CHAPTER THREE

 

Two days later [Monday]

A-List Magazine

Manhattan, New York

 

“Welcome to A-List magazine, how may I direct your call?”

Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves, I walk up to the receptionist’s desk with my schedule in hand of where I’m supposed to go in this absurdly huge building.

“I’m sorry; Mr. Timberlake is in a meeting right now can I take a message? Yes Mr. Stefano Gabbana.” Oh my god, did she just say Stefano Gabbana? As in Dolce and Gabbana? Oh my gosh. This is actually happening!

Breathe Tai and get it together girl. You can do this.

“Well, actually, I’m not his assistant, but his new assistant does start today. I can leave the message with them. Yes, yes of course…you have a good day. Bye-bye.”

When the receptionist hangs up her line I try to get her attention.

“Uh, hi, I’m here for…”

“Hang on a second.” She silences me with a raise of her manicured finger before she proceeds to take another call.

“A-List magazine, this is Sharron speaking how may I direct your call? Yes, Mr. Pattinson is waiting on those photos from King Magazine for the advert spread in A-List next month…”

God, her phone is ringing off the hook. If I wait here any longer I’m going to be late for my first day.

“Excuse me, hi; I’m here for the new assistant job….Mr. Justin Timberlake’s assistant?”

As if on cue, Sharron looks up at me wide-eyed. I’m assuming that’s her name since she voiced it when answering the phone.

“Yes sir, let me have him call you back on that…thank you and have a good day.” Placing the receiver down, she ignores the other incoming calls before standing to face me, her blue eyes deep and taunting as she gives me a once over.

“You’re Justin’s new assistant?” She spits cattily and I feel my defenses go up.

“Yes.” I reply firmly while clutching my bag tightly.

“Oh, this should be good.” She snickers before flipping her blonde hair out of her face. Damn, she’s skinny and pretty in her fitted skirt and blouse. I guess outward appearances are really everything in this business. “Follow me.” She instructs while leaving her desk to strut down the bright white hallway.

I quickly pick up my pace to follow her, almost slamming into her when she comes to a complete stop suddenly at a large glass window. Gazing over her shoulder, I take a peek through the glass realizing that there’s a boardroom of some sort in there with a handful of people sitting around the large, vanished wooden table in what appears to be a meeting. This must be the meeting Justin is in.

“Your boss is right in there.” She states while pointing. “Your desk is further up the hall outside of his office. You can’t miss it. I suggest you get settled in while he’s still in that meeting because your day’s going to get crazy when he’s done. Good luck. Oh and…” Drifting she eyes me with a light frown. “Cute beige pant suit. It matches the caramel brown tone of your skin.” Sharron forces a fake smile unto her face before turning up her nose and walking away to return to her post.

I would have said thanks for the compliment, but somehow, I don’t think she meant it.

Great, now I’m left alone with no way of knowing what I should really be doing. Sean may have briefed me on all the dos and don’ts of the fashion world, but he never told me how to handle first days in a completely foreign environment with people who were shallow, self-centered and conceited.

 

*****

Later

 

So I found my desk like Sharron said I would and I’ve actually unpacked some of the stuff I brought with me to make it more personal. No one has even acknowledged me since I’ve been here. They all just stare at me and pass me straight, moving along their way. I feel so out of place here. But, my surroundings are nice.

I have a perfect view from the large glass windows of Manhattan; my desk is spacious and white just like the rest of this building. My computer has a wide flat-screen monitor and my chair is cushiony with wheels. Yeah, this is definitely the life…the life of an assistant. I wonder what type of work I’m going to be doing.

There’s no phone on my desk as of yet since I just started today and I haven’t actually met my boss yet to find out if I still have this job, so I’ve just been sitting here, casually surfing the net. I’m surprised no one asked who I am.

I mean, is it that easy for some random stranger to be in my position right now? I don’t think so. Maybe they figured out I’m the new assistant. I’m sure Sharron must have told at least someone.

“If you’re waiting to see me, I don’t suggest you sit at my assistant’s desk. There are waiting chairs just over there…”

My thoughts are interrupted when a male figure strolls by me dressed in a long-sleeved blue shirt, a matching tie, black pants and leather shoes.

“Oh uh actually…” But I drift when I notice that he hasn’t once stopped to look up and actually acknowledge me.

He’s holding a book of some sort and flipping through the pages with a frown on his face.

Studying him intently I smirk despite myself.

It’s Justin. Or I should maybe say, my new boss Mr. Timberlake.

“I didn’t approve this advert of Omega watches in next month’s issue. Our cover celebrity is going to be wearing Movado; they were supposed to get that slot. Is Robert intentionally trying to sabotage me? Shit…”

He’s completely lost in what he’s doing.  He’s totally forgotten I’m even here.

Clearing my throat loudly when I see him getting ready to enter his office, he suddenly stops with his back facing me. Expelling a heavy sigh, he twists around to greet me but his greeting falls short. Almost immediately, recognition registers on his face and something else I can’t distinguish. He opens his mouth to speak but nothing comes out as he continues to glare at me with wide protruding eyes.

This educes a rather large smile from me as I stand from my seating position before moving over to greet him and introduce myself.

“Hi, uh, Mr. Timberlake, I’m Tai, Tai Bennett your new assistant.” I beam while extending my hand for him to take which he totally ignores because he’s still just standing there, practically frozen in place, glowering.

Finally regaining his composure he chuckles lightly, shaking his head in the process. “This is a joke. One of my employees put you up to this right? You know with the encounter we had last week and now you’re here and….” But he trails off when I begin eyeing him strangely. Gosh this is fun. “You’re…you’re not kidding are you?” he drawls and I shake my head ‘no.’ “So, you’re my new assistant.” He says again for confirmation and I shake my head ‘yes.’ “Would you…would you give me a minute, just…just one minute.” He mutters before quickly disappearing into his office and slamming the door shut behind him.

Swaying back and forth on my heels patiently, I gaze through the glass wall of his office that allows me to see in since he has the blinds open. I notice that he drops the book he was reading on his desk before grabbing his office line and dialing a number.

I’m not sure what’s going on in there, but I’m pretty sure he’s yelling to whoever is on the other end of that line because he’s clearly worked up, his free hand is flailing and his face is turning a bright shade of pink.

When he locks eyes with me, a large scowl forms on his face then he mutters something else on the line and hangs up.

Exiting his office, Justin gives me a hard stare then grips my wrist to pull me in the direction he’s going. “Come with me.” He instructs and I do just that, quietly.

I’m contemplating on apologizing for last week’s event because I really need this job, but I have no idea what’s happening now so I’ll wait to see what’s really going on.

Mutely, I follow him down the spacious white marbled hallway until we get to a section on the floor with two large wooden crafted doors.

Gripping the handles tightly, Justin swings the doors open without knocking first. He casually strolls into the room, instructing me to do the same and shut the doors behind me. When I finally catch up to him, I gasp in awe at the lavish office with leather chairs, plush rugs, green plants in every corner as well as a surround sound entertainment center and a dark mahogany vanished desk with a matching leather chair.

Oh my gosh, this is Randall Timberlake’s III office. I mean, gosh, he’s sitting at his desk right now talking to another guy and Justin rudely barged in on their conversation.

I don’t want to be here right now.

“Dad, we have to talk.” Justin begins boldly in an aggravated tone.

“Ah Justin, I see you’ve met your new assistant. It’s a pleasure to meet you Miss Bennett.” Randall greets me and I blush massively. Even with age he’s a striking man. And he looks very sharp in his tailored suit.

“Hi sir.” I say quietly and he smiles at me.

“She’s not my assistant.” Justin snaps and I cringe from the harshness in his tone. “This is not what we agreed to dad.”

“But she is your assistant Justin and if you want to keep this job and all the perks you receive from carrying the Timberlake name, you’ll learn to cope. You can’t fire her.” His father replies firmly.

“That’s bullshit dad! I get that my last few assistants weren’t all that bright…and I understood when you said you were firing my last assistant because of that media issue, but this? This is unfair dad.”

“That and they all ended up being romantic interests…which might I add affected your performance at this company because your head was elsewhere…I’ll not elaborate now but you know what I mean Justin. You picked your assistants on personal preference, not on their skills or qualifications. Just be happy I didn’t hire a man to do this job.” His father voices causing Justin to clear his throat uneasily.

“That’s beside the point. I should have picked my assistant myself. How are you so sure I’ll be able to work with…with her?” He asks while pointing towards me and I bite my lips to refrain from voicing my thoughts.

“You’ll just have to find a way. Miss Bennett has the credentials a good assistant to the editor in chief needs. I’m sure you all can work something out.”

“Damn it dad!” Justin whines. I’m sure he knows that there’s no winning with his father but I can’t hide the fact that I’m slightly hurt that he’s so  comfortable with openly voicing his distaste for me. “She’s not even A-List material.”

“Well Justin, her resume says she is. I’ve taught you better than to judge people only by their outer appearances. Not that miss Bennett wouldn’t fit the bar because she’s beautiful.” Randall winks for me and I shrug, feeling exposed and discomfited.

“Oh I know dad, I know looks aren’t everything. That’s why I know she’s a bitch who’s going to make my life a living hell but whatever, that’s fine, it’s fine.” Justin raises his hands in defeat before turning around to glare at me. Giving me one last glance, he brushes past me to leave. “I’ll be in my office confirming next month’s issue if anyone needs me…but please don’t need me.” He adds in before making his dramatic exit, leaving me alone with his father and the other male in the room who’s yet to speak or even turn from where he’s sitting facing Mr. Timberlake.

“You’ll have to excuse my son…Tai is it?” Randall asks and I nod. “He’s going through some…things…a phase if you might call it. I apologize for his behavior. It was very unkempt and unprofessional of him.”

“It’s…it’s ok. I, I can understand why he’d be that way. We didn’t really meet on good terms.”

“Nonetheless, he’s part of the face of this company and his actions reflect highly on A-List magazine so please excuse him.”

“It’s, it’s fine sir.” I assure him and he nods in return.

“I think you’re just what we need, a level-headed, qualified assistant to whip my son into shape. Welcome to A-List magazine Tai. Don’t hesitate to come to me and let me know if Justin is giving you a hard time now ok?” Randall grins slyly and I force a smile, hoping he’ll dismiss me soon. My heart is pounding out of my chest from how nervous I’m feeling and my legs are completely paralyzed right now as I stand in the middle of his office like a deer caught in headlights.

“She’ll be fine dad; she’s a tough one I’m sure. Justin’s simply threatened that he won’t be able to get his way.” The other person finally decides to speak and his voice is so familiar…

“It won’t stop Justin from trying to break her.”

Wait what? Break me?

“Well you know J; he’s always up for a challenge.” The other male figure snickers and I frown, staring at the back of his head.

“Oh Tai, I’m sorry, this is my other son, Robert Pattinson. I don’t believe you two have met yet.” Randall states.

Slowly standing, I watch as Robert spins around to greet me with a smile on his face that only grows wider when his bluish-grays land on my browns. There’s recognition on his smooth ivory face as his eyes twinkle with delight.

Oh my god! It’s…it’s ‘Mr. Armani!’ No way! What are the odds? This must be fate’s way of playing a cruel joke on me.

“Well then, I believe we have met dad.” He voices before coming over to me to give me a firm handshake. “Haven’t we?” He says softly to me and I fight the blush that’s forming on my face as I stare up at him. Oh my gosh, Sean is going to flip when I tell him about my first day.

“Ah well that’s good. I’ll be sure to call you and Justin into my office when Siriano calls to confirm the new fashion line. But in the mean time you all are excused. I have some work to finish up.” Randall explains to Robert and Robert nods in understanding before we both excuse ourselves so we can leave.

I allow Robert to escort me out of his father’s office and when we’re finally standing in the hallway he turns to glare at me in wonderment.

“Well, Miss Bennett.” He begins. “Wonders never cease.”

“It’s Tai.” I add in and he grins, exposing his pearly whites to me.

“Tai.” He echoes and I nod casually. “Well Tai, judging by how you stood up to me the night at the bar, I have no doubt that you’ll be able to handle my brother, but, if you ever need some backup, I’m willing to defend your honor if the price is right.” He sniggers and I roll my eyes at him.

“I can take care of myself but thanks.” I hum before turning around to leave. He chuckles heartily with a nod.

“I’ll see you around Tai; maybe we’ll have a ‘drink’ sometime. And thanks for literally knocking some sense into my brother the other day. I needed that laugh.” Robert calls out to my retreating form and I smile, ignoring the weird stares from the other employees nearby.

Not bothering to turn around, I wave him off and he laughs out one last time before I round the corner in search of my boss and possible duties if any. I’m sure Justin’s still pissed that I’m his new assistant but he’s just going to have to live with it and suck it up.

I know Justin told Robert about how I bumped into him but at least, Robert seems like the total opposite of him which is good. I could never survive two of his kind.

Finally making it back to my desk, I quietly slip into my seat, not missing the jerk of Justin’s head when he looks up at me from behind his desk in his office. I’m wondering if he ever closes those blinds or if I’m supposed to see through his office like that since I’m his assistant and all.

Well, whatever. He can’t give me the cold shoulder forever. He’s going to have to talk to me at some point if he wants to get any work done.

As I gaze at the picture I placed on my desk earlier of my brother and me, Justin’s door slowly opens before he emerges with a clipboard in hand.

Casually, he walks up to my desk, his tall frame hovering as he glares down at me intently.

“Look, if we’re going to do this, then you need to understand that you don’t converse with me unless it’s work related, understood?” He snaps and I shake my head.

“Good, and I expect you do whatever I request of you no matter how impossible or outlandish it might seem and don’t worry, that doesn’t include any personal favors or my personal errands outside the office like dry-cleaning or grocery shopping. I can do that myself.” He adds in.

“Got it.” I respond and he smirks.

“Right, well, I’m really swamped here so I’m going to need you to get some things done for me with various designers and partners we have right here in Manhattan. It’s just a few business errands. Nothing too big. I’ll ask Sharron at the front desk to send a company car for you. Try to finish this list by the end of the work day and report back to me with your progress. Oh and before you head out, get a cup of coffee for me will you? You’ll find what you need down in the cafeteria. Make it black, decaffeinated and with one spoon of sugar…thanks.” With that said he turns on his heels and disappears back into his office after dropping the clipboard he was previously holding in his hand on my desk.

As I gaze at it, my eyes grow wide with the list of addresses and tasks going down the first page.

“Oh my gosh.” I say shocked while reading over some of the tasks I have to do. “Pick up Gucci fragrance sample, book some Italian restaurant for a business meeting, confirm venue for magazine anniversary party…” And the list goes on.

Gripping the clipboard in hand, I stand on my feet then grab my bag getting ready to leave for possibly the rest of the day. Well, I asked for this. Even if my boss has issues with me, I’m sure he’ll warm up soon. Because damn it, I’ll be the best assistant he’s ever had, minus the sexual favors though, even if I can admit he’s a ‘total babe.’

 

 

*****

Hours Later

Bronx, New York

 

Getting into my apartment, I drop my bag and belongings by the door before rushing over to my couch to plop down.

I’m exhausted.

Justin had me running around Manhattan today doing errands, half of which could have been done over the phone. I realized that later when some of the clients said they were simply expecting phone calls.

Damn him.

I know Justin did this to me on purpose but I’m not going to give up. It’s going to take a lot more to get me out. I’m not going to quit if that’s what he’s trying to make me do because his head is permanently stuck up his ass.

I didn’t really get to meet anyone today since I was out most of the day but I’m hoping that by tomorrow, I’ll get to know the other employees I’m going to be dealing and working with on a regular basis.

I did make a spin in the cafeteria to grab Justin’s coffee earlier. The cafeteria is huge and has its own Starbucks corner. Plus, the food in there was totally healthy. I’m all for healthy, but with only vegetables, fruits and brand cereals being served, it’s no doubt that these people are lacking substance in their diet, not to mention the other essential food groups. I’m going to have to pack my lunches from now on or grab something outside of A-List magazine.

“There she is; Miss Assistant and future journalist.”

Sean comes out from around the corner wearing slacks and a wife beater to sit with me on our large beige couch. Our apartment is a two-bedroom and it isn’t huge, but it’s cozy and we like it.

“So how was your first day?” He asks. “You came in late so I’ll assume you still have your job.” He points out jokingly.

Yeah, no thanks to Justin. I’m starting to dislike that name for some reason.

Turning to stare at him tiredly, I shrug uncaringly before letting down my hair, allowing it to fall over my shoulders as I sigh from the release.

“It was…well to sum it up, my boss remembered me like you said he would. He totally shunned me and tried to run me out by pushing me to quit on my first day. His dad is kind of cool, not really sure. Oh and get this… ‘Mr. Armani’ is actually Robert Pattinson Timberlake, Justin’s brother and the other heir to the A-List fortune. Coincidence? I don’t know, but all in all my day was total hell. Still, no pain no gain. Oh and the receptionist Sharron, well, she’s just a ray of sunshine. So how was your day?” Gazing at Sean, I watch how he’s trying to stifle his laughter but fails miserably.

“Ok, to hell with my day girl. It was boring compared to yours.” He begins. “But, don’t worry, Justin will come around one way or the other. He has daddy to please don’t forget. I’m sure he doesn’t want to be cut out of the will now. And your little ‘drink escapade’ was with Rob? Hot! Sweetie, I don’t care what you say, but I believe that was no coincidence. I will, however, say it was possibly fate, maybe destiny?” Sean suggests with a flick of his wrist and I grimace.

I really hope not. Because if this is my destiny, I only see hard times ahead, especially having to deal with Justin, one of New York’s most eligible bachelors as stated by Forbes magazine which I picked up on one of my runs today, who also happens to be one of New York’s biggest assholes to date in my book.