Disclaimer: I DO NOT own any of the CI characters!
AN: Sorry about the long delay with the story. Ran into some problems, but I figured I'd update this story first, and then finish Tough Love. Please let me know what you think of the story.
By Trureflection
Sanctuary
Chapter 1- Twister
Summary- Kathryn reflects on her troubled past and faces new problems.
*~*One Year Later*~*
As I looked out the large window in my office, my mind began to wander. I thought about the things I left behind when my life in New York ended.
~Flashback~
*~* 3 Years Ago *~* Kathryn held three white roses in her hand as she awkwardly made her way past the large gravestones and stopped in front of three by the name of 'Valmont'. She dropped to her knees, not caring about the thousand dollar dress she was wearing. She was hurting and all she cared about was giving a proper farewell to her fallen family.
The tears streamed down her face as she outlined her finger on the words engraved in the left gravestone. 'Sebastian Valmont. A loving son and brother'
Kathryn wiped away the tears as the memories of Sebastian's death overwhelmed her. Sebastian's wake was a closed casket because his body was beaten so badly. No one, including Kathryn had seen Sebastian's body after he was brought to the hospital. He was alive when they brought him in, but died during surgery.
Kathryn refused to speak with anyone after his death. After about two weeks she started opening up more with her parents about she felt. But on their way back from Nepal, their plane crashed into the ocean and no one survived.
Kathryn put the rose in front of Sebastian's grave and stood up. She placed the other two in front of her parents' graves and walked out of the cemetery. Onto bigger and better things. Paris, here I come.
~End of Flashback~
In the past year, I was able to climb my way to the top. I launched a very expensive, and very popular clothing line. And on the side I took care of my late father's Wall Street empire from Milan. I had someone on site that kept me up to date on its progress and basically ran the company for me.
It had taken a few months to get the recognition that I had deserved, but it was well worth it. I decided to skip college for now and do what I'm an expert at: fashion. After a total of maybe eight months, my line was being sold internationally. I was up there with Versace, and it felt good. After all the troubles I had, I was still able to be successful.
For the past few months I've been dating a man by the name of Brendan Carringson. He's a very successful executive at Sony Enterprises and quite a good lay. I still am unsure as to how exactly I feel about him, I think that in some ways I do love him. He is everything I could ever want in a man. He's handsome, kind and very intelligent. But he's not Sebastian.
Yes, I think of Sebastian a lot. I always wondered what would've happened if we hadn't have fought and he didn't get in that car. But that's the past and he's just a memory.
When I left Paris, I left the name Kathryn Valmont behind as well. I didn't want to be associated with the person that I was when I lived there. Plus, I didn't want to risk my uncle finding me. My name is now Kathryn Versaille (Ver-sigh), and my line is called Lady Versaille.
We're starting a male line, but for now, we do women's. I've had many runway shows, and several of them were held in New York, but for some reason I just couldn't bring myself to go every time we had a show. I went back once, but the outcome of my visit wasn't pretty.
~Flashback~
*~* A Year and ½ Ago *~*
I had Cecile come over to visit me during April vacation for a few weeks. My aunt permitted it and I flew her over. Cecile was one of the few friends that I still kept in contact with ever since I moved away. I thought she was my friend and I could trust her, but I guess I was wrong.
Cecile had just left from my house and I was left alone with my uncle again. My aunt was out at brunch with her friends and it was just the two of us again. I was embarrassed because my uncle had made a scene and hit me in front of Cecile. She promised she wouldn't tell anyone of my uncle's violent behavior. I was still naïve and trusting back then, so of course I believed her.
A week later, I get the front page of New York Times in the mail and my face is on the cover. Under it, in bold is the statement: 'Valmont Orphan Abused By Uncle'.
I tried to hide it from my uncle, but of course he found out some way, and I had to tell my aunt that I 'fell down the stairs'. That was by far the worst beating I had ever received from him and I will never forget it. That was the last time I ever trusted anyone. I vowed I would get revenge on Cecile for all the pain she put me through.
**
I planned to stay in New York only one day after the fashion show to see what's changed the past few years I had been gone. I had decided to stay in the penthouse where my parents lived, but I found out my uncle, before he died, had sold it. And the things from Sebastian's room, he had liquidated and thrown away. Bastard.
**
The fashion show had just ended and everyone was attending the after party. As soon as I stepped into the elaborate ballroom in the Plaza, where I was staying, I spotted Cecile. She was standing in a bright pink dress covered in flowers. I shuddered as I tried to comprehend why someone would go out in public with a dress that looked like someone threw Pepto-Bismol all over it. A young black man stood next to her whispering something in her ear. That must be her fiancée, Ronald. The one she's SO much in love with. Oh well.
I laughed to myself as she looked up at him in pure adoration. If only you knew my dear Cecile what was really going on. If only you knew that he was cheating on you with a woman, if possible, was even more homely looking than you. I looked to the other side of the ballroom to see Bunny Caldwell glaring at her daughter and her fiancée. She made her way over to them and started a conversation.
I had hated Bunny Caldwell the second I saw her. Even as a stupid young teenager, I was able to spot an opportunist when I saw one. As I later found out after the scandal Cecile caused, Bunny was the one who squashed my reputation in New York. Cecile still had a large part in it, and she deserved what she was about to get. Bunny wanted Cecile to be the envy of every girl in New York. She stooped so low and took advantage of my domestic problems. Bunny would never have to worry about her precious reputation, because tomorrow when she wakes up, the thing she would have to worry about is if they have suites in prison.
**
I walked up to Cecile holding onto Brendan's arm. He knew I couldn't stand Cecile and he also knew about our past together. But he didn't know how evil I could be when it comes to revenge. If he only knew.
I was wearing a low cut dark brown gown that clung to me like a second skin. My hair was pinned up at the top of my head and I knew I looked good. I held my head up and gave Cecile a confident grin as she and her mother looked at me in awe. Bunny gave me a jealous glare before plastering a fake smile on her hideous face. I returned it and she gave me a hug.
I looked over at Cecile who looked at me in contempt. I flashed her a wide smile and gestured for her to walk with me. Brendan stayed behind and chatted with Ronald.
Cecile walked with me away from the crowd and crossed her arm in front of her chest. "What's the ploy now Kathryn? I know you're mad at me. And from what I've heard, you can be quite vicious."
You're about to find out exactly how vicious I can be. My eyes widened in false surprise. I put my hand over my chest and inquired "Where ever did you hear something like that from Cecile? I'm just willing to put the past behind us."
She eyed me carefully before relaxing. She smiled and stated "I'm glad you've gotten over this. Well I need to go find my date. See you later."
As I watched her disappear into the crowd I rolled my eyes and mumbled "Fucking idiot."
**
I woke up early in the morning while Brendan was still sleeping to turn on the news. I walked into the sitting room and sat comfortably on a chair in just my silk robe. I flipped through channels until I found CNN. The main headline was: 'Socialite Mother and Daughter Kill Lover In Cold Blood'.
I smiled in satisfaction as I read the closed caption on the bottom of the screen: "Apparently Cecile Caldwell had found out of Ronald Clifford's infidelities. She and her mother gunned the young musician down last night after they partied with New York's finest at Kathryn Versailles after party. Police found the gun at the scene and identified their fingerprints on the handle. The district attorney won't comment, but it appears they both might get the death sentence. It will be a"
I quickly turned the television off and all but skipped into the bathroom. I took a shower and came out refreshed. As I picked up my purse I scribbled on a note for Brendan: 'Out shopping, be back soon' Time for some real fun.
**
I stayed a week longer than planned to see the Caldwell's' trial. I sat in the back with a grin on my face as the verdict was read. "In the case of Bunny and Cecile Caldwell versus the state of New York. The court finds them both guilty on all counts."
Cecile looked like she was about to cry as they were led out of the courtroom. I'm telling you, I almost thought I was going to die laughing when her bottom lip started quivering. Well that's what they both get for fucking around with the best.
**
I walked out the courtroom and down the hall when Cecile, held in chains by a court officer called me over. Tears were streaming her face as she looked at me in despair. I gave her a sympathetic smile and brushed her hair away from her face.
"I have a secret." I declared. She looked at me and asked "What is it?"
My sad expression gave way for an evil smirk as I whispered in her ear "I had your beloved Ronald killed."
As I stepped back she looked at me in horror. "And you know what Cecile?"
She shook her head in realization. I laughed cruelly and finished "I liked it!"
Tears flooded her face as she muttered "Bitch"
I only laughed harder as I answered "The one and only Cecile. And don't you forget it. I think you'll like prison. Besides, stripes bring out the color in your eyes."
She tried to jump at me as she stated "You killed my fiancée."
I clucked my tongue at her "Boo fucking hoo. Haven't you learned by now Cecile? I don't care what the fuck happens to you or your two faced mother. I, personally, hope she gets a life sentence and knows what it's like to be somebody's bitch. And how it feels to be raped over and over again. I might even go send that in to the Times. I can see it right now: 'Convicted Socialite Raped By Fellow Convicts'. I think it has a ring to it, don't you?"
"You're evil Kathryn." She was trying to hold in her tears, but it only make her tremble. She looked like she was having convulsions, and it was fucking hilarious. I should've brought a camera.
"And you're fucking slow. Well, enough chatting. Always a pleasure Cecile." I gave her one last look before prancing out of the court. It felt good, but my time here was over.
~End of Flashback~
Speaking of memories, my uncle died several months ago from a stroke. I was furious. Furious that he couldn't have croaked when I was living there. I hadn't contacted my aunt since I moved to Milan and for all she knew I was dead. She didn't try to find me and I'm glad because my uncle had no way to find me. From what I heard, my aunt left after he died for parts unknown. I hope my uncle burns in hell for what he had done to me. And for some reason I had no doubt he was.
**
Kathryn swirled around in her office chair as her secretary, Annette walked in. She handed her a brown envelope and left the room. Kathryn opened the envelope and a contract fell onto her mahogany desk. She grabbed a black ballpoint pen, skimmed through the agreements and signed at the bottom.
Lady Versaille Incorporated and Spence Modeling Enterprises were collaborating to do a summer line. Kathryn had been signing contracts all day pertaining to the agreement and hadn't had a minute to herself all day.
The phone rang and after a few rings, Kathryn picked it up. "Hello?"
"Kathryn Versaille, this is Alexander Spence's secretary." The young girl on the other end replied.
"Yes? Has Mr. Spence picked a date for the meeting yet?" Alexander Spence was the CEO and chairman of the Spence Modeling Enterprises. He was a mystery, and Kathryn had never met him. His company had blossomed a month after Kathryn had left Paris for Milan. If you wanted to have a successful crossover fashion show, his models were the best, and that's just what Kathryn wanted.
"Yes he has. He suggested this afternoon at 1." Kathryn checked her personal planner for an opening.
"Okay. I'll be there. Thank you." She hung up the phone and leaned back in her chair. She rolled her eyes in annoyance as the phone rang yet again. She huffed loudly and picked up the phone.
"Hello?" A male voice answered causing Kathryn to smile to herself.
"Kathryn. How are you doing?"
"I've been alright. But I miss you." Brendan had been away in Japan for a week on business and they had hardly spoken on the phone given his hectic schedule.
Kathryn could almost hear him smile as he answered "I knew you would. That's why I sent you something to remember me by." Just as Kathryn was about to reply, a knock came at her door.
Annette tipped into her office holding a large bouquet of red long stemmed roses. Kathryn scoffed when Annette placed them on her desk. The one thing that Kathryn hated was when men tried to buy her affection with gifts. And roses definitely fell under that category, plus, she hated men who get too sentimental. As she studied at the diamond ring in the velvet box Annette handed her, Brendan brought her back to the conversation.
"So? Do you like them?" He sounded so hopeful and excited that Kathryn didn't want to make him feel bad. He tried and had good intentions so she felt no need to make him upset.
It's just that she's not like every other woman who cries when flowers are sent to them and gets excited when given jewelry 'in the name of love'. She thought he got the hint by now, but five bracelets and three necklaces later, he obviously wasn't catching on.
"I love them! Thanks sweetie." Kathryn looked up at Annette who gave her a smirk and returned her focus to Brendan's babbling.
"And I knew that roses were your favorite so I'm glad you like them." Kathryn, growing bored of the conversation, decided it was time to end it.
"I'm sorry to interrupt Brendan, but I have a meeting in a few minutes and it would be rather inappropriate to be late. So I'll be in touch." Kathryn hung up and looked over at Annette who was sitting in the plush chair in front of her large wooden desk.
Annette and Kathryn had been close friends since Kathryn moved to Milan. Annette had been one of Kathryn's first models for her line, but decided she wanted to go back to school. She worked for Kathryn as her secretary as she worked on her resume to get her masters degree. It took Kathryn a while to trust Annette seeing that she had never trusted anyone since she learned about how the real world works.
Annette had a boyfriend that worked with Brendan at Sony and they chose to live in different areas. Annette lived in Milan and he lived in Rome. It wasn't really serious, given Annette had only been dating him for a little over a month.
Annette chuckled slightly and gave Kathryn an amused grin. "Boyfriend getting all romantic again? God, he's so mushy. I don't know how you can stand it."
Kathryn stood up and stuck the small black box into the locked drawer in her desk. She picked up the vase and walked out of the office. Annette heard a loud crash and Kathryn sauntered back in with a satisfied smirk on her face. She sat down in the chair behind her desk and crossed her legs comfortably.
"Did you at least throw them in the garbage or did you throw them on my desk?"
Kathryn paused a moment before replying. "They're in the garbage. Where they belong. God I hate nature, and last time I checked; flowers are part of nature."
Annette rolled her eyes and stood up. Kathryn looked up at her in question. "Where are you going?"
Annette smiled and walked for the door. "I have a lot of paperwork and it needs to be done. Have fun at the meeting Kat."
Kathryn slumped back in her leather office chair and replied stubbornly "Don't call me Kat."
**
Kathryn's black limo pulled up in front of a large building and she was escorted inside. As she boarded the elevator with a few other businessmen, she started to get anxious. She had never met this man before and it was the biggest deal she had yet to make for her company.
Her company had expanded by 50% in the past two months and she never expected to be so popular. She was living the fast life and secretly missed not working for her money. Although she had enough money to sell her company and live happily for the rest of her life, she didn't want to let all of her hard work go to the highest bidder. Especially since it was taking her to different levels. Plus, she loved what she was doing.
As the elevator doors opened, Kathryn took a deep breath and raised her head up as she strutted down the hall to the large conference room to her right. Spence's secretary was waiting for her outside the door and led her to her seat at the head of the conference table. Kathryn started a light conversation with one of Spence's advisors at her left. As she flipped through the pages of the contract, the door opened and in walked Alexander Spence.
Kathryn's mouth dropped open in shock as he gave her a gloating grin. She couldn't pull her eyes away from his as he sat down at the other side of the table.
She stuttered as she mouthed silently to him. "You.. you.. you're dead."
She shook her head in confusion as he mouthed "Surprise."
To Be Continued
Please Review!
AN: Hope you liked it. It's a little different than my first story. Please tell me what you think. And criticism is always welcome. Thanks!
AN: Sorry about the long delay with the story. Ran into some problems, but I figured I'd update this story first, and then finish Tough Love. Please let me know what you think of the story.
By Trureflection
Sanctuary
Chapter 1- Twister
Summary- Kathryn reflects on her troubled past and faces new problems.
*~*One Year Later*~*
As I looked out the large window in my office, my mind began to wander. I thought about the things I left behind when my life in New York ended.
~Flashback~
*~* 3 Years Ago *~* Kathryn held three white roses in her hand as she awkwardly made her way past the large gravestones and stopped in front of three by the name of 'Valmont'. She dropped to her knees, not caring about the thousand dollar dress she was wearing. She was hurting and all she cared about was giving a proper farewell to her fallen family.
The tears streamed down her face as she outlined her finger on the words engraved in the left gravestone. 'Sebastian Valmont. A loving son and brother'
Kathryn wiped away the tears as the memories of Sebastian's death overwhelmed her. Sebastian's wake was a closed casket because his body was beaten so badly. No one, including Kathryn had seen Sebastian's body after he was brought to the hospital. He was alive when they brought him in, but died during surgery.
Kathryn refused to speak with anyone after his death. After about two weeks she started opening up more with her parents about she felt. But on their way back from Nepal, their plane crashed into the ocean and no one survived.
Kathryn put the rose in front of Sebastian's grave and stood up. She placed the other two in front of her parents' graves and walked out of the cemetery. Onto bigger and better things. Paris, here I come.
~End of Flashback~
In the past year, I was able to climb my way to the top. I launched a very expensive, and very popular clothing line. And on the side I took care of my late father's Wall Street empire from Milan. I had someone on site that kept me up to date on its progress and basically ran the company for me.
It had taken a few months to get the recognition that I had deserved, but it was well worth it. I decided to skip college for now and do what I'm an expert at: fashion. After a total of maybe eight months, my line was being sold internationally. I was up there with Versace, and it felt good. After all the troubles I had, I was still able to be successful.
For the past few months I've been dating a man by the name of Brendan Carringson. He's a very successful executive at Sony Enterprises and quite a good lay. I still am unsure as to how exactly I feel about him, I think that in some ways I do love him. He is everything I could ever want in a man. He's handsome, kind and very intelligent. But he's not Sebastian.
Yes, I think of Sebastian a lot. I always wondered what would've happened if we hadn't have fought and he didn't get in that car. But that's the past and he's just a memory.
When I left Paris, I left the name Kathryn Valmont behind as well. I didn't want to be associated with the person that I was when I lived there. Plus, I didn't want to risk my uncle finding me. My name is now Kathryn Versaille (Ver-sigh), and my line is called Lady Versaille.
We're starting a male line, but for now, we do women's. I've had many runway shows, and several of them were held in New York, but for some reason I just couldn't bring myself to go every time we had a show. I went back once, but the outcome of my visit wasn't pretty.
~Flashback~
*~* A Year and ½ Ago *~*
I had Cecile come over to visit me during April vacation for a few weeks. My aunt permitted it and I flew her over. Cecile was one of the few friends that I still kept in contact with ever since I moved away. I thought she was my friend and I could trust her, but I guess I was wrong.
Cecile had just left from my house and I was left alone with my uncle again. My aunt was out at brunch with her friends and it was just the two of us again. I was embarrassed because my uncle had made a scene and hit me in front of Cecile. She promised she wouldn't tell anyone of my uncle's violent behavior. I was still naïve and trusting back then, so of course I believed her.
A week later, I get the front page of New York Times in the mail and my face is on the cover. Under it, in bold is the statement: 'Valmont Orphan Abused By Uncle'.
I tried to hide it from my uncle, but of course he found out some way, and I had to tell my aunt that I 'fell down the stairs'. That was by far the worst beating I had ever received from him and I will never forget it. That was the last time I ever trusted anyone. I vowed I would get revenge on Cecile for all the pain she put me through.
**
I planned to stay in New York only one day after the fashion show to see what's changed the past few years I had been gone. I had decided to stay in the penthouse where my parents lived, but I found out my uncle, before he died, had sold it. And the things from Sebastian's room, he had liquidated and thrown away. Bastard.
**
The fashion show had just ended and everyone was attending the after party. As soon as I stepped into the elaborate ballroom in the Plaza, where I was staying, I spotted Cecile. She was standing in a bright pink dress covered in flowers. I shuddered as I tried to comprehend why someone would go out in public with a dress that looked like someone threw Pepto-Bismol all over it. A young black man stood next to her whispering something in her ear. That must be her fiancée, Ronald. The one she's SO much in love with. Oh well.
I laughed to myself as she looked up at him in pure adoration. If only you knew my dear Cecile what was really going on. If only you knew that he was cheating on you with a woman, if possible, was even more homely looking than you. I looked to the other side of the ballroom to see Bunny Caldwell glaring at her daughter and her fiancée. She made her way over to them and started a conversation.
I had hated Bunny Caldwell the second I saw her. Even as a stupid young teenager, I was able to spot an opportunist when I saw one. As I later found out after the scandal Cecile caused, Bunny was the one who squashed my reputation in New York. Cecile still had a large part in it, and she deserved what she was about to get. Bunny wanted Cecile to be the envy of every girl in New York. She stooped so low and took advantage of my domestic problems. Bunny would never have to worry about her precious reputation, because tomorrow when she wakes up, the thing she would have to worry about is if they have suites in prison.
**
I walked up to Cecile holding onto Brendan's arm. He knew I couldn't stand Cecile and he also knew about our past together. But he didn't know how evil I could be when it comes to revenge. If he only knew.
I was wearing a low cut dark brown gown that clung to me like a second skin. My hair was pinned up at the top of my head and I knew I looked good. I held my head up and gave Cecile a confident grin as she and her mother looked at me in awe. Bunny gave me a jealous glare before plastering a fake smile on her hideous face. I returned it and she gave me a hug.
I looked over at Cecile who looked at me in contempt. I flashed her a wide smile and gestured for her to walk with me. Brendan stayed behind and chatted with Ronald.
Cecile walked with me away from the crowd and crossed her arm in front of her chest. "What's the ploy now Kathryn? I know you're mad at me. And from what I've heard, you can be quite vicious."
You're about to find out exactly how vicious I can be. My eyes widened in false surprise. I put my hand over my chest and inquired "Where ever did you hear something like that from Cecile? I'm just willing to put the past behind us."
She eyed me carefully before relaxing. She smiled and stated "I'm glad you've gotten over this. Well I need to go find my date. See you later."
As I watched her disappear into the crowd I rolled my eyes and mumbled "Fucking idiot."
**
I woke up early in the morning while Brendan was still sleeping to turn on the news. I walked into the sitting room and sat comfortably on a chair in just my silk robe. I flipped through channels until I found CNN. The main headline was: 'Socialite Mother and Daughter Kill Lover In Cold Blood'.
I smiled in satisfaction as I read the closed caption on the bottom of the screen: "Apparently Cecile Caldwell had found out of Ronald Clifford's infidelities. She and her mother gunned the young musician down last night after they partied with New York's finest at Kathryn Versailles after party. Police found the gun at the scene and identified their fingerprints on the handle. The district attorney won't comment, but it appears they both might get the death sentence. It will be a"
I quickly turned the television off and all but skipped into the bathroom. I took a shower and came out refreshed. As I picked up my purse I scribbled on a note for Brendan: 'Out shopping, be back soon' Time for some real fun.
**
I stayed a week longer than planned to see the Caldwell's' trial. I sat in the back with a grin on my face as the verdict was read. "In the case of Bunny and Cecile Caldwell versus the state of New York. The court finds them both guilty on all counts."
Cecile looked like she was about to cry as they were led out of the courtroom. I'm telling you, I almost thought I was going to die laughing when her bottom lip started quivering. Well that's what they both get for fucking around with the best.
**
I walked out the courtroom and down the hall when Cecile, held in chains by a court officer called me over. Tears were streaming her face as she looked at me in despair. I gave her a sympathetic smile and brushed her hair away from her face.
"I have a secret." I declared. She looked at me and asked "What is it?"
My sad expression gave way for an evil smirk as I whispered in her ear "I had your beloved Ronald killed."
As I stepped back she looked at me in horror. "And you know what Cecile?"
She shook her head in realization. I laughed cruelly and finished "I liked it!"
Tears flooded her face as she muttered "Bitch"
I only laughed harder as I answered "The one and only Cecile. And don't you forget it. I think you'll like prison. Besides, stripes bring out the color in your eyes."
She tried to jump at me as she stated "You killed my fiancée."
I clucked my tongue at her "Boo fucking hoo. Haven't you learned by now Cecile? I don't care what the fuck happens to you or your two faced mother. I, personally, hope she gets a life sentence and knows what it's like to be somebody's bitch. And how it feels to be raped over and over again. I might even go send that in to the Times. I can see it right now: 'Convicted Socialite Raped By Fellow Convicts'. I think it has a ring to it, don't you?"
"You're evil Kathryn." She was trying to hold in her tears, but it only make her tremble. She looked like she was having convulsions, and it was fucking hilarious. I should've brought a camera.
"And you're fucking slow. Well, enough chatting. Always a pleasure Cecile." I gave her one last look before prancing out of the court. It felt good, but my time here was over.
~End of Flashback~
Speaking of memories, my uncle died several months ago from a stroke. I was furious. Furious that he couldn't have croaked when I was living there. I hadn't contacted my aunt since I moved to Milan and for all she knew I was dead. She didn't try to find me and I'm glad because my uncle had no way to find me. From what I heard, my aunt left after he died for parts unknown. I hope my uncle burns in hell for what he had done to me. And for some reason I had no doubt he was.
**
Kathryn swirled around in her office chair as her secretary, Annette walked in. She handed her a brown envelope and left the room. Kathryn opened the envelope and a contract fell onto her mahogany desk. She grabbed a black ballpoint pen, skimmed through the agreements and signed at the bottom.
Lady Versaille Incorporated and Spence Modeling Enterprises were collaborating to do a summer line. Kathryn had been signing contracts all day pertaining to the agreement and hadn't had a minute to herself all day.
The phone rang and after a few rings, Kathryn picked it up. "Hello?"
"Kathryn Versaille, this is Alexander Spence's secretary." The young girl on the other end replied.
"Yes? Has Mr. Spence picked a date for the meeting yet?" Alexander Spence was the CEO and chairman of the Spence Modeling Enterprises. He was a mystery, and Kathryn had never met him. His company had blossomed a month after Kathryn had left Paris for Milan. If you wanted to have a successful crossover fashion show, his models were the best, and that's just what Kathryn wanted.
"Yes he has. He suggested this afternoon at 1." Kathryn checked her personal planner for an opening.
"Okay. I'll be there. Thank you." She hung up the phone and leaned back in her chair. She rolled her eyes in annoyance as the phone rang yet again. She huffed loudly and picked up the phone.
"Hello?" A male voice answered causing Kathryn to smile to herself.
"Kathryn. How are you doing?"
"I've been alright. But I miss you." Brendan had been away in Japan for a week on business and they had hardly spoken on the phone given his hectic schedule.
Kathryn could almost hear him smile as he answered "I knew you would. That's why I sent you something to remember me by." Just as Kathryn was about to reply, a knock came at her door.
Annette tipped into her office holding a large bouquet of red long stemmed roses. Kathryn scoffed when Annette placed them on her desk. The one thing that Kathryn hated was when men tried to buy her affection with gifts. And roses definitely fell under that category, plus, she hated men who get too sentimental. As she studied at the diamond ring in the velvet box Annette handed her, Brendan brought her back to the conversation.
"So? Do you like them?" He sounded so hopeful and excited that Kathryn didn't want to make him feel bad. He tried and had good intentions so she felt no need to make him upset.
It's just that she's not like every other woman who cries when flowers are sent to them and gets excited when given jewelry 'in the name of love'. She thought he got the hint by now, but five bracelets and three necklaces later, he obviously wasn't catching on.
"I love them! Thanks sweetie." Kathryn looked up at Annette who gave her a smirk and returned her focus to Brendan's babbling.
"And I knew that roses were your favorite so I'm glad you like them." Kathryn, growing bored of the conversation, decided it was time to end it.
"I'm sorry to interrupt Brendan, but I have a meeting in a few minutes and it would be rather inappropriate to be late. So I'll be in touch." Kathryn hung up and looked over at Annette who was sitting in the plush chair in front of her large wooden desk.
Annette and Kathryn had been close friends since Kathryn moved to Milan. Annette had been one of Kathryn's first models for her line, but decided she wanted to go back to school. She worked for Kathryn as her secretary as she worked on her resume to get her masters degree. It took Kathryn a while to trust Annette seeing that she had never trusted anyone since she learned about how the real world works.
Annette had a boyfriend that worked with Brendan at Sony and they chose to live in different areas. Annette lived in Milan and he lived in Rome. It wasn't really serious, given Annette had only been dating him for a little over a month.
Annette chuckled slightly and gave Kathryn an amused grin. "Boyfriend getting all romantic again? God, he's so mushy. I don't know how you can stand it."
Kathryn stood up and stuck the small black box into the locked drawer in her desk. She picked up the vase and walked out of the office. Annette heard a loud crash and Kathryn sauntered back in with a satisfied smirk on her face. She sat down in the chair behind her desk and crossed her legs comfortably.
"Did you at least throw them in the garbage or did you throw them on my desk?"
Kathryn paused a moment before replying. "They're in the garbage. Where they belong. God I hate nature, and last time I checked; flowers are part of nature."
Annette rolled her eyes and stood up. Kathryn looked up at her in question. "Where are you going?"
Annette smiled and walked for the door. "I have a lot of paperwork and it needs to be done. Have fun at the meeting Kat."
Kathryn slumped back in her leather office chair and replied stubbornly "Don't call me Kat."
**
Kathryn's black limo pulled up in front of a large building and she was escorted inside. As she boarded the elevator with a few other businessmen, she started to get anxious. She had never met this man before and it was the biggest deal she had yet to make for her company.
Her company had expanded by 50% in the past two months and she never expected to be so popular. She was living the fast life and secretly missed not working for her money. Although she had enough money to sell her company and live happily for the rest of her life, she didn't want to let all of her hard work go to the highest bidder. Especially since it was taking her to different levels. Plus, she loved what she was doing.
As the elevator doors opened, Kathryn took a deep breath and raised her head up as she strutted down the hall to the large conference room to her right. Spence's secretary was waiting for her outside the door and led her to her seat at the head of the conference table. Kathryn started a light conversation with one of Spence's advisors at her left. As she flipped through the pages of the contract, the door opened and in walked Alexander Spence.
Kathryn's mouth dropped open in shock as he gave her a gloating grin. She couldn't pull her eyes away from his as he sat down at the other side of the table.
She stuttered as she mouthed silently to him. "You.. you.. you're dead."
She shook her head in confusion as he mouthed "Surprise."
To Be Continued
Please Review!
AN: Hope you liked it. It's a little different than my first story. Please tell me what you think. And criticism is always welcome. Thanks!