Author's Note: This story is partially pre-written, which means that I shouldn't have to be going on hiatus or dropping the story like I usually do. But it also means updates may come a bit more slowly, do to the fact that I'm so lazy when it comes to writing. But I hope you'll stick with me.

Thanks for everyone who gave back in the previous posting, I'm glad you're all getting a liking to this, but I hope you get a better one.

This story is written for IndependenceIndividuality who is the coolest Muslim ever, and she's totally writing me a punk-Nessie, which I'll probably pimp here when it's out. Thanks to MrsKatyCullen for beta'ing. She spots out my laziness and makes this story more readable than it was, plus she's generally fuck-awesome. Another thanks to Reachingasifall who made a beautiful banner, which can be found on my profile.

(7/26) Thanks to Project Team Beta and their beta's remylebeauishot and quothme for touching this chapter up.


Blueberry Sundaes

"I did not have three thousand pairs of shoes. I had one thousand and sixty."
Imelda Marcos

Chapter One – Distance is Key

Nessie Cullen stared at her cell phone screen. It was full of missed calls and messages from her family; they were rather worried, yet hopeful. She had just flown from Washington to Paris, France—a rather challenging move, especially because she had traveled by herself. Her aunt, Alice, would soon be arriving, only so Nessie could have someone she knew with her in such a foreign and alien place. Other members of her family wanted to join her, but they couldn't get off work. It was her idea to have her aunt, who was recently divorced and a freelance writer, to accompany her on this grand summer trip. Nessie was excited to have her aunt with her, but that was a few hours away. Until then, she would have to suffice with making it on her own, a thought that sent her stomach in knots.

Nessie was glad to be in Paris, but she knew nothing of the culture. She wasn't given enough time to study the language or anything in general. One day she got the letter from Legend Magazine, her top choice to work and was invited to intern for the summer in France—which was a completely prestigious offer; not many would pass it up. Soon after, she was being put on a plane and was sent away from all she knew, from everything she was comfortable with. Her independence would be tested, and it left butterflies in her stomach. It made her sad to be away from her family, but in the long run, she knew it was worth it. After all, it was an honor to even be considered as a employee for the fabulous, popular Legend Magazine that so many loved; the magazine that was full of lively colors and beauty that left one breathless.

The plane rides were long and enduring, and never being able to find one place of solitude really turned her off. Often, Nessie wondered if she should just back out and go home, but with each destination taking her closer to the beloved place of importance and hopefulness, she found herself wanting to get there faster. She hardly got any sleep, and she would have enjoyed sleeping the day away when she arrived to Paris, but the magazine company, which was currently located in the beautiful country, wasn't ready to give Nessie time to settle; they wanted her now.

Luckily for Nessie, they knew that she'd probably have problems finding the building, seeing as how she didn't speak a lick of French. She had been assigned to a mentor who would help guide her throughout her summer journey. In fact, the worker was the first person she'd really gotten to know here.

The young woman, who was a New York native, picked Nessie up at the airport, rich with smiles and welcomes. She held a sign that read "Nessie Cullen," making Nessie's search easy and full of relief. She made her way through the crowded, excited people, who were all determined to also get out of the crowd. She took in Angela's appearance and friendly demeanor, glad that she knew she wasn't causing someone else distress by playing chauffeur.

The blonde wore a smock dress detailed with a grey and tan plaid design and made out of cotton. It was an original Tanya Denali, who only designed clothes for Legend Magazine's own clothing line. Nessie had the same one at home, which was more of a grey-blue. Her shoes were also Denali; simple, tan ballet flats. Her hair was straight and blonde with darker highlights, yet it was cut with simple layers, and her bangs framed her face perfectly. In Nessie's eyes, Angela was adorable; she was glad to see they shared the same style.

"Welcome to Paris," the young woman greeted with a bright, toothy grin and a comforting hand shake.

"Thank you." Nessie sighed. She was glad to be around something she was familiar with. Kindness.

"I'm Angela, I'll be your," she searched for the correct word, "tour guide while you're here…Actually, I'll be your everything. From a co-worker, to a friend, to…well, whatever you need. I'm your gal!" She was so cheery and a little embarrassed at her lack of ability to pin point what exact role she'd play in Nessie's life while she was here. Nessie liked her very much and was glad that this would be the woman she'd be able to go to.

"You already know who I am," she laughed while shaking her hands with Angela's.

"That, I do." Angela giggled.

Angela motioned for Nessie to follow, and thoughtlessly, she began to help with the luggage Nessie carried. At first Nessie was shocked when she felt someone tugging at her luggage, but soon realized they'd be in safe hands. The two walked through the busy airport, which smelt of cinnamon and leather, a reminder of her Uncle Jasper, who was currently working in Texas. It was an unusual combination, but she'd grown accustomed to it—even though she never really did care for it. But once they stepped out of the large, wide glass doors, Nessie was glad to be outside.

It was her first official look at Paris from the ground. The sky was a crystal clear blue, and the air was warm, making her feel immediately at ease. The people walking the busy, loud streets seemed confident and yet ordinary; some wore name-brand clothing and some wore rags. It was normal to Nessie, and she felt a bit more at ease that she could easily fit in with people who understood her sense in fashion. The only thing that made her feel off was the language everyone spoke, and the signs she couldn't read. It made her worry. What if she got lost and couldn't find her way back? But then she remembered that Angela would be with her for the first part, and then her aunt. She had to have faith that things would go well, even if the second thoughts and butterflies in her stomach said otherwise.

The two got into a rental car that was parked not too far from the airport. The blue car was rather small and very opposite; she was used to the driver's side being on the left, not the right. Nessie couldn't help but laugh, and Angela stared at her questioningly—but soon joined in.

Nessie oohed and awed at the beautiful town and city. The buildings were vibrant and colorful, full of life and so much history. The green of the plants and grass seemed so alive, as if it had a mind of its own. It was almost as if she were in a movie. She took a deep breath, feeling the happiness soar through her limbs.

"I'm sorry that we can't go sightseeing today," Angela said sadly.

Nessie shook her head, a soft smile on her lips. "It's alright, really, it is. I don't mind waiting. Plus, I'm in Paris about to work for the one thing I live for. I really can't complain about anything right now."

"I bet you're excited. I was when I first got the job."

Nessie smiled and relaxed in her seat. "I'm so excited I could puke, but that just might be the jetlag."

Angela laughed freely, and Nessie took in the sound. She was euphoric at this point, full of bliss and anticipation for her first day on the job. She'd been dreaming about this moment for the past week, and now that the moment was here, she couldn't feel any other emotion. She was growing a high from it and felt invincible toward the world stirring beneath her tapping feet.

"I feel like I've died and gone to heaven," she said to Angela, who was driving rather cautiously down the busy, traffic-filled streets. It made Nessie curious, but she didn't feel like getting into details about that. She was simply living in the moment.

"I just hope that things go well for you." Angela spoke with a quiet, nervous tone that didn't go unnoticed by the passenger.

"What do you mean?" Nessie asked, feeling suddenly worried.

"Well, the internship that you were…rewarded was something most people want—what most people strive for. You get to work with the boss, who rarely lets anyone that's not a close friend or family member anywhere near him." Angela snapped her attention to Nessie, a serious look in her hazel eyes.

"People will be jealous of you for this, Nessie, and it wouldn't surprise me if some of them did really low things. You need to watch out for yourself, and be careful of who you let in. Anyone can be out to get you."

Nessie pursed her lips. "Why?"

"Because they want what you've got—a chance to become the editor and heir of Legend Magazine."

"What?" Nessie gasped, not sure if she was shocked at the fact that people would sabotage her, or the fact that she could possibly become the new name and face of Legend Magazine.

"It's probably just a rumor, though. But nobody wants to take the chance of letting an opportunity like that go, even the ones who don't have a chance in hell; especially Victoria Lavolonté. She's really, really involved with her work and would kill to be in your shoes."

"But I'm not even getting paid," Nessie said, starting to get a little infuriated over how big of a deal it was that she'd gotten this offer.

Angela drove a little farther, steadying herself for the curveball she was about to throw in Nessie's direction.

"Ness," she began, "Legend Magazine doesn't offer internships…well, not like this. Yours is a really big deal, seeing as how you get to work with the creator and boss. Nessie, you will be a big asset to this company. How? No one knows quite yet, but it's going to be huge. It's making a lot of people mad."

"I don't understand," Nessie groaned as she put her head in her hands. Things went from great to horrible in a matter of seconds. She hadn't been expected this; she just thought it was a regular, normal, internship. She thought this was good thing. She thought this was some form of miracle, but instead she found it too be something more.

"Just know that this is a real honor for you. Just watch your back, because people will try to break it. I've seen it happen before, and it was rather tragic. I have faith in you."

Nessie was grateful for Angela's honesty, and glad that she knew she had a loyal friend. But truthfully, this was not what she wanted. She came here to learn and to discover, not to be some form of pet for the owner. Sure, she'd love to be the one behind the magazine, but not this one—it was already someone else's.

"You're tired," Angela spoke, immediately sensing Nessie's sudden change in moods. "Why don't you rest for a bit? We'll be there in about a half hour or so."

Nessie smiled at her new friend, yet it wasn't the happy smile she had previous to all of this. It was more of a nonchalant smile, one that was there to make someone else happy. But she would willingly accept Angela's offer of sleeping for a few minutes. God knew she needed just a speck of unconsciousness in her wildly living body.

She nodded, nestled her head against the seat and looked towards the side window, feeling the warmth of the sun on her face. With one last sigh she closed her eyes, falling asleep in the smooth, calming car. She slept peacefully, not even a single dream fluttering past her.

However, she really wished her sleep could have lasted longer than the thirty minutes she was allowed. It wasn't enough sleep, and her body really wanted more. She groaned as Angela shook her, but eventually she gave in, yawning loudly and staring sullenly at the things around her.

"Sorry, Ness," Angela said with a guilty look.

"It's not your fault." Nessie yawned once more, running her hands through her red, tousled hair, attempting to tame it.

"I know. You're just so tired. I really think you should just go home and rest. Hell, they may not let you in because you're not taking a little bit of down-time for yourself.

Nessie gave up trying to fix her hair and pulled her red locks into a ponytail. "It's like you said, I'll have time to do the things I want later."

"Alright, we should probably get in there."

Angela stepped out of the car that was parked next to a red building. It was nearly ten stories high and was an ordinary building. It matched the entire neighborhood, which all seemed to be small businesses and apartments. They were rather dashing and impressive; it lightened Nessie's mood.

Nessie followed Angela to the glass doors. At that moment she felt the butterflies return, and she had to stop herself from smiling widely and doubling over and fainting. This is it, she thought. Legend Magazine—everything you live for. Don't make a fool of yourself.

She had given herself the same pep-talk before leaving her house. Nessie had stared at herself in her bathroom mirror, glaring ruthlessly at her own green eyes, speaking above a whisper so she wouldn't catch the attention of her family. It was enough to keep her nerves at bay, and her confidence to stay at a certain level of modesty and the ability to stay calm when things seemed to falter. It was advice her Uncle Jasper had given her, and she took it to heart and used it every time a moment of strength was needed.

And then Angela said seven light, little words, and her entire system was shut down.

"Don't let anyone give you any shit."

With that, they both walked into the air-conditioned building. The two walked up a set of stairs that led into an open doorway. Nessie took in the buzzing room that was full of desks and stylish people. Phones rang and soft music was heard. It was a rather brilliant place that smelt like perfume and plastic. Nessie smiled widely, forgetting her fears.

"This is the office, the place where we deal with the consumers' needs and wants. It's really a pain in the ass for the ones who work here, but they keep the rest of us from exploding." Angela laughed, tugging on Nessie's hand and leading her to another door.

It was impossible for Nessie to miss the stares of the few that looked at her. They watched her walk with disgust and scrutiny. The redhead couldn't help but feel belittled by the harsh stares. It made her feel bad and unwanted, but as Angela had said before, she was unwanted by most.

The next room they entered was emptier and smaller, yet had desks and matched the previous room.

"This is Mr. Black's office, so to speak. These are the people who work especially for him; his secretaries, his consultants, his clients, his people."

There were many women in this room, rather than the men who had claimed their territory in the other room. These women were tall and model-esque, but a few looked ordinary, much like Angela.

"Angela?" Nessie began.

"Yeah?"

"What part of the building do you work in?"

"I work in this room. I'm Mr. Black's main assistant. He chose me to be the one to help you out." She smiled widely at Nessie, clearly happy with the choice Mr. Black had made.

"Now, the top floors consist of one-fifth of the designers for Legendary Apparel, and then the rest are another one-fifth that make up the magazine people—it's all basically just one-fifth of everything Legend," Angela simplified.

"Oh, and what will I be doing?" Nessie asked, following Angela as she started up a set of stairs. This time, though, no one stared at Nessie. She received a few glances when she first entered the room, but quickly went unnoticed.

"I'm not sure. Mr. Black never told me. Did the letter tell you anything?" Angela questioned with deep curiosity.

"Nuh-uh. It was just talking about an internship and a possible job. I didn't question anything at that time—I was just happy to be even considered for it," Nessie replied honestly.

The two entered a small hallway equipped with beige chairs and plants. There were a few red, abstract paintings on the walls, but nothing that screamed 'Legend Magazine.' It was simple and ordinary, and Nessie was beginning to question Mr. Black.

"Wait here for one second, 'kay?" Angela smiled at Nessie and pointed to a free seat. Nessie smiled and wandered to a chair in the middle of the others, inhaling a deep breath and letting it out slowly. She stared at a green plant in front of her, her eyes narrowing at the still thing.

Nessie stared at this medium-height house plant; it was almost maddening to watch. It seemed as if she was having a staring contest with it, determined to win. Growing up, her Grandmother Esme had taught her about plants and flowers, which instantly became a new love of Nessie's; she enjoyed the smells and colors, and she also enjoyed the time it brought her with her now deceased Grandmother. Then, suddenly, Nessie sat up from her chair and stomped to the tree that was nearly five feet away. She looked closely at it for a minute before reaching out and touching a leaf. She laughed once and snarled.

"I knew it was fake," she said to herself, unaware of the audience she had.

"Damn, and I thought I could get away with it," a deep, husky voice said. Nessie stood straight and snapped her eyes to the man beside the door. She recognized him right away, almost star struck at the American man who'd become a Legend himself.