Hey guys! Here is another addition I know you will love!
Also, I published a new story, Tempting Fate: A Glee Reality Show. They didn't send out an email, so no one who follows me will see it, so I am telling you here! Trust me, you want to read it! Once I know people have seen it I will add chapter three. If not, I will just republish it later. Enjoy!
The relaunch party was in full swing when Sam wandered through the crowd. Everyone congratulated him and told him how smart he was to leave with Mercedes. So that was the story? He left when Mercedes did, and he had to agree that it made him look like his own man, like he chose the winning side.
But everyone's comments left him heavy with regret and the bitter taste of realization that he screwed up, and if it wasn't for Mercedes, he'd be back home on the farm, licking his wounds. He was an asshole.
The room's energy tried to lift his spirits, and it kinda did. With the electric music, laughter, and the clinking of champagne glasses, it felt both intoxicating and isolating.
He had tried to put the last few months behind him, not wanting to face his mistakes, but as he surveyed the scene, every smile and every laugh seemed to echo his own failure.
Across the room, beneath a cascade of soft purple lights, Mercedes held court.
Dressed in a stunning, form-fitting purple gown that accentuated her curves and exuded authority, she moved gracefully among the guests.
Her hair, cascading in elegant waves down her back, framed her face with a quiet radiance that commanded attention.
Sam's eyes narrowed as they fell on a new figure. He heard him say his name was Zack, and though Sam wasn't sure if he was an Author or Editor, it was clear he had eyes for Mercedes.
With his easy charm and confident smile, Zack was engaged in an animated conversation with Mercedes. He laughed a little too loudly at her jokes and leaned in just a bit too close, his hand briefly brushing hers as he made a point.
Every time their eyes met, Zack's gaze was warm and inviting, a subtle but unmistakable flirtation. It was clear that he wanted Mercedes.
A surge of jealousy and regret roiled within Sam. He remembered every misstep that had led him here—the careless decisions, the half-hearted apologies, the missed opportunities. He'd screwed up, and now, watching Mercedes so effortlessly command the room while Zack's flirtations grew bolder by the minute, he felt the sting of his own inadequacy.
Sam took a hesitant step toward them, unable to bear it any longer. His heart pounded in his ears as he forced himself through the throng of partygoers.
He wanted to confront the situation and reclaim something he felt slipping away. But every step forward made his stomach twist tighter with anxiety.
As he approached, Mercedes' laughter rang out like crystal, and Zack turned his head to greet him with a friendly, if not overly familiar, smile. "Sam, right?! Glad you could join us; Mercedes was just telling me about your wonderful book!" Zack said his tone light as if it were perfectly normal for him to be flirting with the very woman who had once meant everything to Sam. It was as if they were already a duo, and Sam was the outcast set to witness their love.
Mercedes' smile faltered ever so slightly at the sight of Sam. Her eyes traveled to his outfit: the black slacks, white collared shirt, and green blazer, which on everyone else would look rather normal, but on him, it caused her to linger on him.
Her smile, once ablaze with confidence, now flashed with a mixture of surprise and something unspoken—a silent apology or regret—Sam wasn't sure which.
For a moment, the space between them felt charged with memories of what had been and what could have been.
"Hey, Sam," Mercedes said, voice neutral but carrying an undercurrent of restraint. "I'm glad you're here."
Zack interjected cheerfully, "Yeah, Sam, we were just discussing some of the new projects—big things are coming up!" His hand gestured expansively, but Sam barely registered the motion.
Instead, his focus was on Mercedes—on the way her eyes softened when she looked at him and excused herself to address the other partygoers.
Zack followed her like an eager companion, and that just annoyed Sam more.
Silas, ever the observer, caught Sam's gaze and gave him a look that said everything without a word—a mix of sympathy, encouragement, and, perhaps, a silent challenge to do something about it. Blaine, nearby, leaned over and murmured, "Don't let him steal her away from you, Sam."
But as Sam stood there, his internal battle waged on. He had come here to make things right, to find redemption. Instead, he felt increasingly lost among the glitter and glamour, like a man haunted by every misstep.
Every time Mercedes laughed at Zack's comment, every time she touched his arm in passing, it was a reminder of how deeply he had failed—and how desperately he still wanted to be the one she cared about.
For a long moment, the noise of the party seemed to fade away, leaving Sam alone with his thoughts. He recalled Mercedes' words during their earlier meeting—her confident declarations, her determination to give him a second chance if he fought for it. He remembered the contract, the promise of a fresh start, and the hope that had sparked in his heart.
Now, seeing her with Zack, that hope flickered uncertainly, threatened by the reality of the night.
Unable to stand it any longer, Sam stepped closer to Mercedes, gently removing her from prying ears, his eyes pleading. "Mercedes," he began softly, his voice trembling with emotion, "I… I'm sorry."
"Sam, we already went through all that. I told you it was fine, " she assured him.
"No, it's not. Mercedes, I-" His words were cut short by Zack, who stepped in with a friendly laugh. "Hey, man, everything cool? Mercedes is needed up front." His tone was smooth, but Sam detected the undertone of something more—an invitation to forget the past.
Mercedes glanced at Sam, her expression torn. "Sam, this isn't the place or-" she started, but her voice trailed off as she noticed the pain in his eyes.
Sam's jaw clenched. "I've lost something irreplaceable, haven't I? I've lost you." His voice wavered, betraying the deep hurt beneath his words.
Mercedes looked away for a split second, her gaze drifting to the flickering lights of the party. "Sam… I'm trying to move forward," she said quietly. "I have responsibilities now, and all these new authors rely on me. I have a company to run. I don't want to think about relationships or anything like that right now."
Sam's eyes flashed with anger and sorrow. "I understand. But you know I never wanted to hurt you. I never meant to—" His words broke off, choked by emotion.
"I know Sam, " she assured him. There were things we both did to make the situation what it was and now we are moving forward—as friends."
Friends? Damn, that work hurt. As Mercedes walked away, Zack following him, Silas appeared out of nowhere, his voice low and steady. "Sam, if you really want to fix this, you need to show her that you're worth it—beyond all the mistakes. Don't let this opportunity slip away."
Blaine nodded in agreement, appearing as if out of thin air. "Man, don't let some pretty face and some flattery make you forget what really matters. You're not that guy anymore. You can be better."
As the conversation swirled around him, Sam felt the weight of his choices and realized that time was slipping by. He wasn't just facing competition—he was facing the consequences of his own indecision.
Seeing the look in his eyes, Mercedes seemed to struggle between duty and desire. But at that moment, the party raged around them, indifferent to the personal drama unfolding.
Sam took a step back, his heart pounding. He knew he needed to reclaim his place—both in his career and in her heart. But for now, as he stood there watching Mercedes navigate the crowded room with effortless grace, he realized with a sinking heart that he had screwed up. And if he didn't act soon, he might lose her forever.
The night was far from over, and as the live band struck up a new tune, Sam resolved that this would be the turning point. He would fight for what he truly wanted—no more letting dreams or doubts hold him back.
And somewhere amid the glitter and chatter, he silently vowed to himself that he would prove that he deserved Mercedes.
Mercedes stood at the head of the stage, a calm authority in the midst of the celebration. The expansive conference room—its walls dressed in soft lavender, blush pink, and deep plum hues, its plush seating arranged to invite conversation, and the New York skyline twinkling behind the floor-to-ceiling windows—seemed to hold its collective breath as she prepared to speak.
Clearing her throat, she began, "Good evening, everyone. Tonight isn't just a celebration of our successes—it's a celebration of a new beginning." Her voice resonated confidently throughout the room, commanding attention as every guest turned their gaze toward her.
"I want to start by thanking our dedicated staff. Your tireless work, commitment, and creativity have transformed this space into more than just an office—it's a vibrant community. I couldn't have asked for a better team, and I am honored to work alongside each and every one of you. I know I thought the transition would be tough, but you all coming together just made this so easy."
A warm murmur of approval and applause rippled through the crowd. Mercedes allowed herself a small, satisfied smile before continuing.
"To our esteemed partners, thank you for believing in me and our vision. Your support has been the cornerstone of our progress, and together, we will build something extraordinary." She paused, her eyes sweeping the room as she acknowledged the nods and smiles of the company's key figures.
Her gaze then softened as she looked toward the group of new authors gathered in the front row. "And to our brilliant authors—thank you for believing in the vision we have for you. Each of your voices matters; this year, we are committed to ensuring that every story is heard. I promise to meet with each of you personally over the coming weeks. For those of you heading out on tour soon, know that we will be right there with you every step of the way, ensuring that your journeys are as seamless and successful as possible."
A spark of enthusiasm ignited among the audience. Some authors exchanged excited glances, while industry insiders scribbled notes on their devices.
Mercedes continued, "This isn't just about marketing or sales—it's about shaping a future where every voice, no matter how small, is given the platform it deserves. We will rebrand, innovate, and break through the noise. And as we do, I want you to know that I stand by you and that I believe in your potential as much as I believe in our own."
At that moment, she reached onto the podium. She produced a gleaming contract that symbolized not only a new chapter for the company but also the start of a revolution in how they approached literature and storytelling. "I am proud to announce that this year, we are not only launching new projects and tours, but we are also offering an unprecedented sign-on bonus to our top talents—and already within the first month of us being here, we have projected earnings for our all of the authors we have in the contract that is estimated between 13.5 to 25 million dollars in the first year alone. We are as committed to investing in your dreams as we invest in our vision."
The room erupted into applause once again, the clink of glasses punctuating the powerful promise of change.
Mercedes raised her glass, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Let us toast to the future of our stories, the power of our voices, and new beginnings. Tonight, I invite you to embrace the journey ahead passionately and with purpose."
Glasses were raised, and in unison, the room echoed her sentiment: "To the future!"
For a long, beautiful moment, the energy in the room shimmered with hope and resolve. As the applause died down, guests mingled and shared smiles of genuine excitement. Some approached her to congratulate her on the bold new moves, while others exchanged hushed words of admiration.
As Mercedes stepped away from the stage, she caught snippets of conversation around her. One young author whispered to another about how empowering her speech had been; a seasoned Editor nodded in agreement, remarking on her unyielding vision; even a couple of skeptical voices softened in recognition of her undeniable prowess.
Walking off the stage, Mercedes felt the weight of the past weeks—of battles fought, opportunities lost, and mistakes made—slowly giving way to a newfound strength. She paused by the plush seating area near the windows, taking a moment to gaze out at the sprawling cityscape. The lights of New York twinkled like scattered promises, each one a testament to the infinite possibilities of the future.
In that reflective pause, she whispered softly to herself, "We're going to make a difference. We're going to change the game."
Meanwhile, across the room, Sam stood near a quiet corner, nursing a drink and watching the celebration unfold. His eyes, heavy with regret yet tinged with a glimmer of hope, met hers briefly before they drifted apart.
The evening's success, the roaring applause, and the palpable excitement all underscored Mercedes's determination to shape the future. Though Sam's heart ached at the realization of his own missteps, he couldn't help but feel that perhaps, just perhaps, there was still a chance for redemption.
As the party continued into the night, Mercedes moved confidently among her guests, exchanging heartfelt conversations, laughter, and promises of a brighter tomorrow. Her words had not only inspired her team and authors but also rekindled something inside those who had once doubted her.
Tonight marked the beginning of a new era—a time when every voice would be heard, and every dream, no matter how audacious, would have its chance to shine.
As the toast's echoes faded into the soft hum of the evening, Mercedes felt a stirring within her—a promise that the future, as uncertain as it was, held infinite possibilities for those brave enough to seize them.
After the party was long over, and Silas dropped Sugar off at her place, he and Sam made their way down the dimly lit corridor of the building, the revelry of the party now reduced to a distant murmur behind them. The cool night air accompanied their slow steps as they approached the entrance to Mercedes' apartment.
Just as they rounded the corner, both brothers froze. Outside her door, Mercedes stood with Zack in the soft glow of her light. The man had his arm draped possessively around her waist.
"Zack, thank you for getting me home, but I can take it from here."
"I know. I just wanted to let you know that I am putting my hat in the ring and that I want you to consider going out with me."
"Zack, I have a lot of work ahead of me; I am getting ready for these book tours, I like you, and you do have that Michael Ealy thing going with those gorgeous blue eyes. But I need time."
"Lucky for you, I think you are worth the wait." He said as he leaned in and pressed his lips to hers in a lingering, passionate kiss. For a long, suspended moment, time seemed to slow.
Mercedes' eyes were wide with shock as she stared at Zack, her expression a mixture of surprise and something more.
Slowly, Zack broke away, kissing her hand with a nod as he left her side. He moved towards Sam and Silas, offering a brief, smug nod before getting on the elevator.
Sam's heart sank as he took in the scene. He had expected to leave the party with some glimmer of hope—maybe a chance to start over—but instead, he saw what he never wanted to see.
His eyes searched the darkness for any sign of comfort, only to meet Mercedes' gaze for a split second.
Her eyes told him everything in that brief look: disappointment, betrayal, and an unspoken farewell. Without another word, she turned and walked inside, leaving him standing in the doorway, feeling more broken than ever.
Silas let out a heavy sigh, pulling Sam aside with a firm grip on his shoulder. "I'm sorry you had to see that, Sam," he said quietly, his tone laced with regret. "But now you know how Mercedes felt—seeing you with Quinn, feeling like you didn't value what you had."
Sam's eyes burned with a mixture of shame and anguish as he stood there, paralyzed by the moment. "I... I never meant to hurt her," he murmured, his voice trembling with the weight of his mistake.
Silas tugged him gently toward their shared apartment, his own frustration and disappointment evident in his every step. "You need to fix this, Sam. You can't just stand here and let it end like that. Mercedes—she's the only one who's ever truly believed in you. If you want her back, you need to show her you're willing to wait and play the long game for her to trust you again."
Sam hesitated for a moment, glancing back at the darkened doorway where Mercedes had disappeared. His mind raced with conflicting thoughts—regret, longing, and a deep-seated fear of losing her forever. "How am I supposed to do that, Silas?" he asked, his voice barely audible. "After all this… after everything that happened?"
Silas stopped and looked him in the eyes, his tone steady but insistent. "By being honest. Not just with her, but with yourself. You've got to admit that you messed up and let ambition and doubt cloud your judgment. Mercedes isn't just another stepping stone for your career—she's the person who helped you believe in your dream. You owe her more than half-measures."
Blaine's earlier words echoed in Sam's mind—the reminder that he'd lose it all if he didn't fight for what he truly wanted. "I know," Sam whispered, his eyes welling with regret. I thought I was doing what I needed to do for my career. I believed what Quinn said, and I let that dictate my choices. But I never wanted to lose her..."
Silas nodded. "Exactly. This isn't just about your book or the money, Sam. It's about who you are. You need to go to her, face her, and show her that you're willing to make things right with or without her wanting to be with you. Then you will show her the real you, not the one Quinn made you. No more running, no more letting others decide your fate."
Taking a deep, shuddering breath, Sam straightened his back. "You're right. I can't stand here and do nothing. I have to fix this. I need to tell her that I'm sorry—not just in words but with everything I am. I am going to focus on this tour and show her I am listening when she says she isn't ready."
Silas gave him a firm pat on the shoulder. "Then do it. And remember, I'm here for you. We all are. But you have to be the one to take that step."
Sam nodded with a newfound determination burning in his eyes, wiping away the traces of despair. He glanced once more toward the closed door of Mercedes' apartment, silently vowing that he would find a way to make her understand—if only he could reclaim the trust that had been shattered.
Silas opened the door to their room, and as they walked inside, the echo of their footsteps mingled with the distant hum of the city—a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there was always a chance for redemption if one was brave enough to reach out and grasp it.