sucked, the money was fairly decent. It didn't matter how rude the guests were, I knew I had to keep up a cheerful demeanor.
We always had one guest that everyone hated. He would stay at Denali's every time he visited. Sad, when the other attendants refused to take care of him. This included delivering the food to the room. So, being the youngest, I got stuck with him. He always went by the initial "A" . Never told us his name or occupation. What I never told the rest of them was that he was a hell of a tipper. Always tipped me several hundreds just for bringing him his food.
Nice, right? I'd get fired if Alistair ever found out.
My life was just as boring. All I would do was work and go home. As much as I love Alice, I hated going out with her and her friends. All college artsy fartsy kids that sipped one to many latte's. She was exuberant and I loved her for it.
Alice is my cousin. Our mothers are sisters who eventually grew apart as the years wore on but that didn't stop Alice and I from staying as close as sisters. She had no other siblings and I was still an only child despite that my mother, Renee, had remarried her baseball husband, Phil. Alice's parents were still together and still happy.
When we were kids, we dreamed of living in New York and going to NYU. I was going to go for English Lit and Alice was going into fashion. Something, she says, she can't live without. It's like air to her. I just shake my head and smile at her when she starts. Lucky for me, she doesn't shop like she can't survive. If she's good and saves her money, don't stand in her way. She will take you down and make you shop for hours on end.
Lucky for me, that doesn't happen often. Not like I have the spare cash to spend.
We graduated Forks High in Forks, WA and we jetsetted across the country and set up shop in New York. Two small town girls living in the big city that each day threatened to eat us up and spit us out. We did well and we're still thriving.
While Alice spends her days now learning all she can about fashion and trying to make a name for herself, I'm working and paying for most of the basics in our apartment. She keeps telling me that she'll pay me back one day. That when she's big and famous, she'll do something for me.
All I want is to go back to college and finish my degree.
Easy enough, right?
I can't even apply for aid since my mother and Phil make too much money. I can't apply for independent until I reach a certain age. I mean, it's not like it's the end of the world. I'm still young, I have time but I really wanted it done before I hit thirty.
Then, about six months ago, she met Jasper. He was older, confident and very wealthy. She said they met at a nightclub. The same one that she dragged me too and I left with more questions than answers. They instantly hit it off and have been dating ever since. If she's not with him, she's at school. We spend at least two days a week together doing girl things so we don't disconnect.
She says that impossible for us to do. Disconnect. I mean, it happened to our mothers. Alice, thinking she can see the future, says we'll always be together. That one day everything will fall into place and we'll never be apart.
"Hey!" I hear Angie's voice. Snapping out of my reivere, she looks at me crossly.
"What?" I ask, trying to keep my cool. Yea, I know I was daydreaming at work. Not a very good thing to do when you're supposed to be taking all the orders.
"Do your damn job." she snapped and started to walk off. "Oh, by the way, Mr. A is here…"
I groaned loud enough that she thinks I hate the man too. He's creepy as hell but he tips great. Nodding at her, I grab the phone as it begins to ring. Never let it ring more than twice, says my boss. So unprofessional if these millionaires have to wait longer than five seconds.
Answering it, it is Mr. A. He must have recognized my voice because it sounded like he was smiling on the other end of the receiver. Taking his order, I typed it in and hit the send button. Making sure his room is charged properly, I ensure that everything is in order before printing and signing off on it.
Fifteen minutes later, Angie stomps over to me, "Get going. You're taking Mr. A's food up to him."
"Fine. Fine...I'll go." Oh buddy, tip for me!
Pushing the cart out of the kitchen area, I reach the elevators that would take me up to his floor. Waiting patiently, I felt my phone buzz. Most likely Alice wanting to do something later. Checking my watch it read 7:30pm. I had at least another hour left before I could leave and then I really didn't want to do anything once I got home.
The elevator dinged and the doors slid open to reveal the corridor. Reading over the card, I pushed the cart down the hall and found room 302. Knocking, I shifted from one foot to the next while I waited.
The door opened revealing Mr. A. He was impeccably dressed, like always. He had long black hair and he had a creepy, yet dangerous demeanor about him. Like he would kill a man just for looking at him wrong. He always gave me the creeps but I smiled and did my job like I was supposed too.
"Ah! Miss Bella, how lovely to see you again!" he crooned, stepping back and letting me into the room. I've seen these rooms so many times, the awe has been lost.
"Mr. A. Welcome back to New York. How is your trip so far?" I asked, pleasantly.
"It's fine, thank you for asking." He gave me a noncommittal smile.
Setting the cart to the side, I ran over the list of what he ordered, just to show that I was doing my job even though I know it's all correct. Satisfied with my work, I turned back to him, "Is there anything else I can get you?"
"Oh, no. This is wonderful. Thank you." He replied, keeping his face neutral. Reaching into his very expensive looking wallet, he procured a hundred dollar bill. Two, actually. This was the way it always was. Handing it out to me, I knew that I shouldn't accept it but the lure of an extra two hundred bucks was strong. Taking him from his loose grip, I gave him a smile and proceeded to leave the room.
When the door closed behind me, I leaned against the wall and took a breath that I wasn't aware that I was holding. Every time it was like this. He truly frightened and creeped me out. Gathering myself, I entered the elevator to head back toward the kitchen where the process would start all over again.
Finally clocking out an hour later, the money burning a hole in my pocket, I exited the hotel and hurried down the street. Trying to get as far away from my place of work as possible. I felt guilty, like I always did, for taking that huge tip. The guests weren't even supposed to tip us. But I needed the money. It helped build my little nest egg. I had over a thousand sitting in a jar that I kept hidden from Alice.
God forbid she'd find it. It would be immediately spent on clothes. Not like I needed any. Keeping to myself, I walked the three blocks to the Rockefeller Center Station to catch the subway to Brooklyn where Alice and I live. Paying for my ticket, I took a seat a few minutes later and proceeded to relax for the half hour ride back home.
Arriving at Prospect Park, I exited the smelly subway and hailed a cab. Thankfully, it's only a fifteen minute ride from the subway station to our apartment. Paying the driver, I headed up the stairs to our place.
Our place.
Yes, even after all this time, it still made me feel giddy. We would have preferred to live closer to Manhattan but when we looked at the rental prices, I swear I nearly cried. We, with the help of Alice's parents found us a nice place in Brooklyn. In Bay Ridge, to be exact. I didn't care where we lived as long as we never returned to Forks.
It was a two bedroom, one bath and I couldn't be happier. Alice hated that her closet was small but she made due since she wasn't paying the rent. She wouldn't have too until she graduated. Must be nice. Now, I sound bitter. Climbing the stairs, I pulled my keys out and unlocked.
Inside, it was all Alice inspired. I let her have loose with the apartment as long as she stayed out of my room. She happily agreed. Sitting in our living room was Alice and Jasper. Take out boxes were on the table and it smelled delicious. Poor Alice, while she may have a sense of fashion, cooking was not her calling. I did the cooking when it was just me and her and I could get home early.
"Hey! You're home!" Alice chirped, breaking away from her lip lock with Jasper. I rolled my eyes. She knows the rule. No face sucking or sex in the living room.
"Yea. Braved the subway everyday." I drawled. She stuck her tongue out and rolled her eyes. I hated that I worked but it kept me busy. "Hey Jas."
"Evening. Work went well?" he asked, like he did every time I saw him.
"Like clockwork. My huge tipper was there." I said taking a seat and grabbing a box of food. Pushing a box aside, I grabbed an unopened pair of chopsticks. Digging in, I didn't realize I was starving. I was immune to the food cooking at work that I was never hungry there.
"Ohh! He's great at tipping. How much he give you tonight?" Alice inquired curling herself into Jas.
"Two hundred. I swear, I'm afraid I'm gonna get caught." I replied quietly.
"Why would that be a problem?" Jas asked.
"We're not supposed to be tipped."
"And, like I always tell her, that's stupid." Alice said, smiling up at her man.
I instantly felt a twinge of jealousy. Don't get me wrong, I've had a few dates and a couple of boyfriends under my belt but none of them have stuck around. I was on the single mend again having broken up with my last boyfriend Eric. Looking at how happy they were made my heart yearn for that love feeling again.
We sat around and talked for another hour before I excused myself to shower. I had to be back at work the next day. Another ten hour shift. Waving goodbye to them, I discarded my clothes and jumped in the shower. Once I was done, I crawled my tired self into bed after I had put away my savings money.
Getting up the next day, I figured my life would be consistent as it was every day. Boy, today I was wrong. Sunlight streamed in my little room illuminating it and waking me up. Stretching, I tumbled out of bed and into the shower again. Needed to look like I cared about working there. Throwing my work clothes on, the apartment was quiet. Which was unusual because Alice was far from quiet.
Entering the kitchen, I could smell the coffee brewing. Well, at least she was nice enough to keep the coffee hot. Rummaging through the fridge, I realized we were out of milk. Closing the door, I opened the cabinets. They were practically bare. Time to hit the market and maybe get more than the basics.
Before I could decide that it would be best to grab and go, the front door burst open to reveal my hyperactive pixie cousin. In her hands were bags of something. God, I hope it's food she's brought. Last time she did this, I was beyond excited until I peeked in the bag and saw clothes. Her only argument was that she couldn't pass up a sale at Barneys.
"Oh good! You're finally awake." she said, setting the bags down on the counter.
"Alice…" I said slowly, looking warily at the bags, "please tell me that you got food this time."
Her laughter annoyed me slightly. "Of course I did! We have nothing in the cabinets or the fridge. I don't have class today so I got up extra early and shopped."
She shopped for food? My the world must be frozen over. Just to make sure, I took a quick peek out the window. Nah, still sunny out. Then it struck me, where did she get the money? Alice receives a small allowance every month from her parents par her trust fund they set up when she was a baby, but she normally blows it on clothes. Actually, this money she did blow her money on clothes. Something about a new pair of boots.
Well, OK, after she gave me her half of the bills.
I continued to watch her as she unloaded the bags and put things in their rightful spots. She had everything. Milk, eggs, bread, fruit, meats, pastas, cereals, etc. More food that what her allowance allowed her unless she saved up for a couple months.
"Um, Alice, I don't want to pry but where did you get the money from? Last I checked you blew this month's allowance on a pair of boots." I asked worry lacing my voice.
She looked at me sheepishly. Tucking her head down, I knew immediately she was up to something. "I...well…" she stammered, trying not to look at me. "Jas handed me a couple hundred dollars to food shop. I told him that you and I were going this Saturday but he shoved the money in my hands this morning before he left."
I glared at her. "What do you mean he gave you the money?"
"That's just it. He did. All he told me to do was spend it wisely."
"Has he done this before?" I demanded, my voice sounding incredulous even to my ears. What was she thinking?! If she needed money, all she had to do was make one phone call.
"Ye-yes he has." she replied truthfully.
"What are you now? Some kept woman?" my ire becoming more pronounced.
"How could you say that?" she asked tearfully. "Yes, he's given me money even if I haven't asked about it. He's bought me clothes and now he's stocked our kitchen with food. You'd think, Bella, you'd be a little bit more grateful." her voice ending with a sharp bite to it.
I opened my mouth to protest, but she cut me off. "I don't wanna hear it! He helped us out in a tight spot. I would have never asked for it myself. I know we're supposed to be this all 'independent woman hear me roar' but sometimes it's nice to have a helping hand."
With that said, she stormed out of the kitchen leaving me with my mouth to the floor. My hyperactive easy loving fun pixie cousin just handed me my ass. Truthfully, I hated when someone stepped in and did things for me. I always have. Always the mature one that could handle whatever life threw at me. It was right up there with hating parties and surprises.
And today, today I pissed my cousin off when someone was kind enough to help us out. Leaving the apartment quietly, I hailed my taxi to the station. On the half hour journey, I wondered to myself if I was really that ungrateful for that helping hand. I mean, Jasper didn't have to do it, but my question was why?
Why would he help us out? I know he's fond of Alice. You can tell when they're together. It makes me wonder if she put up a fight over it. Knowing Alice she probably didn't fight and didn't think another thought over it. She took the money and did what she was told. Buy food. Not shoes nor clothes. I, at least, have to give her a round of applause. She actually did what needed to be done without thinking about fashion.
Getting off the subway, I walked through the station and up the stairs toward the world above me. The sun was still shining here in Midtown and the crowds of people surrounded me like cattle. It was one those times where I actually missed living in Forks. The population barely crested 3,200 people. I love the hustle and bustle of the city but it could really do without all the people.
Keeping to myself, I ducked into a local bakery and ordered a danish and another coffee. I would be working ten hours again today and I needed the caffeine to keep me running. With danish and coffee in hand, I walked the last couple blocks to Denali's. When I arrived, Gail gave her me usual glare but this morning I ignored her. My mind fully occupied elsewhere.
"Hey Bella!" Dan, one of the other attendants called for my attention.
I stopped my rush toward the kitchens and turned around. "Yea?"
"We have a meeting in the conference room." he said gesturing for me to follow him. Shrugging, I followed him toward the barely used conference room. Everyone was already there sitting and chatting quietly.
Taking a seat beside him, I lowered my bag to the floor and proceeded to check my phone. I knew I had to apologize to Alice for my behavior this morning. I didn't mean to be ungrateful toward Jasper's kindness but I still think there was another motive behind it.
"Everyone! Can i have your attention, please!?" Alister called for us as he stepped toward the front of the room. The chatter instantly ceased. We all looked expectantly toward our boss.
"Now that I have your attention, I am here to inform everyone that we are expanding our business. We have excellent profits and staff that we are going to start catering toward small parties and businesses." he explained looking at all of us. This was good news. Means we would have more work and better pay.
"Yes, it's quite exciting. These plans have been in the works for a while now since we had a huge compliment a few months ago about the staff and service here and they asked if we catered. At the time, I told them no but as time went on the idea seemed quite fruitful." He paused to look at everyone. "So, this is how it's going to go. We are going to do small time catering services. Easy things such as platters, sandwiches, drinks etc."
"Everyone of you will participate. This includes making sure everything runs correctly while you are there. You will make sure that everyone has the appropriate drinks and food. Have surpluses if it's going to be rather large. You will help out. No exceptions. If we start gaining business, some of you will be moved toward catering while the others will stay here and tend to our hotel guests."
The quiet murmur was back. Everyone sounded excited that we were doing this. Hell, even I was and I'm not the most graceful of people. My only fear is being around others and screwing up. It's why I stayed where I was. All I had to do was set the food on the cart and have it delivered. It was easy work. I did prep work from time to time and cleaned but this was something different.
I would have to help set up the food, plate the food and drinks, help the staff out that was working to make sure the guests were taken care of. My luck-which wasn't much, I would trip over something and drown a guest in liquids.
"And so, we have our first party this coming Saturday. A list has been sent over and I will have four of you to work out the details." he explained happily. Waving his hand, we were dismissed back to our regular day.
Entering the kitchen area, the phone begun to ring. Grabbing it before I was yelled at, I sat down and filled out the order and send it back to the kitchen to be prepared. Making sure the correct room was billed, I signed off on it and took the next five calls. I didn't have time to think about the catering business nor the upcoming party.
Thankfully for my half hour lunch, I sat down in the employee lounge and opened my bag. Pulling out my sandwich, I hadn't taken my first bite when Lauren and Taylor sat down beside me. "Have you seen who's doing the party this Saturday?" she asked me.
Setting my sandwich down, I felt dread start to overcome me. "No, I haven't. Been busy all morning."
"Well, it's me, Dan, Rob and you." she said, opening her salad.
"Me?" I squeaked.
"Yep. You heard the boss. Everyone is going to do this. What? You thought you were exempt?"
"No...nothing like that. I just didn't think I'd be picked on the first party."
She sighed and almost rolled her eyes. "Well, better to go in and get it over with now…"
I had to agree. It was like the bandaid effect. Rip it off instead of peeling back slowly. The first hurt but the pain didn't last long. The second was agonizing and cruel. Picking up my sandwich again, I ate carefully knowing this was it until I got home tonight. I thought about texting Alice but it would be better if I apologized to her face. I could pick up her favorite food and ice cream. That was normally my 'go-to' for forgiveness and redemption. I had plenty of money on my card and I knew I would be picking up dinner tonight.
After my lunch, I went back to my shift and avoided my boss like the plague. I didn't want to be part of the first party of catering. I was so involved in making a variety of fruit salads that I didn't hear my boss come up behind me.
"Isabella!" he said, startling me. Dropping the knife, I'm glad I didn't cut myself.
"Yes, Mr. Greier?" I answered hesitantly. This was it. The asking, nay, the telling.
"You ready for the first catering party?" he asked.
Faking a smile, "Of course."
"Follow me."
Setting my stuff aside, someone stepped over and finished my job. Following my boss, we walked back to the conference room and there sat Lauren, Dan and Rob. None of them looked thrilled to be sitting there when they could be hiding in their work like I was trying to do. Taking a seat, I waited with trepidation for Alister to start.
"This upcoming weekend, you four will be the first to participate in our new catering business." he said, pausing. "Lucky for us, our first client will push for others to call upon us." he grabbed a folder and opened it scanning through the contents, "It's under the name of Cullen. They are well respected members of the city and have major influence."
Dan, like a school child, raised his hand, "What's the event for? I've heard of the Cullens and I know they, or at least the wife, does a lot of charity work throughout the year…."
Everyone stared at him like he had grown three heads, myself included. A blush formed over his cheeks and he looked down at his hands. "My grandmother talks about the Mrs. Cullen all the time and the work she does…" he confessed quietly.
Clearing his throat and shaking his head, "It's to help raise money for a local little league. Apparently, they are trying to get more equipment so that no kid has to buy their own."
"Why don't the Cullens buy it all for them?" Lauren sneered, "I mean, they're rich and all.."
"While that might sound like a good idea...it doesn't bring the community together." Alister explained as patiently as he could.
"What are we serving?" Rob asked.
"Easy things like sandwiches, salads, desserts. Basically anything you would find at a BBQ. Mrs. Cullen wanted it lowkey and open to the public." Alister answered while reading over the folder's contents again. "It might seem small but there will be people there that could help us out. This is why everyone needs to be present, courtesy, precise, and exemplary."
Easy things to do, but I know how I am. I drop something at least twice a week around here. The first couple of times I did it, I thought I was going to be fired, but now it seems it's a running joke if I make it the whole week without dropping or running into something. We went over a few other things but when he finally looked at the clock, most of us were supposed to be clocking out.
Getting up, I clocked out and grabbed my things. Not stopping to chit chat with my coworkers, I headed out into the city life again. The sun was finally setting and I could feel a touch of cool air swim around me. Shivering, I wish now I had brought a jacket. I was so concerned with my argument with Alice this morning that I completely forgot.
Walking the three blocks to the station, I paid my weekly fare and took my regular seat on the subway. I had learned the hard way when we moved here. Never rely on taxis to take you as far as Brooklyn. I felt broke as soon as I paid the driver. Arriving half an hour later, I took a taxi-only because I didn't feel like walking.
Telling him I wanted to go to Vesuvio, I sat back and watched the Bay Ridge area pass me by. Part of me could have walked but the other part feared I'd get hijacked and someone would take my food. Paying the man, I walked inside and smelled the divine Italian food. Alice and I loved this place. It was homey and the food was amazing.
Finding the take out counter, I waited in line for almost fifteen minutes before I got to the counter. Good thing, I already knew what I wanted.
"Hi! Welcome to Vesuvio. What can I get you?" the girl behind the counter asked.
"I'll have the Buongustaio with tortellini. Chicken francese, loaded baked potato. Then for the dessert I'll have two of the tartufo." I said, setting the menu down. When she rang up my food, I handed over my card praying I had enough. The dinner alone was pricey but it was going to be my redemption food. I knew Alice couldn't turn down the chicken francese nor the tartufo dessert.
Taking a seat, it would be another twenty minutes before my food was ready. That was fine. The food was worth the wait. Texting Alice, I told her that I would handle the cooking tonight. When she simply wrote back "K". I knew she was still upset with me. Sighing, I knew she was still mad at me.
Twenty minutes later, the server handed me my takeout and I stepped out of the restaurant bypassing a insanely gorgeous man and some strumpet that was hanging all over his arm. Shaking my head, I hailed a cab and climbed in. Giving the man my address, he sped off like a bat out of hell. Holding onto the food, I prayed I would arrive safely. New York taxi drivers have no clue how to drive.
Unlocking the front door, I stepped into the living room. The apartment seemed quiet. Which was odd considering how loud Alice can be. Setting the food down on the table, I dug through the bags and produced the desserts. Placing them in the fridge, I went in search of Alice. Knocking on her closed door, I waited to be let in. No use invading her privacy when she was still angry with me.
The door opened slowly revealing a very sad looking Alice. I groaned inwardly. She hated when we fought. In fact, she hated when anyone fought. Her cheerful and hyperactive demeanor couldn't handle all the negativity.
"I-have dinner here." I said slowly keeping my eyes on her.
She nodded mutely and I turned to head back toward our tiny dining room table. Pulling her food out, I set it down and then did the same for mine. Grabbing two forks, I wish I would have grabbed a bottle of wine but tea would have to do. I sat down in my chair and waited on her. It didn't feel right to eat without her.
A few minutes later, she walked quietly into the dining room and took a seat. When she opened the lid of her food, her eyes lit up. Giving me a smile, I returned it knowing I was shit to her this morning. We ate in silence until we were halfway done.
"Alice," I started, setting my fork down, "I'm sorry about this morning. I didn't mean to sound ungrateful for something that someone did for us. I mean, well, damn, I know we try to do everything on our own -especially me and I couldn't see past the possibility of pity from Jasper. That we didn't have the food in the cabinets that he had to buy them."
"You know this wasn't pity, Bella. He was just being nice. I didn't protest because I knew it would be worthless to fight with him over it. This was the first time he's been serious about something when it comes to money. He knows we can take care of ourselves." She said quietly, still. I hated when she was quiet.
Dessert would change her mood.
"I realize that now. I've had all day to think about it. Forgive me?" I asked, hoping she would.
"Of course I do. I didn't tell Jas what happened this morning. He hates to see me upset."
I nodded and we finished our dinner. We made small talk about work and school. She was over the moon about being chosen to design a dress for someone important. It would make her career if she got noticed now while still in school. When I told her about the new catering business we have going she about choked.
"Cullen?" she gasped.
"Yea, what of them?" I asked thoroughly confused.
"They're like one of the richest families in New York. It's probably the wife, Esme Cullen who is sponsoring the event. She's very big into things like this. Always helping out where she can. I don't know much about them since Jas doesn't take me to see them…"
"Wait!" I interrupted, "You know these people?"
"I-uh, sort of do." she mumbled. "I've met, briefly, the son before. He's handsome but a total dick. He was there the night we all went to "Club."
Ohhhh...so that was him. Yes, I definitely remember him….
"I remember that. Who was the girl he was fighting with?" I asked trying to sound like I wasn't prying.
"I think it was his sister. She was doing something he disapproved of." Alice shrugged not caring either way.
"He acted like an asshole if you ask me." I said, getting up from the table and heading over to the freezer. Grabbing both tubs of dessert, I dug around the drawer for some spoons. Handing Alice her dessert and spoon she squealed and popped the lid open.
"He is and you are spoiling me! First, my favorite dinner and now my favorite dessert."
"Well, I had to have a way to make sure you accepted my apology…." I teased, yet being quite serious.
"I would have done so without the food incentive, you know that. But this is quite nice." she said, moaning as she took a bite of her dessert.
Following her lead, I took a bite of my own and nearly swooned. I love this stuff. I could seriously get fat off it. Good thing my job keeps me moving or I would be. Once finished, I looked sadly at my take out box and sighed. It was all over.
At least for now.
Alice and I cleared the table and she cleaned the kitchen up while I showered. The least she could do she told me as she pushed my stinky ass toward the shower. Grateful for it, my shower was what I needed. This weekend was too soon for my taste.
I woke up the morning of the catering party a nervous wreck. Getting ready, I prayed that I would fall sick and someone would take my place. Alice wished me luck before skipping away to work on her project dress.
Unfortunately, I was still fine when I walked into Denali's half an hour later. Pulling my hair into a classy, but messy bun I clocked in and headed toward the conference room where I would meet Lauren, Rob, and Dan. As I stepped into the room, they were all sitting around looking a little green. I couldn't blame them. I didn't feel it either. I mean, we are used to taking orders and taking care of our guests, but this felt different. We weren't servers who were used to doing things like this.
Taking a seat, I looked at everyone and gave a tight smile. Within minutes of taking my seat, Alister walked into the room with a box. Giving us all a bright smile, I know we all faked one back to him. He was the only one that was eager for this. Everyone I've talked to dread when it's their turn.
"These will be your uniforms for today. Please try not to tear them up or ruin them." he asked, setting the box down on the table. Opening it, he began handing out the shirts. It had our names and Denali's monogrammed on it. It was a nice shirt, not much more than what we wore on a daily basis.
Taking it from Alister's hand, I sat it down on my lap and waited on him to finish handing out the rest. When done, he dismissed us to change. Coming back a few minutes later, I felt no different except more nervous. Fifteen minutes later, we were heading out of Denali's with explicit instructions on how to get to Prospect Park.
Brooklyn.
I should have guessed. Shaking my head, we climbed into the van after loading it with foods and drinks. We were going to help cater a luncheon for the Holy Name Father's Guild. The only thing I know about them was that they were a non-profit, so therefore they would always need sponsoring and funding from the community.
Roughly forty minutes later and after one wrong turn, we finally arrived at Prospect Park. Telling Rob that we need to enter at the Willink entrance. Making a turn, he maneuvered us on Flatbush Ave and Empire Blvd. There should be parking close by where we can park and begin unloading.
Turning into the park, I directed him to the parking spaces where we could unload the food. Alister didn't tell us it was at the Lefferts Historic House. I've always wanted to come here. I knew the park well, but never had the time to come over and learn about the house and the historic activities they offered.
Getting out of the van, I shivered as a wind blew past us. Reaching in, I slipped on my jacket. Hearing the doors open, Rob and Dan begun pulling the boxes of food and cold containers out of the van. Stepping in to help, I grabbed the handle of a cooler and begin walking toward the Lefferts House.
When we arrived, there were plenty of tables for us to place the food. Lauren set two small boxes down on the table and ripped them open. Inside were plates and silverware. The other held napkins and cups. Reaching down, I opened my cooler to find the containers of assorted ready pre-made drinks for the event. They were surrounded by ice but I figured it wouldn't hurt to leave them in there. Closing it, I followed Lauren back to the van.
We all worked in silence. None of us felt like talking today. Like anyone would be talking to us anyway. Except for the host. She might, but someone as well known as Mrs. Cullen wouldn't give two cents about us.
Once we were settled in, it would be another fifteen minutes before Mrs. Cullen would arrive. We had purposely arrived early and had things taken care of to show our professionalism. Taking a look at everyone, I could tell that everyone seemed a little too quiet today. Alister's influence. He wanted us to act the part...so we would. For today.
A black Bentley pulled up the paved driveway and parked. Impressed by the car, I tried to peer inside but to no avail. The windows were far too tinted. A driver got out of the front and quickly walked around to open the door.
Out stepped a woman that my limited vocabulary could describe. She was beautiful with dark brown hair accented with caramel highlights. Her eyes were hidden behind dark sunglasses. She looked like she stepped off a runway. Behind her, was another female that was just as equally beautiful.
Her hair was long, curly and black as night. Like Mrs. Cullen she was dressed just as impeccably. She was much younger than Mrs. Cullen, I'm assuming it was her daughter. Though, I'm not sure this was the one that Alice mentioned. From where I was standing she seemed to be down to earth. Looking at these women made realize how lowly my clothing seemed to be.
Dan stepped forward to introduce us and himself. That he was Alister's representative. I concealed a snort. Liar. He had been chosen to talk because none of us wanted that gig. Sadly for him, he was the charming one out of all of us as well.
Before he could continue on about the menu, another car pulled up. I'm not car savvy so I couldn't tell you what it was but it looked expensive. Just like the Bentley. When the door opened, a god stepped out. I had to keep myself together because I knew I was in danger of drooling.
He was tall, had bronze colored hair-which seemed odd but it suited him. And did I mention it was wild? Like fuck me hair? Jesus, I wanted to grip it and tug hard. When he pulled his sunglasses off his face, my heart sunk.
It was the asshole from the nightclub a few weeks ago.
Reigning in my roaring libido, I sighed and shook my head earning a weird glance from Lauren. I shook my head and continued to ignore her. Shifting from one foot to the next, I waited impatiently to begin my job and end it. I wanted to go home, bitch to Alice about said Adonis-like asshole and eat a tub of ice cream.
Getting the hint a few minutes later, I followed the rest of my team around the house while the Cullens maneuvered inside to look around. I was assigned to make sure everyone stayed hydrated. Wonderful. With my clumsiness, I'm sure I'll ruin an expensive outfit today.
I must be psychic or something because that's exactly what happened. I had been doling out drinks successful for nearly an hour when I noticed I was running low on a pineapple juice that seemed to favor well with the coconut rum that was starting to run low again. I was on my third bottle. I didn't see him, I swear. I was busy reaching under the table and into the cooler to pull another the pineapple juice.
Pouring the juice in the strainer, I shook the container mixing the contents up before pouring. As I was handing it to the man, my fuck hot eye candy appeared. Instead of handing the man the drink, my eyes were focused on eye candy. Hands clashed, I lost my handling and pineapple coconut rum spilled all over the man's jacket.
"Oh my God!" I screeched far too loudly for my taste. Hastily handing the man several napkins, I chewed my lower lip as he wandered away scowling. Great….Just fucking great.
"Bad day?" the smooth voice of my eye candy spoke up.
I swallowed hard, "Just another day…."
"I need another refill…." he demanded, handing me his drink. "Rum and coke will do this time. And please try not to spill it on me."
I couldn't tell if he was playing or being an asshole. Luckily, when I handed him his drink back, he gave me a panty dropping grin and left. I had to stop myself. He was an asshole for crying out loud! Get it together Bella.
Within the hour, the party/fundraiser was over and we begin packing our things up. From a distance I could see the man that I had spilled the drink on talking to Mrs. Cullen. The frown that marred her face reminded me of when I would get in trouble with my mom. Giving the man a fake smile, she sauntered over and pulled Dan aside.
"You're so fucked…" Lauren snidely spoke up.
Looking back at her, I glared at her. "How would you know?"
"Mrs. Cullen is talking to Dan. Dan will tell Alister if Mrs. Cullen doesn't call him first. You are so fucked." she reiterated.
I groaned knowing that she was telling the truth. I was, indeed, fucked.
Once we were packed and ready to leave, I kept my head down. I knew things were going to get bad real quick when got back to work. No one even looked at me. It was like they all knew….I'd be fired or written up. I'd take a write up anyday. I know it's just a slap on the wrist at the time, but it still sits in my personnel file.
Arriving backa little over an hour later, I prayed that Alister wouldn't call me into his office. After helping unload the van, I moseyed around the kitchen for a few minutes before taking a deep breath and leaving. Once I had left, there was no turning back. Rounding a corner, I heard my name being called.
"Bella! Would you please step into my office?" Alister asked promptly.
Swallowing hard, I nodded slowly. I couldn't let him see me scared. Following him to his office, I wiped my sweaty palms on my black slacks. My shoes felt too tight as if they were protesting this walk. Opening the door, he let me in before him.
Taking a seat across from him, he gave me a genial smile, "I received a call about the party we catered. Firstly, well done for the job that we were given. Mrs. Cullen had nothing but good things to say about us. However, she did tell me there was a complaint."
I kept looking him in the eye. I was busted. Caught. Do not pass go...do not collect. But I had to show no fear. This wouldn't be the first job and certainly not the last that I could potentially lose. He watched me patiently, waiting to see if I would collapse under his scrutiny and start babbling. If that happened, next thing I know I would really be out of a job. I'd spill the beans about my tip friendly guest.
When he knew I wouldn't collapse, he sighed. "She mentioned how you spilled a drink on a guest of hers. She was told that you weren't paying attention and rather looking at someone instead of doing your job. Is this true, Bella?"
Nodding my head, I figured best to tell the truth. At least, if he did fire me, I would have a decent call back. Other than my acute clumsiness, I was a damn good worker. That had to count for something and I made it over an hour before I fucked up.
He sighed again, this time with a little less patience, "I like you Bella. You're a good girl and a good worker, but I can't have these kind of accidents. Do you understand?"
Oh yes, I understood perfectly. "Are you firing me?"
"No, I'm not. But I am writing you up. I can't have this, Bella." he reiterated, "Anymore accidents or write ups, I will have to fire you."
I nodded again. We sat there in silence while he filled out the paperwork for my write up. Leaning forward, I watched as he wrote about the incident and how it was handled. Handing it to me a few minutes later, I quickly scanned it reading it. I have never seen a write up, let alone be issued one. Taking the pen from him, I signed it.
"H-have a good day, Alister." I said with a slight stutter.
He nodded and turned back to his computer. Leaving his office, I closed the door. Leaning against the wall, I sighed. A write up. At least it was just that, but I knew he was serious. Anymore fuck up's and I would be out of a damn job. Grabbing my things from my locker, I closed up and headed out. I wanted to go home and sleep for a week. Heading into the subway, I found a seat and prayed for a quick trip.
A week later, I was still walking on eggshells at work. Alister didn't ask me to come along on the next trip that was being catered and I was thanking every deity in the history of deities that he didn't ask me. But he asked Lauren and for the past week, I had to listen to her bitch.
She didn't want to go. She wanted to stay behind and work like always. You'd think that she would love going. All the people she could meet, but no. She hated it. Hell, I would go just for the overtime. Extra money was always a welcomed sight. Then she found out that I wasn't and Hell broke loose. Another reason to be foul and bitter.
Luckily for me, the next advent was at nightfall. I would do some hideous damage at nighttime. If Alister thought that me spilling a drink on someone while ogling fuck-hotness was bad, imaging what I would if I was surrounded by darkness. I was meant for the light. This time the advent had something to do with a new book that was being launched. How I wished I could have been to that one! The authors I would get to see as well as an editor or publisher. The questions I would ask.
Lauren complained the entire Friday afternoon that she had to work Saturday night and had to be around boring people who write books. It was grating on everyone's nerves and Dan was ready to run to Alister and beg him to swap Lauren out. Poor guy was frantic and ready to tear his hair out.
Finally, one of the cooks yelled at her, "Will ya shut the fuck up Lauren?!"
She didn't open her mouth for the rest of our shift. A first, unless she was sick for a few days. We all reveled in those days of silence and the lack of bitchiness.
Grabbing my bag for the end of my shift, I was almost out the door when someone jerked on my arm. Screeching, I was pulled down a dimly lit narrow hallway. Looking at my would be kidnapper, I scowled seeing Lauren's pissy face.
"Take my shift tomorrow night!" She demanded without using manners.
"Sorry Lauren. I'm not. Alister wrote me up and told me that I wasn't to do anymore." I half lied to her.
"Bullshit! I know you fucked up the first time, but you got this." she protested angrily.
Shaking my head at her, "No, I'm serious. He said no."
"But it's with all those writer people. You're good at talking to those kind of people. I'm not." she countered.
"If you got an issue, take it up with Alistair. If I could, I'd do it for the overtime, but I can't," I turned to leave the hallway, "See ya later." I mustered out before stepping outside in the cool spring air.
What my stupid self didn't realize was that Lauren was pissed off and when pissed off she would retaliate. At least, if she did, I could come back to this conversation and find a good argument and fight it. If she was gonna get me fired, I'd make sure she would be too. I hoped I could pull it off.
After that weekend, Lauren didn't say another word to me about taking her shifts. I was happy for it. At least, for a while I did. Between work and home and occasionally seeing an absentee Alice, I was wishing for a vacation. Summer would coming soon and everyone but me had put in time off for said vacation.
Alice. Now I haven't seen her much in two weeks. I know that school and Jasper have her completely booked to the point that I'm not sure that she's been shopping lately. Oh sure, I see her most nights. We do try to eat every night but once dinner is done, she hurries off to her room for school work or skipping out the door when Jasper calls.
I didn't mind. Really, I didn't. If she was happy, so was I. It's a true cop-out but there wasn't a line of gentlemen callers banging on my door for my gentle smile and intriguing conversations. And if there was, I'm not sure how long they would last in the proverbial waiting room.
What I didn't realize was that things were about to go south quickly. The day that my life screwed up, I had woken up late, missed the subway, had to take a cab to work. Yea, great...more money that I have to waste.
So far, not a good morning. Stepping into work nearly two hours late, I was cringing for a huge fallout. Pushing the door open after I had clocked in there stood Alister. Sighing, he shook his head, "What happened?"
"Severely bad morning. Missed the subway and had to take a cab. I never knew that traffic was that horrible. I am sorry I am late. I can't say that it won't happen again, but I will try to make sure it doesn't." I really didn't. I took the subway as much as I could. It was far cheaper than spending forty bucks or more for cab fare.
Happily enough, he nodded accepting my apology and excuse for being late. Brushing past him, I wound my way to the back and past the kitchen where my daily log would be waiting on me. Grabbing my clipboard, I sighed seeing that I already had several orders that needed to be filed and sent to the kitchen.
Sitting down heavily, I set the clipboard down and pulled my hair up. Logging in, I sighed and begin punching the keyboard. Every hour or so, I'd get another phone call. And another log in. It seemed that today of all days was going to be super busy. There wasn't anything going on...no holidays or events.
I don't think. I can't afford to go, I don't pay attention.
About halfway through my day, I was busy helping out in the kitchen. In the middle of slicing fruit, Lauren came in snarling. "Mr A is here and I don't want him!"
"I'll take him." I offered giving her a congenial smile. I loved it when Mr. A showed. There would be a nice tip in my pocket before the day was over with.
I never caught the evil glint in her eye, "Would you? He's already ordered and the food should be ready shortly. I'll claim it and let you take it up." she said calmly, almost nicely.
I should have been suspicious, but the money called me like a bee to a flower. Nodding at her, I finished up what I was doing and cleaned my area. I didn't have to wait long. Mr. A ordered the same thing off the menu every time. Pushing the cart out of the kitchen, I headed straight for the elevator.
I never saw Lauren sneaking toward the stairs.
Up the building I went. I could smell the food from my place and I wondered why he always chose the same thing. Maybe I would ask him. He was always nice to me. Sometimes too nice. Sometimes, I wondered why he even bothered to tip knowing that wasn't our policy to take the money. A million thoughts raced through my mind about his motives. Could it be that he was simply nice?
When the elevator dinged, I took a breath and pushed the cart out and took a right. Six doors on the left was where he was staying at. Funny, he always stayed on my floor. Shrugging, I knocked and waited. I didn't have to wait long.
The door opened a little but then it flew open. "Ah! Miss Bella..It is so wonderful to see you again, but you weren't the lady I spoke with earlier, no?"
I gave him a smile. "It's wonderful to see you as well. No, I wasn't. That was another co-worker. I offered to bring your cart to you for her."
"A generous woman you are!" he beamed at me. Taking a closer look at him, I noticed that something seemed off. His accent was thicker and much more noticeable this time. I said nothing. I even forgot about my million questions that I was going to ask him.
He stepped aside and let me push the cart of food in. Setting it the closest to the large eating table as I could, I read over the card again and made sure everything was correct. Feeling satisfied, I turned back toward him. I never asked for the tip nor expected it. He must have not realized I had stepped out of the room until he heard the door closing.
Swinging it open from behind me, I felt the whoosh of air. "I almost forgot this time!" He said quietly and reaching into that same expensive looking wallet and procured two hundreds. My eyes widened seeing him drop an extra fifty in the pile. Refusing to say something, I gave him a smile and a wave.
I never heard the click of a phone either.
Skipping merrily down the corridor after pocketing my huge tip, I waited eagerly for the elevator. Stepping inside, I ignored the incredible looking guy that stepped off. Frowning, he looked familiar but I couldn't place him. Maybe I had seen him somewhere in a drunken haze? That had to be it. One of Alice's wild night ideas. For all I know he could be a stripper. That has happened in my line of work.
Reaching the ground floor, I strolled down toward the kitchens when I heard Alister's voice again. This time he looked tired and a bit disappointed. Fear crept into my heart and it began beating like a hummingbird. "Bella, can you please join me in my office?"
Nodding nervously, I saw this as a bad sign. My bad day was about to get worse. Following him down the hall, he led me to his office. Wasn't I just here a few weeks ago? Sighing quietly, I followed him and he opened the door. Inside I felt dread sleeping heavily. I was in big trouble. I could feel it in my bones.
Taking a seat across from him, he went from tired and disappointed to almost angry, "Bella when I hired you you were given an list of rules and the policies we follow at Denali, correct?"
'Yes, I did." I replied.
"Did you read them?" he asked. I nodded again. "Did you happen to read where you are not allowed to receive tips?"
My heart sank. Someone had ratted me out. Someone had finally thrown the towel in and snitched on me. I was fired now. I just fucking knew it. I was cordial to everyone here but there was always someone in the workplace that had a beef with you and would never confront you about it. It was like this everywhere.
"I-I did." I stumbled, answering him honestly.
"And for how long have you been receiving tips from Mr. A?" he asked, trying to keep his composure.
"Several months now."
"Did you tell him that you don't accept the tips?"
I nodded. Useless to use my voice now, it seemed. He sighed again. Shaking his head at me like a disappointed parent to a child, "Bella, this is the second time you've been in my office. The first was accidental but this is deliberate. I am going to have to fire you."
BOOM.
DONE.
OVER.
I was fired.
