~*Author's Note!*~
I would say I lied, but I didn't. I just like to keep everyone guessing at all times lol So sorry for the 7 year itch, life happens. Which is why I have not just 1, but 2 chapters for ya. You're welcome ;) Also, it has come to my attention that the characters are way too young for the topics of discussion, ages have been updated as follows:
Chipmunks (Aged 18) | Chipettes (Aged 17) - Breakup/emancipation
2 year gap
Current - Chipmunks (Aged 20) | Chipettes (Aged 19)
You will see an additional update which will not signify a new chapter, but an update regarding their ages in the story. I will try to do it as one clear post so you don't get a bunch of random updates. Other changes such as movie names and other small details may be updated in the process as I reread some of my (cringe at times) writing. Their guardians will also be written out to be their former guardians.
So I've decided to continue instead of doing a sequel so you guys may be properly notified. Also, the story will now be rated M. I figured we've all matured so our tastes should mature as well, I know mine have. I'm finishing my degree this year and I want to continue to explore and express myself.
Can I also say a big thank you to all of you? I have read every single one of your reviews throughout the years that I've been slowly rebuilding my life into what I want it to look like and becoming the woman I want to be and you guys give me so much enjoyment from your praise and constructive criticism of my story. I love you newbies too, welcome. These next two chapters are definitely dedicated to all of you.
~* Glamorous*~
Chapter 13
Now or Never: Part 1
Our chauffeured limousine echoed its way up into the curves of the hills closer to our destination. Outside of my window, the harmonious moonlight ignited the deep purple hue that darkened the sky. The cities and buildings each had a cluster of golden lights that stretched far and wide that lit up all of Los Angeles for miles. The skyscrapers were at some distance between us as we made our way towards our home.
I yawned, feeling my eyelids become heavy listening to the soothing sound of rain echoing across the rooftop of our ride. Crossing one leg over another, I held my arms up behind my head. A weight was lifted off of me especially since I had kicked my heels off earlier. Jeanette had done the same and was sprawled out on the other side of me, swiping through her phone and sipping on water she had gotten from the cooler. Blinking and yawning equally, she leaned forward to place it in a cup holder. She looked just as tired as I was. I had a long day, I was just so happy it was coming to an end, finally.
"You know, you're so lucky it's raining and we can't go swimming anymore," she declared and tossed an ice cube from the cooler at me, "Heated pool be damned. But, you owe me a date next time. " Jeanette snickered at my shocked face seeing as she knocked me out of my vibe. I frowned and debated whether I wanted to retaliate right now, but was stopped abruptly when the limo made a sharp turn and we grabbed onto our seats as the limousine carried itself around the curve towards the house.
Now we were getting closer.
Thoughts echoed through my head hearing puddles being splashed in the outdoors. I didn't know what tonight had planned for me, all I knew was that I had to be ready. For questions, for answers. I needed to navigate my way around this so nobody could spot my blind side.
How long had Eleanor had her eating disorder?
Why did I feel like those reporters knew something I didn't?
If I was going to the Grand London, how was I going to get there?
Who was staring out at me from the restaurant when we were leaving?
My thoughts were racing in my mind. Something was going on because so many things just didn't click.
Jeanette and I began to put on our heeled stilettos listening to the raindrops pour. Strapping them one for what would be the final time tonight. Thunder roared through the roof and I closed my eyes in anticipation. The limousine rolled its way across the pavement and curled around into our driveway. I could make out the shadowy silhouetted figure of our home. Upon this dark hour, it looked more like a haunted house than anything.
Boom!
Not to mention the flash of lightning that wasn't doing us any favors.
"You know what, Brittany?" Jeanette spoke, curling a strand of hair aside gazing out the frame of the window, the rain beating down heavily amongst the glass. " I think I'll skip putting on my shoes, I don't want to slip."
A screw untightened itself and went flying in my head. And splash in the puddles on the ground with no shoes on?!
Jeanette caught this and snorted, "Brit, it's just for a second and then we'll be done. We're home anyway!"
I leaned over grabbing an ice cube out of one of the coolers, dropping one in my mouth. My eyes narrowed at her, "That's two wild ideas in one night Jeanette. First the pool and now this?"
"Slip if you want." Jeanette giggled as we gathered up the bags of food. The entrees still smelled great from Eleanor and Theodore's restaurant even now. They even overpowered the familiar scent of our ride.
I stared down at my shoes. One of which was already on, the other halfway there. I bit my lip thoughtfully squinting my eyes trying to gaze out of the glass window unsuccessfully. The rain had picked up, there was no telling how it was outside. I frowned. I knew she was right. But I hated letting her know that. I just wanted to get home, get to my bed, and go to sleep!
"Fine!" I exclaimed, kicking my heels off, I pulled my hair band off my wrist and pulled my hair into a high bun.
I yelled to our driver, "We got the door, we'll see you later!"
"Have a good night, okay?!" Jeanette called out.
Our main driver was Marc, the one that had originally taken us to Eccentric Taste. He was very charismatic and could make anyone feel at ease. But Julio was our backup for tonight since Marc had a family emergency. He preferred working late nights anyway.
The raindrops picked up outside and began thumping harder against the rooftop and I took a deep breath and then let it go. Finally home. My eyes felt heavy, I gripped the bags of food tighter.
Let's just get this night over with.
Whatever I was planning to do was going to take some careful thought.
Our limousine curved into a stop and like magic, I heard our driver's door open. Didn't I tell him that we would get the door? Either way, I appreciated it anyway.
A heavy clicking noise and the door slid open. Our driver looked at us in bewilderment as he grabbed onto both of us, helping us step out. We giggled, then shrieked from the brief clap of thunder. The rain soaked our hair immediately as we made our way out of the vehicle. Another gasp came from both of us once we realized how cold the wet ground was.
Boom!
Boom!
Splash!
I blew a kiss and Jeanette waved goodbye to our driver as we splashed through the wet puddles up to the front door. The engine revved up and our ride rode away right as I fumbled through my jumbled keys and got us inside.
"Phew!" I pressed my back against the door until it slammed shut and tossed my heels carelessly on the ground, readjusting the bags in my other hand. "What a night that was."
"Right, I hope—woah!"
Grabbing Jeanette's shoulder with one arm, I almost lost footing myself. We both glanced down at the shakily marble floorboard with mild irritation.
"I hope you get that fixed soon." Jeanette remarked, regaining her balance with the bags she had, clutching them to her chest. I gave her a look, "You can call up the repair guy anytime you want to."
My auburn hair now clung damply and desperately to my neck and back, along with my dress as I followed Jeanette's long slender legs into the kitchen. The wet and dry sensation was unbecoming. Water droplets maneuvered across my brow. I blew sheepishly at a loose strand of my now wavy locks and pulled the tall curtains over our two large arched windows, shielding the darkness from us and muffling the rain.
Jeanette had placed the bags down, sighing in agreement, "Ugh... my feet are killing me…", she groaned and flipped on a couple of light switches and the chandelier above us glimmered down igniting the cream colored hallway and followed me into the kitchen. I watched her set the alarm. Water dripped along the floors behind us, but right now we couldn't be bothered by it. We both placed our bags into the refrigerator and shut the door. We looked at each other and let out a sigh of relief now that we were finally home.
I chewed on my bottom lip tasting what was left of my lip gloss. I couldn't waste any more time. I needed to act fast. For a moment, I felt numb. I didn't know where to start. What my next move would be.
Maybe I could just change clothes and just…
I began to make my way upstairs when Jeanette absently took my arm and led me over to our living room.
Shit, this wasn't going to be easy. Might as well go along with the flow for now so she won't suspect anything.
A soft, fluffy feeling was pressed against my sore feet as we made contact with the lush carpet that meant that we were now in the living room.
This room never failed to put me in a better mood or help me think. Wasting no time, I flopped over on what was the comfiest couch of all time. Maybe this wasn't such a bad idea. I didn't realize how exhausted I felt until the cushion hit my back melting the tension away. All of a sudden I realized that I literally had been gone all day. My thoughts danced throughout my mind in a hazy range of motion.
The commercial, the interns, the magazine photoshoot. The impromptu family reunion at Ellie and Theo's restaurant. Seeing my friend with many benefits. The media. Eleanor's secret. Now a party on some rooftop was going on at the Grand London and Alvin would be there. I had questions I needed to ask him and I didn't know how long he'd be in town. I was a tough girl, but this was a lot for me.
The inner layer of our family room was decorated with champagne colored couches and a matching glass center table. The couches were laced with fluffy pillows and vases filled with faux red colored roses were scattered around a few end tables to give the room a splash of color. Finally, the center fireplace was decorated around a deep brown stone wall where Jeanette was on her knees lighting a fire to warm and brighten the room.
Feeling the heat radiate onto my face, I sighed watching the embers burst into flames and heard the firewood crackling along with the heavy rain outdoors.
"Oof!" I jolted up rubbing my eyes seeing that something was tossed onto me.
It was bright red and long with a curved handle. I threw a contorted glance at Jeanette wondering what this was. To that, she giggled and crouched down reaching inside a long wooden glass case pulling out a couple of 3-wick candles.
A lightbulb went off-somewhere in my brain. I knew this was a lighter all along.
Jeanette stepped over towards me, "White Pumpkin or Rose-Apple Autumn?" She held them a little higher for me to see. Peering my head up, I pondered between the two of them frowning.
"...Isn't it only April?", I asked dumbly.
She scoffed and rolled her eyes, " Brittany!", she dropped her arms down, "These are what you picked out!"
"I picked out fall scents in Apr-
"You did. They were on sale, remember?"
Silence went on for as long as I could take it before I stopped our little staring contest and snatched a candle from Jeanette who punched me in the thigh and leaped out of the way before I could kick her.
The candle was lit and the aroma lit up like a wildfire and spread around the enormous room just as fast. Apple anything was the quickest way to get your house smelling like Thanksgiving, in April of course.
We both inhaled deeply and sighed softly.
This was perfect.
Before we got settled in, we headed upstairs to each of our respected bedrooms. I couldn't wait to hop in the shower. It was over an hour later before we returned. Having put on a fresh change of matching pajamas that included a pair of gray cotton sweat shorts and a matching tank, I made my way back to the living space where I crashed down the sofa a second time sinking into the soft, cozy interior sighing deeply. Jeanette sniffed and shivered, rubbing her arms on her way down and making her way towards me before stopping shortly. She wore a dark violet t-shirt gown that stopped at her knees with the words 'Know it All' in a shimmery gold plastered on her lower left side in cursive. Pausing, she glanced around, finding a comfy blanket that was left there a couple of nights ago, bringing it towards me and took to the kitchen.
Buzz! Buzz!
While Jeanette was in the kitchen nearby brewing what smelled to be hot chocolate, I responded through a few texts and scrolled through the latest blogs, one of which captured my attention. My social media was not as active as I would like for it to be. I had only posted a couple of pictures and my last post was so far back. I needed to become more active and start giving my fan base what they want. They would have my back and bail me out of any bad press. Maybe I could have my go-girl, Destiny, take on this new take of managing my profile. I know she'd love it. As I scrolled down a bit more, Eccentric Taste was trending.
You just had to be there.
A night to remember.
#EccentricTaste
Well, it definitely was a night to remember. Lots of people had posted pictures of their food and their attire at the opening. I could see that Simon and Theodore posted the picture we all took.
I couldn't help but type in '#GrandLondonPalace' to see what was going on there.
Then I saw it, there really was an afterparty being held at the Grand London Palace where my manager and those who were at the production agency today were. What a coincidence, the same afterparty that Alvin was attending. I scrolled down at the bright lights, attire, and the whole scene of things. There were many red roses and golden lights with a few names in the industry attending.
The crazy thing was, I could actually go, but the fatigue of this eventful day was taking its toll and it was becoming hard for my eyes to stay open. Already my body was becoming heavy as it was making its home in the cushions of the couch. I went to the kitchen to grab an energy drink out the fridge. I checked a notification on my phone. I bit my lip and thought if I should go to Alvin's page out of curiosity.
Against all odds, I went to go check. We both followed each other.
Alvin had posted as a matter of fact. His helicopter landed on the roof and him and his entourage had recorded a picture of them posing inside throwing up hand gestures and middle fingers to which I rolled my eyes. When I clicked on his story, it showed him being in a lounge area with some familiar faces captioned as:
The party doesn't start til' I walk in. #GrandLondonLosAngeles
"Hey Brittany?..." Jeanette called out, "Did you want to just have a movie night instead?"
That's not what I had in mind. This party did look like it was a perfect way to let my presence be known and erase some negative PR. The reporter that questioned me and Jeanette hinting that our family dynamic with Eleanor had been dwindling. I know Jeanette and Eleanor are spotted together rarely, and me and Eleanor aren't ever seen together. The gossip these past few years hasn't been good with the Chipettes breaking up and I hadn't made it any better. But, still. I couldn't have any prying eyes or nosy reporters that would give fuel to any gossip blogs.
Tony, my agent, informed me that it was exclusive. I had never even been to GLP since getting a room took months in advance and you had to get in that window of opportunity when they had openings. Plus, to be invited to one of their events?! Please. But, if Tony was there, I know I'd be in good company and with who I am, I'm sure I could sweet talk someone into letting me in. The party had to last until the morning. I knew I didn't have any bodyguards, though. Shit. Maybe I could take a quick nap, but another yawn came out and my eyes were dropping already.
"Actually. I was thinking we could watch that movie where a detective is hired to investigate a murder in a rich family ," Jeanette smiled from ear to ear, "What do you say?"
I held in my breath and tried to look at Jeanette, but not look at her. If you know what I mean. Biting my lip, "But I'd really rather…"
I think I'd rather see if I could get into this party.
"It's okay if you're tired, though. You can also just go to bed" She had placed her drink down and hopped on the couch and picked up the stereo remote, a slow R&B rhythm hummed across the room. I was beginning to fall asleep now. My racing mind was the only thing keeping me awake now.
"But, I already texted Destiny to come over. She finished her extra assistant tasks early and said she's starving and already on her way."
I had propped my arm up and rested my head against it, "Wow, this late? I would say I'm surprised, but I'm not."
"She won't stop texting me about food, so I told her to come get some then." Jeanette let out another yawn, she had the remote and was flipping through different streaming services. What was that movie called again?
Pulling my phone out, I scrunched my eyebrows together and read out the time.
11:27pm
On one hand, a girls night was definitely something I absolutely needed right now. Soft blankets, gossip, and a movie sounded much better than anything, especially after this long, aggravating day.
However, another thought was overlooking my mind. Jeanette told me earlier she wanted to know what me and Eleanor had discussed in the restroom earlier. It felt like so long ago, but it really wasn't. It's not like we fist-fought or anything, but still she deserved to know what was up. It was only fair, but I wanted to postpone it as much as I could. I didn't want her carrying any more family burdens. Was it my place to tell her? Or was it Eleanor's? Plus, with Destiny here too, she was great with advice, but my mind was still all over the place and still I didn't know how much I wanted to reveal yet. I was a private person, I couldn't help it! This could make our movie night really awkward and less enjoyable for me.
Then, I'd end up heading to bed and that might look suspicious on my end.
On the other hand, at the GLP, I could run into my production executives and see some familiar faces. It was nothing to call up a ride there and tell Jeanette and Destiny I left something important back at the studio. But, this late? Even though I was a good liar when I needed to be, that didn't sound very convincing.
The hardest part would be I'd never really pulled an all nighter before and I'd essentially be stuck there. Getting a room at that place was not happening. They were always booked. If I made it there, I'd have no choice who I'd be sharing a room with…
But, this was the L.A's very own Grand London! The hottest and most exclusive hotel in Los Angeles?! How could I pass that up? It was only able to be reserved by the most exclusive to be able to get their hands on a reservation. Plus, I heard they threw some very exclusive after-parties like tonight. I 'd be lying if I didn't act like I wanted to see what it had to offer.
Aside from that, wouldn't I run into the same issues there as I would here with the tension building between me and Alvin? I had some questions that needed answers.
Why was he late tonight?
Why was he clueless when Dave asked why Eleanor was upset? Was he really clueless?
Why were he and Dave so angry at each other?
Did he know who Eleanor was talking to in the bathroom?
If Dave wasn't his manager anymore, then who was?
And not only that, why didn't he go home with Dave and the boys if they all live together?
How'd he get a reservation at GLP? How long had he had it?
You see what I mean? I swore under my breath, my head was hurting. The night was over, unless I wanted it to continue. But I was becoming too sleepy for my own good. I could feel myself nodding off. My thoughts were becoming fuzzy.
"I think you'll like this one Brittany, I've only seen parts of it though. I've been really into plays lately." I heard Jeanette say. She wrapped her blanket around herself and came to sit near me.
"What's it called again?"
"Knives Out."
"That mystery movie?!"
Jeanette rolled her eyes and I threw a pillow at her. Giggling, she tossed it back at me and pressed 'play' on the TV as the film began to start.
"It's more suspenseful than you think. Trust me, you'll get into it. Someone in the family killed the grandfather for his fortune."
"What time will Destiny be here?" I asked.
"In a few minutes. You know she loves a good mystery." Jeanette replied in the midst of a yawn. She reached for her drink and took a few sips.
The movie began at the title sequence and I lost track of time. Already I felt myself start to fade away, the sound of rain was already clouding my mind. The erratic mess of the day didn't matter anymore as I was finally home. I was beginning to fall asleep.
Buzz! Buzz!
I groaned, not wanting to hear another sound, not from anyone. But, upon looking at my phone, it was a text from my manager.
Change of plans. Get a ride and get here. I'll get a room for you.
My heart jolted my body up with a hun of electricity and Jeanette snapped her gaze from the film towards me, but I ignored her.
"Tony got me a room! Tony got me a room?!...Tony got me a room!" I whispered to myself at least a dozen times.
What was I gonna do?! I was gonna have to make this quick! I had to think of an excuse for Jeanette and Destiny later. I peered over and watched where Jeanette was. She had gone into the kitchen again. Then my eyes glanced towards our hall down to where the main entrance was. I could still hear the heavy rain and thunder booming outside. I had to be fast. I decided I was going to get out of this house tonight.
Escaping unnoticed would be tricky. The adrenaline and the tiny nap I took gave me a brief burst of energy and I had to use the momentum I had now.
Ding! Dong!
…
No…
"Brittany!" Jeanette called over the clap of thunder.
WAS SHE HERE ALREADY?!
"Brittany do you think you can get the doo-
"Sorry Jeanette! I don't feel good. I'm going to g-go get some medicine!" I hollered back and dashed across the living space. I accidentally bumped into a side coffee table and carefully adjusted the scented candle. The hot wax spilled over the edge of the rim and painted the candle holder gliding down too fast for me to fix it.
Shit! I almost knocked it down completely off of the table. Desperately trying to ignore the pain on my ankle, I half ran-half limped across the room up the staircase.
My footsteps carried me down the hall in a frantic hurry towards the familiar path where my room was. The ice cold tile felt hard against me as I ran on my tip toes and my chest tightened as I glanced all around each elaborate hallway. Reaching the icy double knobs, I twisted them and shut myself inside of my dark abyss.
Glancing left and right, I reached over and pulled the long, draped rope near my bed frame until my room lit up to a lightened shimmer and sweeped its unique hue across my rose-colored bedroom. I hummed out my discomfort from the throbbing pain in my ankle and took a few shaky steps forward trying to decide my next move.
Shit shit shit! How?! She's here already?
My mouth trembled and I bit my lip. This wasn't going to be easy. I was gonna go tonight. I can't have all this pressure happen. I had to go and I had to be fast before I changed my mind. I can't believe I'm doing this.
I dashed across the room into my walk-in closet and during days like this, it made me really wish it wasn't as big as it was-it's basically another room. Grunting, I lifted and tossed a large pink and white polka dot duffle bag with cheetah print designs on my bed and started throwing random items inside.
"Wait." I said aloud. "Let's go with black. More discreet. We'll keep the accessories colorful."
Pulling out my black duffle, I repeated the process.
Toothbrush. Check.
Robe. Check.
Extra sets of clothes and undergarments. Check.
Phone charger. Check.
Face scrub. Check.
And a few cosmetics. Check.
" I just needed a couple more things-where is it?!" I swore under my breath. Pulling a swimsuit out of my closet just in case with another added lounge set and then running over to my marble dressers to do the same.
"I really hope Tony I appreciates the effort I'm putting into this!" I cursed as I flung another article to the side and grabbed my mini YSL perfume bottle. Squeezing the pump and spritzing the expensive contents all over my body and tossing it into my bag. A glimmer of hope flashed across my eye and I swept over a silk piece of fabric. With a sigh of relief, I pulled out my beige trenchcoat and full body black one-piece and put them on. I tossed a few more cosmetics in my bag along with hair products inside my chic black dufflebag along with a second pair of shoes. I had full faith my gorgeous pieces will give me more than enough attention tonight to get what I want.
I pulled out my finishing powder and patted my makeup in some. Adding an extra shade of face serum to my eyes before smoothing on my light fruit punch flavored lip gloss. Carefully studying myself, I wanted a mysterious, alluring look. Something that kept my confidence up and kept a certain someone interested in giving me all the answers I needed in case I ran into him.
"Now what was I missing?" I thought aloud while wrapping my trench around me tighter looping the belt together. I smoothed it out into the mirror and smiled.
The sleek black one-piece was stitched and threaded by fine cotton and showed a bit of cleavage and hugged every inch and curve of my body. The word 'Bombshell' across my chest from my necklace. Pulling on my jet black gloves and zipping up my matching designer boots. I added a final touch by brushing my wavy auburn hair into a high thick ponytail. Pulling a few strands loose to frame my face and place my black shades over my head.
Last, but not least, my charm bracelet I got as a gift for my birthday last year.
I arched my back and spun around gazing at my reflection in the mirror and winked.
"I look fly, I look good" I sang to myself and whipped out my phone. I had one thing left to do if I wanted to get out of here. Call my driver and get up out of here. Hopefully he wasn't too far.
Pulling a strand of my hair behind my ear, I brought my phone up and listened to the dialing tone zipping my bag closed. Grunting, I threw it over my shoulder and hurried to make my way towards the double doors.
"I'll just tell Jeanette that I felt tired an-
Knock! Knock! Knock!
"Brittany! You in there?!" Destiny's voice called out.
Fear rose into my body. I whipped my head up to stare in shock at the tall wooden doors. The heavy rain picked up louder along with another crash of thunder.
"What, no!" I half screamed running and half slipping as I brought my bag to the other side of my room and tossed it under my vanity and leaned around to pull another elaborate silk rope to dim my lights.
"No no no no no NO! Shit!" I frantically looked both ways before looking at the door once more. My heart beat loudly and I couldn't control my breathing.
She knocked again.
"Brittany?"
"Um.."
I tried to think fast and immediately coughed out loud a few times. Sick? Yes, that's it! I could fake being sick from the rain!
"Brittanyyyy!" Destiny sang out again, she jingled the handles. "I know you're in there. Come on girl, unlock the door! I want you to tell me all about your night!"
I immediately inhaled a bit and let out a high pitched fake sneeze hoping she'd buy it. I jumped across the room racing trying to get to the door in time. I had to make this believable, I had to! I wasn't ready to tell her and Jeanette what was going on! I didn't know what they'd think of Eleanor or what they would possibly say about Alvin and Dave. While they were one of the fewest people I could trust, I wasn't ready to get them talking. Mentally, I just wasn't prepared.
"Hello?"
I groaned in my frantic pursuit of the door. "Not now Julio."
Hold on.
I skidded straight into a stop.
"Wait?... Julio?!" I held the phone up and then brought it back up to my ear.
"Julio?" Destiny called out in confusion, "What about him?"
"Mmph.." I bit my lip hard and grabbed a fistful of my hair and tugged it out of frustration. This was getting out of control. I had completely forgotten I was calling him!
"Yes, Ms. Brittany. What can I do for you?" He said in a smooth accent. I could still hear the racing of the engine and the heavy rainfall. He was still inside the limo. "Did you forget something inside of the limousine?"
"Yes! Um...wait no!" I sheepishly explained in a hushed manner. Trying to have Destiny not hear me. This was getting out of hand. How was I going to explain this?
"Brittney...you're starting to scare me a bit, girl. What's going on?", Destiny lowered her voice. "Is everything okay? What's wrong?"
Shit!
"Destiny...um…" I gave a few fake ugly coughs and shielded my hand over the bottom of my phone to keep him from listening in, " Hold on a bit o-okay?!".
"Umm...okay..", Destiny muttered in confusion. I felt so guilty hiding this from her. "Well can you at least open the door?"
I bit my lip and frantically leaped away to the front of my bed. Pressing my mouth to my phone, "Are you still there?", I whispered quietly and frantically. Beads of sweat creased over my brow.
"Yes. What can I do for you?" His smooth thick accent came out again. I licked my lips trying to figure out what to say.
"Hey um.." I peaked over my bed trying to see if anyone was there, " Hi...I have something very urgent I need to ask you...right now." It sounded like he was adjusting his phone from all of the static I started to hear. I knew it was from the reception from the rainfall.
"Are you still there?" I asked desperately.
I'm not sure if I heard a smile in his voice. "Yes, I asked if you needed a ride somewhere, Ms. Miller."
My eyes lit up. "I do. I really really do...Can you come back and pick me up and take me somewhere? I'm so sorry to ask something on late notice, but I'll pay you extra!", I tried bargaining with him, " I really need you to take me to the Grand London." I swore under my breath as I crouched down. I hadn't thought of any reasons to explain why I needed to go there. Plus, it was not exactly down the street.
I paused and waited for him to answer, instead I heard more rainfall pouring down.
"Well, I am a bit far...It will probably take me a while to get there. You know Los Angeles traffic never really goes away." He replied said with a yawn that made me feel even more guilty, "Why didn't you tell me about this sooner? I could've got on the other highway. "
"I'm really sorry. It won't happen again, it's just that it's Tony's orders and-
"Tony? Really? Alright, I'll be there. I haven't yet reached the freeway to Highway 101 yet."
My heart rested and I closed my eyes letting out a breath of relief. "Thank you so much. It was random and last minute for me too. I'll make sure it gets added to your pay, personally."
"If you insist."
Getting the courage to rise out of my crouching position, I straightened out my trenchcoat and tied it back together. Hopefully Destiny is gone by now. Hopefully.
Fear was written all over my face as I carefully tiptoed maneuvering myself closer and closer across to my double doors. I pressed my hand towards the door and leaned my head against the polished wood to what sounded like more than one voice coming towards me.
I covered my mouth and my eyes shot open once I realized what was happening.
"Yeah...yeah I know ...Yes, I already tried but she won't open up!" Destiny's voice rang out followed by the sound of metal. It sounded like she was eating something. " You think she got sick or something?"
"I don't know…", Jeanette's voice sounded louder like she was getting closer. "She did get a little sick at the restaurant."
Not like she needed to know that, Jean!
I bit my lip in frustration. Why did you have to say that, Jeanette? Now I had to...wait. Wait, no yes! This was just what I needed! I brought both hands over my mouth again and cleared my voice as quietly as I could. Time to put my acting skills to the test.
"U-um...hey you guys?" I croaked out hoping I sounded believable enough.
"Hey! You okay?" They both spoke in unison.
"Hi-hey I'm..." I cleared my voice and managed to make out a fake, dramatic cough. "I really am feeling kind of exhausted from everything that happened today and the weather is really getting to me so think I'm just gonna go ahead and lay down and call it a night." I answered dishonestly.
"Oh, are you sure?" Jeanette asked with uncertainty in her voice. "I really wanted you to see the movie."
"And I don't need you to tell me about the food because it's freaking fantastic." Destiny told me as I heard a scraping noise that sounded like a fork on a plate, "This lobster pasta is so bomb!"
I giggled from the other side of the door in unison with them. Destiny was so silly, but I needed to keep up my act, "Yeah girls, I'm sorry. And I look like a complete mess right now. I'm about to go to sleep."
Guilt from the lies flowed through me and I gulped hoping they'd buy it.
"Okay…", I heard Jeanette mutter something to Destiny, "We understand. You're still free to come downstairs if you want, though. I think I'm gonna go get some pasta, too."
Destiny agreed eagerly, "I might get seconds!"
I half-smiled, guilt rushing through me. "Goodnight girls...sorry again." I said in a fake sickly voice.
"Feel better, see ya." Destiny said with a mouth full of food.
"Goodnight, Brittany," Jeanette replied giggling to Destiny who engaged her in some random story about the last time she had pasta this good.
I waited for their footsteps to go away and sound more faint before I let out a sigh of relief. I brought myself down to my knees letting out little laughs of air.
"Ohmygosh...Thank goodness they fell for it." I took a deep breath and tried to relax, pulling my phone out and switching to my messages to see where my driver was so I could sneak out of here.
A small sound knocked me out of my trance.
Freezing, I stopped. I glanced around me, turning both ways. Slowly, I brought myself up and looked at my phone, then behind me, then finally at the door.
What?...
I squinted my eyes together and my brows creased together. Leaning my body, I very slowly took a step forward and brought my hand back onto the door, pressing my ear against the cold wooden frame. It started off silently at first, then like it got farther away. I wasn't hearing things, was I?
I took a deep breath and braced myself for whatever. I unlocked the door and gently took the fancy handle in my hand and twisted it as slow as I could, careful not to make any creaking noises. I blinked when the light of the hallway briefly blinded me and looked around. The sound was coming from towards the side of the staircase I couldn't see.
"...Oh I know….yeah...No, I didn't believe her either…"
My eyes widened and shame surfaced inside my body. I felt like a ghost had walked right through me. Embarrassment decorated my skin and echoed throughout my mind and inside my chest. I shut my door as quietly as I could and pressed my back against the door. My chest was heaving in and out trying to catch up with my breaths.
I gulped trying to steady myself.
What was I going to do? How was I going to explain myself to them? It was too late now.
I thought quickly to myself and frantically let out a couple of more dramatic coughs hoping that they could hear me and dialed my driver's number again quickly while I gathered the rest of my stuff together now tossing extra random items into my bag.
"I need you to step on it."
'Please hurry!'
I sent out the text to Julio and bit my lip. "Come on...come ON…"I whispered. " Tony had better appreciate the effort I'm putting into this."
It was starting to feel like an hour. I kept checking my phone. After a while, I got a call.
"Great, I'm coming right now." I hung up my phone and tied my trench coat together, giving myself one last look in the mirror. I pulled a few strands out to frame my face then sped towards my duffle bag and brought it over my shoulder.
"This isn't too much stuff, was it", I asked myself before shaking my head, "I have to do what I have to do."
Something is going on with everyone and I need to see what's up. If Tony told me to get somewhere, I was coming. The last time I had to make an impromptu visit, I found myself in line to winning an American Music Award.
I peeked out of my door trying to peer down the dark hallway and carefully eased one leg outwards and closed the door behind me quietly, adjusting my bag over my shoulder.
"Starting with you, Alvin."
I eased down the hallways gently. Gliding across the marble flooring, grabbing the railing to make it down the stairs. One foot after another, I trailed step after step curving around the main double staircase. Trying to look for each step was difficult, I squinted my eyes carefully not to fall and not to make any noise seriously grateful for that one spy movie I was in.
My phone beeped a second time indicating my driver was outside ready. But, Jeanette and Destiny were my real concerns, so I hurried to silence my phone. Reaching the bottom step, I hurriedly ran through the halls searching left and right towards any trace of them before I left. I didn't want them to see me walk out.
It started faint at first, then I heard it. I could hear a stream of violins followed by a haunted gothic chorus. I heard struggling, screaming, and a creaking noise followed by a body hitting the ground. What were they watching again?
Creeping across our second dining room, I could make out a large booming light. I bowed low grunting as my bag rested on my back and walked ducking behind the island in our kitchen. My hands reached up slowly, taking hold of the counter and peered over slowly.
Over the counter on the couches were Jeanette and Destiny. They were cuddled up in a couple of large blankets giggling and talking amongst themselves.
"What's so great about this movie?" I whispered to myself, "Is it a mystery or a horror?"
I watched silently. I saw a meek woman who had really pretty eyes and a thick accent, but nothing else that stood out to me. And there it was. A man appeared. The grandfather. Was it her grandfather?
"No! No, we have got to get you out of this! Think of your mom." He told her, grasping her shoulders tightly
"…my mom?" she replied tearfully.
I recognized this actor. He was in a lot of different films. What was his name again?
Watching, waiting...there was something wrong. Was he sick? Dying? The old man was giving her detailed instructions, concocting a plan of some sort. I blinked. What are they watching? Is this the same movie Jeanette wanted me to watch?
"The dogs will know you, they shouldn't bark. You got to get up to the third floor without being seen. And the only way is to climb the side trellis and come in through the trick hall window."
The window was high up. Even though I was distracted, I couldn't help but watch. The window was literally high up on the third floor of the house.
She shook her head.
"You gotta be kidding me."
He responds.
"I am not. Do it."
Now she was climbing up the side of the house to get in the window.
Alright, I've seen enough. I creeped and heaved my bag around in front of me and kicked it into the hallway during a loud noise in the movie. I heard Jeanette and Destiny laughing to each other.
On the floor- I might add- I crawled quickly to the other side of the wall, but there was the issue that now I had less light. I swore under my breath making it to the darkest part of the hall and dusted myself off. I lifted my bag and blew out a breath of air setting it down and went over to the door pulling out my phone. Pulling the curtain and glancing out of the arched window, it was still raining. How was I going to get outside without the girls hearing the door? My eyes went to peak back at Jeanette and Destiny who were still laughing over the film.
Jeanette had shrieked at a small jump scare and Destiny had smacked her with a pillow. They both erupted into a series of serious giggles. They looked like they were having so much fun. The rain was still picking up and was beginning to have some second thoughts. The hard drops of rain against the glass started to make me feel a little guilty. My driver coming back in this rain seemed dangerous, but it was Tony's orders. I could just tell him no…
I thought about Tony's urgent message and knew it was too late to turn back now, I was going. There was something off about everyone and everything and there were some issues that needed to be solved. There was something going on and I had to find out.
I brought up my diamond colored compact with a tiny illumination of light to make sure my face was alright. I blew a strand of hair away. Turning, I carefully unlocked the door. Shakily, I pulled the door open a crack, the scent of rain and nature emerged from the crack of the door. I squinted my eyes through the heavy chill of the air blowing against my nose and cheeks.
A golden illuminating light flashed from a distance. It moved around and grew ever so slightly as it maneuvered from far away. A smile formed on my face.
"Bingo."
He was here.
"Perfect."
The reality of it all made me giddy. With the soft melodies of the film playing from the living room, I whipped my head around frantically, wondering if they heard me. Then I heard the voice of Destiny stating that she was going to get up for something.
My chest ran cold. The kitchen light was turned on and now the hall from where I was partially lit up its aura. I raced to the window and peered out to see the lights in front of our house pulling closer.
"I'm so thirsty!" Destiny yawned. I heard the refrigerator door open, her voice was so much louder from where she was standing. "What do you want to drink, Netta?"
Jeanette cleared her throat from the next room, I heard some shuffling and then the sound of the movie going silent. I could feel the tension rise in my face. They were gonna see me leaving if I didn't do something fast.
Her voice was migrating closer, "Um...I think I'm just gonna make me some tea."
My heart was thumping and thrashing. In ragged breaths, I gulped down and grabbed my duffle bag and heaved it over my shoulder. Stepping backwards, my fingertips grazing the icy, chilled doorknob. I slowly, gradually took another step, but half-gasped at a loose, creaking floorboard caused me to fumble backwards.
"Huh? What was that just now?" Destiny questioned.
The refrigerator door slammed shut.
"Did you hear something?" Jeanette was closer now, her voice sounding almost right next to Destiny's from the kitchen.
"Yeah, I did. Wait…do you think it could've been…?"
I shut the door softly behind me. The heavy rain was pouring down so hard it made loud shushing noises sounding like a waterfall. I shot a look over at the limousine to see it had just pulled up and was making a stop. Wasting no time, I threw my hood over my head gently locking the doors and tip-toed backwards in a rush before turning around to make a dash for my ride.
"Oof!"
The impact of the collision stunned me and my eyes readjusted to see my driver standing right in front of me still in uniform. The rain was heavy and pouring down hard drenching my trench coat, my mood was elevated seeing as now that I was beginning to be drenched again.
"Hello, Ms. Miller. What was the emergency?"
But I dropped my head trying to turn away before he could search my face for any information regarding my strange request. Instead I shook my head rapidly, urging him backwards to open the door..
"No time now." With a grunt, I handed him my bag and lifted myself in the back on the ride as he placed my duffle bag into the back seat.
"I'll explain everything later, just drive!"
My driver made a confused expression, nodding and shutting the door. He made his way over to the front of the limousine and got in. I looked around the car. Everything was as exquisite as when we left it. Sparkling drinks and ice still on the side of the diamond compartments.
"Lights off." I commanded. The lights above me dimmed down so the silver shimmering stars appeared on the ceiling shining down at me.
Squinting my eyes, I climbed towards the other side of the limo and rubbed my hand in a circle to wipe away the fog to peer out of the window, peeking out to see anything. The rain was coming down fast and I could hear the droplets on the roof. The limo started up and my eyes widened. I could make out a light from inside being turned on right where the front door was and a shadow slowly appearing.
I gasped backing up from the window, "DRIVE!"
At my command, the limousine sped off down the hilltop pulling around the corner to make the first of many turns down the slippery slope nearly hurling itself off the hill.
"Oof!..Oww…!" I was thrown over to the other side of the ride.
I shakily tried to retain my balance when we hit another turn and my mouth dropped as my bag fell over and hit me in the back while I was trying to get up.
The water splashed around us as we made our way out of my neighborhood, the rain still pouring. I pushed my bag up and hurled it over to the other side to make sure it didn't fall on me again. I groaned and touched my forehead.
"Ugh...I just know there's going to be a bruise there tomorrow."
I scanned my hands for any sign of blood or scrapes. Finding none, I slowly sat up and strapped myself in like I should've done the second I got in and pulled out my phone checking to see if I had any messages. None.
As we finally got out of sight and down the hill, our mansion in the distance stood tall and eerie with the late night sky and heavy rain cascading over it.
"Come on, Brittany...You did it...No need to feel bad, you can't go back now."
I took one more final breath. Sitting back, I felt dizzy and sleepy. My annoyingly long dramatic day was catching up to me. I didn't really take a full nap either and I didn't know how long it was going to take to get there, but I hoped I could at least get a few minutes of rest. My eyes started to fall as I leaned back into the soft cushions sinking into the material. I brought my head back and felt myself drifting away as we made our way onto the freeway.
The sound of rain and wind combined with the motion of the ride was slowly putting me to sleep when something flashed across my face. It wouldn't move. Groaning in annoyance, I peeked one eye out peering around.
"What the-..." I paused and sat up straight and looked closer to the right out of the window where all the cars were behind us. It was one particular vehicle that had its brights on behind us. I covered my eyes to try to get a closer look at the plates when I saw a few numbers at the end of it ending in 310.
I yelped when I heard static coming from the speaker, interrupting the music that was playing. It meant my driver was trying to communicate with me. A long breath dragged out of me as I pushed the button on the speaker.
"Hello?" I asked.
Suddenly, the same light from before flashed from behind me and reflected off of the front windshield. I choked on a breath almost instantly. Before he could even speak and a familiar tone danced across from me. Looking over to where my phone fell, there was flashing light indicating I had a text message.
I muttered a few swear words and felt the blood drain from my face and leaned down slowly. I hope it wasn't Jeanette or Destiny. Being discreet was not my best talent, I was reaching out to where my phone was on the floor without much success.
A sudden shift in the limo caused my phone to cascade to the other side of where I was reaching. Then another sudden jolt in the car threw me forward. I heard Julio swear and spit out a few unkind words as he tried to take back control of the car through the speaker. I heaved and gasped as I was tossed across the floor. The movement left me in a daze when I sat back up, a sharp pain shooting through my back.
"Ouccchh...fuck what was that…?" I rubbed my backside in annoyance. Now I was in desperate need of a massage. The crap that has happened today has been too much.
Was this guy behind us for real?! I bet this had something to do with that stupid car behind us flashing his bright lights! My phone was right next to me. I swaggered from side to side as the limo rocked a bit and reached to take a hold of my phone.
"No no, sorry." I heard my driver call out, "That was my fault. Some of these people are usually under the influence at this time of night. What were you saying?"
"No no no it's okay." I waved my hand blowing the situation off and began to tap my fingers along my lap bringing my head around and checking for the reckless driver, but there was no car behind us.
He cleared his voice, "I was asking what you wanted me to turn around and come get you, what was the occasion? Was it an emergency from you or from Tony?"
Wait, is that really what he thought it was? An emergency? Well yeah.. I don't know what.. Kind of. Why did it matter?
"Yep. Urgent orders from Tony. He wants me at Grand London pronto."
I don't like my business to be in everybody's throat. Even though I didn't have a reason to not trust my team, there was still always something in the back of my mind. That's why I was the way I was with Destiny, Tony, and any others. I kept them close, but not too close.
Reaching over to grab the drink of the cooler to call myself down, I took a strand of hair to place behind my ear and gulped down the chilled water we had down my throat.
"Some music execs or some business meeting. Either way he wants me there fast. I just got the news. So yeah...that's what happened."
Bringing my eyes back up to the starry night sky outside, I couldn't help but feel paranoid while I tried to keep my eyes open. After a few moments, I noticed some brief hesitation before he spoke again through the speakers. Weren't we done here?
"Ah forgive me for prying, but... are you certain, miss?"
I started to shake, what was he talking about?
"It seems like only just a while ago, Tony told me that there were no more calls for the night is all…He stated the party he was at was exclusive and they would be serving alcohol for those 21 and up…Even then, I thought you would be bringing your sister with you…", his voice trailed off.
"Look. I don't want to talk about it okay. There's just something I need to have to get done that I just can't explain right now."
And then it was silent. The cars whizzing by became louder as we made it down an area deeper into Los Angeles. It was silent for a moment as if the Earth stood still and we were the only ones moving. Dark shadowy skyscrapers were almost hidden in the heavy rain.
My lips curled tightly into a frown. I could feel heat boiling inside of me. The fatigue was written across my brow, I was tired and done with the questioning from everyone today. I growled under my breath a final time. I couldn't help it. The clock was ticking and I was done playing games and being nice.
He said nothing and went back to driving, I let out a short breath. I carelessly brought my arm on the armrest and let my head fall into my hand resting my eyes. The events of today got to me heavily now. I might just fall asleep in the lobby. Can I do that? No, this place was so highly recommended, even some celebrities are unable to make it on the list unless they pay the hefty price beforehand.
I could hear the splashing of the water on the ground, but the thumping of the rain on the window had stopped. It had stopped raining. My eyes were drooping. Gosh, what I would give to be in a warm bed right now. I hope this is worth it.
My snapped open at the sound of my driver clearing his throat.
"...You don't have to worry, Ms. Brittany. We're almost there. " Before I knew it, the partition was rolling down. His eyes move back to the rearview mirror to as if apologizing then back to the road. "I was not trying to pry. You don't have to tell me anything. That was my fault for intruding."
"Yeah, it's fine. Really." I waved him off, looking back out the window. Scanning the highway as we made our way off the freeway into a well-lit, manicured posh part of LA.
"No, no. It is my fault. I shouldn't have-
"It was just a question that you asked, Julio. Honestly. It's not my fault, but I'm legally an adult, but no one wants to take me seriously because I'm still 19. I get it."
Which is causing me to wonder how Alvin was able to be here. The fact that he was able to get in attendance and not me created a streak of jealousy inside of me.
He always gets what he wants. I was still 19, and he was 20. Not even old enough to get into the party, but who would be the one to tell him to leave? Nobody. My being there may be tolerated, but may issue a scandal.
Pfft. Grand London you'd better be worth it.
Against all odds, I did manage to see his eyes take an apologetic stance as we locked eyes, but my resting bitch face made him draw his gaze back onto the road and maneuver the limousine down the well lit path where I leaned against the window seal. My eyes were becoming really droopy, this was the fourth time I had to keep my head from banging against the window.
I knew I was one crazy bitch. I had never done something like this. I'd still have to think of an explanation to Jeanette about how I mysteriously vanished. Did I take it too far? Though, I could just use the whole manager excuse, but I did say I felt sick. Fuck.
20 minutes had passed and I didn't wanna think about it anymore. I was scrolling through my phone and almost done with the drink I grabbed out of the cooler. The rain had died down. But when I reached for another one, it slipped out of my hands and my mouth dropped in a perfect 'o' at what I saw.
As we came closer, a view of a tall structure came into view. It soared and nearly scraped the dark shadowy sky. A large body of water was settled in front of the hotel stretching far and wide, blasting water in the air as people watched on, pointing and snapping pictures. Statues decorated the outside in many unique and defined poses capturing an ancient feel.
There was an assortment of valet drivers and a couple of limousines pulling in around the circular roundabout. I could see immaculately dressed members of the hotel escorting people up the wide staircase and through the doors of the "palace". The words 'Grand London Palace' were spelled out in cursive highlighting the posh environment and way at the top of the hotel from what I could see, inside of the windows I could make out a club like atmosphere going on in the highest level of the establishment.
…..!
The entire hotel was lit up in white-gold hues. It took the city and redefined it, the colors soared through the sky, electrifying it. Was I in Vegas?
The limousine took us up a bit ahead closer to the valet where it was almost time for me to get out. As I peered closer, from the narrow path we were on, I could see a clear body of water underneath where gondolas were pulling people for a late night ride around the hotel since the rain had died down.
I pulled my duffle bag closer to me and took a long swig of my drink that fell on the floor earlier. Setting it back down, I looked up and caught eyes with on of the statues, peering closer as we came to a brief stop, I noticed the gorgeous dark-skinned female statue with an exotic afro puff ponytail up close was decorated in golden paint all over her face, frozen in place.
"Huh…" I muttered as I scanned up and down her body noticing the sleek glitter and diamonds around her hips and thighs, when I realized in faint horror she did not have on any clothes and something was oddly real about her. I locked eyes with it again when she suddenly winked at me.
I shrieked out of my skin when I realized with faint horror that all of the 'statues' were real people.
"Wow, what the hell?!" I threw on my shades and pulled my bag and myself away from the window as we rode further to the front of the hotel. I could see her laugh as we drove away. I rocked back and fluffed my hair a bit, my chest still racing. I had to be discreet. Nimble. Nobody could know that I was here. The tabloid had already seen enough of me tonight. I did not need them knowing my whereabouts. It would make things harder to tell Jeanette and Destiny later.
I swiped through my phone making sure I didn't have any messages and adjusted my shades as the valet walked up to my limousine as we pulled to a stop. I texted my manager immediately.
Outside.
I wanted to make this as quick as possible before anyone noticed so when my driver walked in front of the valet to open my door, I practically shoved my duffle bag at him. My shades were on and I brought a long, slender leg out to where I was met with an ocean of roars from all of the commotion and many rides pulling up. Then I brought my other leg forward and took his hand as I made my way out, smoothing out my trench coat trying to ignore the flirtatious whistles I was receiving. Everyone seemed to stop what they were doing and seemed taken aback fixing their stare over to where I was.
"Why is everyone acting like they've seen a ghost?"
"Well...Ms. Brittany…" Julio started glancing at the limo.
I took my duffle bag from him, and shot him a look through my frames. I barked in annoyance.
"What?"
"Your initials." He adjusted his driver's hat giving a side nod over to my limousine which caused the blood to drain from my face.
How could I forget?
My initials were engraved on to the limo in black and gold cursive. Everyone could easily recognize that I was here now.
"Well so much for showing up discreetly!" I whispered frantically stomping my heel. Luckily this was a prestigious hotel full of the hottest celebs and well known individuals. No one was going to act starstruck no matter how much they wanted to. There was that.
I huffed in annoyance. Great. I pursed my lips and shook my head, swearing again. So much for me wanting my limo to be unique.
My duffle bag was over my shoulder and I adjusted my shades once more, jamming my hand into my pockets making sure I had my phone.
I shot my head around at Julio wondering what he was waiting for. He scrunched his eyebrows skeptically at me as I patted my pockets where I had a few hundred dollars on me. This was usually the part where I handed him a tip. I know he went out of his way for me especially since he was not on the clock.
I waved him off, "Go, go! Tony will take care of it."
"But–
I hissed back, "Shh, just go! I just need to-"
I groaned heavily and slapped my hand on my forehead seeing that more people were starting to make eye contact with me and comes towards my direction. I needed a new driver after this. I know Julio cares, but Marc doesn't ask this many questions. He just does his job and goes. That was how I liked it. With my duffle bag over my shoulder, I went as quickly as my legs could carry me and made my way through the entrance before anyone could follow me without another word.
It was loud, the deafening kind. There was a hustle and bustle of bodies moving in and out of the wide open space. There must've been a celebration or maybe the aesthetic was romance because there were many red roses. They were carved into the floors and stocked into the walls. I squinted my eyes to see if I recognized anyone. I knew I had to blend in like the normal person that I wasn't.
Brushing forward and keeping my head down, I moved with the crowd. I didn't know if I should text my agent or if I should make my way to reception. I had to have a connect here. No matter what, someone was able to help me.
Picking up the pace, I headed down an elegant hall. There looked to be a theater/restaurant to my left with a small stairway leading down to it. On the right side was reception and an ensemble of people checking in.
People were all over the place. Some were clearly under the influence and others were a part of who-knows-who and happy to be here entourages. I narrowly dodged a group of snickering socialites, rowdy B listers, and cigar smoking highrollers.
There was an air of jazz in the air and see-through glass elevators that went straight to the ceiling. A couple of influencers waltzed by like they owned the place. A few others were taking photos since the place seemed to be decorated with an abundance of bouquets and archways.
I could spot a bar on the other side in the middle of another entryway packed with bartenders and people dressed in designer clothes having their second and third drink. In the center where I was, there was a waterfall centerpiece where others were also sitting and posing under. The water and jazz music barely drowned out the noise of everything.
All of a sudden, I could make out a black figure in a dark ensemble who noticed me in the crowd of noise and gave a signal on his watch. Suddenly, a few more came out of nowhere. The more I turned to alter my direction, I would notice several of them were around the corner. I pressed my shades to my face and tried not to notice them. I went around another corner and then another. Until I realized with faint horror that they were making their way towards me.
The elevators were up ahead and had taken their last group. I had no other choice, but to succumb to the black figures making their way from around the corner. Then, the next one, and then next. I could see them coming fast, but there was nowhere to go. Turning on my heel, I was about to race towards the nearest bathroom where they couldn't approach me until I met face first with a sea of black.
"Come on, I'll take you to your room."
A/N: Brittany is a controversial character at times. You will not always like or agree with her decisions. Tell me what you think about them. Tell me about how you all are doing, hope you guys are thriving and safe. We are back guys. If the story must go on hiatus again, I will notify, but it feels so good to be back.
Can you believe the whole chapter was going to be 74 pages? I had to split it in half. Hence, a part 1 and 2.
References:
I do not own these products/brands nor am I associated with them.
YSL: Fashion House
Knives Out: A mystery movie by Rian Johnson
Highway 101: Some interstate route in Los Angeles
'I look fly, I look good': A song by Victoria Monet called 'On My Mama'
GLP: Loosely based on the Bellagio and Venetian hotels in Las Vegas