CYNTHIA CAME DOWNSTAIRS dressed and ready for work then turned to Blake and Samuel in the kitchen. “I was wondering. How are we going to get past the crowd?”
Before either could answer, someone began knocking on the door and ringing the bell at the same time. She raised an eyebrow. Angrily she started down the steps leading to the front door. Since it seemed neither of the idiots in the room knew how to get rid of people, she might as well try. Just like before, Samuel stopped her and carried her back to the first-floor landing.
“Stay away from the door,” Samuel growled.
“Then answer it and make them go away.”
Samuel went back down the steps and jerked the door open.
Oh hell, Samuel thought, the crowd outside the door had grown. In the mix, there was a petite blonde woman standing in the front. “I understand Blake Thornton is here.”
“And?” Samuel asked his arms folded.
The woman’s vision traveled upward, “How tall are you?” She asked with a frown.
“Tall enough.”
“That’s an understatement. I’m expected,” she stated and attempted to walk by him.
“And you are?” he asked as he blocked her passage.
She stepped back in frustration and sighed, “Shannon P, Blake Thornton’s publicist.”
Cameras began to flash and questions were being asked. “Come with me,” he said.
Cynthia was still on the first-floor landing, “Who are you?”
“I’m looking for Blake Thornton. Is he here?”
“Yes he is and you are?” Cynthia replied with the attitude of a true big sister.
“Shannon P., his publicist. And you?” The blonde asked with just as much dignified attitude.
Seeing trouble brewing Samuel stepped to the side, “I’m going to make a few calls about your visitors outside.”
Cynthia nodded her head, turned her attention back to the blonde, she placed her hands on her hips, “Cynthia T, the sister.”
“Oh, so you’re the one causing all of this,” Shannon said and walked by. “Where is he?”
“Upstairs in the kitchen.” How in the hell is someone that small going to handle the media, Cynthia thought as she began walking in the direction, but then another knock sounded against the door. Cynthia stopped mid-step and turn back to answer the door. Before she reached the door, the telephone rang. She looked at the clock on the wall, it was not even eight o’clock yet on Monday morning. To say her morning was not going well would be an understatement. Who would be calling? For that matter who would be knocking at her door. Picking up the cordless phone she looked at the caller id, it was LaVere’ calling. Watching Samuel at the door, he stepped to the side to allow Magna Riviera, one of the agents that worked with Brian in. She pointed towards the kitchen as Magna did a motion for coffee.
Walking into the living room to hear better, she listened as LaVere’ told her to expect the press to show up. “I think you are a little late. They are already here.” She replied. He hung up stating he would be there within the hour.
Cynthia hung up the phone and dialed Roz’s number thinking this was not what she had in mind for her renewed life. "Roz, I have a situation over here. I need you to come by before going to the office." Without a question, Roz agreed. Now if the rest of her day would cooperate, she might live through it. She took a deep breath and walked into the kitchen.
Magna, whom she knew rather well, was leaning against the counter drinking a cup of coffee. Shannon, whom she did not know at all, was sitting in her chair eating her breakfast. “I need some caffeine. Do you have any real coffee in this house?”
“I do,” Cynthia said placing her arms across her chest.
“Well, would you mind fixing some, this is not going to do,” Shannon pushed the cup on the table.
Cynthia and Magna looked at each other. Magna began to laugh as did Blake. Cynthia walked over to the cabinet, took out a can of coffee, and slammed in on the table in front of Shannon. “You can fix it your damn self.”
“Whoa, Whoa, chill out girl,” she picked up the cup, walked over to the counter, and began to pour the other coffee out. “Whatever happened to southern hospitality, this is Virginia isn’t it?”
“It doesn’t start until you hit Richmond, which is about five minutes south,” Cynthia replied. She turned to look at Blake, who was failing miserably at concealing his laugh. “Who in the hell is this?”
“She’s my publicist,” he laughed.
“I already introduced myself to you at the door, don’t you remember girl? I’m also the one that is going to save your ass from this mess.”
“I don’t know what mess you are referring to, but, LaVere’ is on his way over. I’m sure he can handle it.”
“Good, I have a few things to say to him.” She retook her seat at the table. “He’s lived this all his life; he knew better than to take you to New York. I don’t care how discrete it was, that city literally never sleeps. The media is 24/7, you can’t hide there. Here, is a totally different story. That’s why Blake was able to be here for this long without too much invasion. It’s because of you that I have to be here. So like it or not you are going to deal with me.”
Magna decided it was time for her to save the woman from whatever Cynthia was about to say. She extended her hand, “I’m Magna. I will be handling security on Blake for the remainder of his stay here.”
“What exactly do you think you are going to do against that mob outside? Shoot them, it doesn’t work. I’ve tried.” She looked from Magna to Cynthia, “You two don’t understand the media. They will eat both of you alive.”
“If they are that bad, what makes you think you can handle them?” Cynthia asked.
“Because I can play just as dirty as any one of them, probably ten times better. The only stories and pictures that hit on your brother are the ones I plant. When one gets by me, the photographer and the rag that sells it pays and they pay dearly. Don’t let this petite body and blonde hair fool you.”
Cynthia stepped up, placed her hands on her hips, and towered over the short woman. “Don’t you let this little Virginia girl fool you? The media here knows me, not you. Your LA ways will not work here.”
Shannon stood and took the same stance. “You don’t get it. It’s not the media in Virginia you have to be concerned with. You are going out with a Prince. Not the Governor or the Attorney General of Virginia—a Prince. We are going to be dealing with the international media as well as the government. Therefore, missy, you need to take your fangs out of me and save them because you are going to need them,” she took a step back. “Now, where is your lavatory?” Cynthia stared at her for a minute startled, did everybody know her business. “Bathroom girl bathroom.” Cynthia pointed down the hallway. “Thank you. While I’m gone, call your mother. I have a feeling she is behind all of this.”
Magna looked at Cynthia, “Do you want me to shoot her? I do have two guns.”
Blake laughed, “Please don’t. I depend heavily on her. She is good and she can handle what is about to happen. Let her do her job, you will reap the rewards.”
“Okay, I won’t shoot her, for now.” She looked at Cynthia, “but, you tell me when and I will shoot her.”
Cynthia laughed, “I know you will. But at the moment I have enough to deal with and don’t’ want to add a murder charge.” She exhaled, “Do you think mother did this?”
“Yep,” Blake replied as he stood, “I’m going to take a shower. We will probably be in front of the cameras soon. Oh, you may want to think about staying at the house until things die down. At least there’s a gate to protect you.”
Cynthia slumped down into the chair. “Magna how bad is it out there?”
Magna sat across from her, “Too many for Samuel to handle alone. Brian is bringing backup. I’m covering Blake until his body man arrives. Is Prince Ashro bringing anyone with him?”
“He usually travels with Edmond his body man and Jamal his secretary.”
“You might want to give Pearl Lassiter a call. The Prince has his secretary to act on his behalf. Blake has Shannon. You are going to need someone to act in your best interest.”
“Is all of this really necessary? Once they see Blake the crowd will disappear, won’t they.”
“Blake being here is the least of our concerns. You’re dating a Prince. Any incident could have international implications.”
“I’ll call Ashley to see who she suggests.”
“Cynthia!” A yell came from the front and was followed by a slammed door. Rosaline appeared in the kitchen. “What in the hell is going on? The street is covered with people with cameras, not to mention all those damn trucks.
“That’s just the beast. I’ll have them cleared out as soon as LaVere’ and his entourage gets here.” Shannon stated as she looked at Cynthia. “Don’t you think you need to get dressed? And have you called your mother yet?”
“I am dressed and no I have not called her.”
“Don’t tell me you are scared of her too. Never mind, I’ll handle Sofia, you need to change. You cannot appear with LaVere’ dressed like you are going to work.”
“She is supposed to be going to work,” Rosaline said, still unclear what was happening.
Cynthia stood and turned Rosaline in the direction of her bedroom. “You come with me. I will explain everything.” She turned back to Magna, “Would you call Ashley. Find out what you can and let me know how to proceed.” She turned to say something to Shannon, but she was on her telephone. Not taking her eyes off the woman Cynthia whispered to Magna, “If she makes a wrong move, shoot her.”
Twenty minutes later Cynthia and Rosaline emerged from her bedroom. The first person Rosaline saw was the one person she wanted to avoid, Sofia Thornton. The woman had a way of belittling everyone and everything that crossed her path. Rosaline could handle it but what she could not tolerate was the way the woman ignored her own daughter, then had the nerve to tell other people how to live their lives. Rosaline ducked towards the front door but did not make it out in time. “Rosaline, are you leaving this house without saying hello?”
“I was trying to.” She whispered between clenched teeth. “Hello, Mrs. Thornton.”
“Isn’t it exciting news about my Cynthia and the Prince?”
“Your Cynthia? Oh--now that you think she is involved with a prince you can own her. I don’t remember her being your Cynthia when you left her here to fend for herself.”
Cynthia stepped between the two women. “Roz, be sure to contact Mrs. Sutton regarding Friday afternoon.”
Rosaline nodded understanding Cynthia did not want a confrontation. “I’ll take care of it.”
“Rosaline before you leave, have they begun deportation on your husband yet?” Sofia questioned.
“That’s enough,” Cynthia shouted. “Roz, go. I will talk to you later. Rosaline rolled her eyes at the woman and walked out the door. “Mother, you have caused enough damage here.”
“Well, he only married her to get into this country. Besides, I’m only here to help you.”
“Sofia, you never help anyone unless something is in it for you.” Shannon stated, “So tell me, what is it this time? You have more money than the average person. Jackson has emerged as one of the best producers out. Blake is at the top of the A list. So what could it be?”
“You need to be careful how you speak to me. Your position with Blake is not completely secure,” Sofia replied.
“That’s where you are wrong. We have a new contract. It was signed last week before he came here. And if it wasn’t, it wouldn’t matter much because he still will not allow you to handle his affairs any longer. So deal with it.”
Hearing enough Cynthia stepped in. “I don’t know what’s up with you two, but you will not use this situation to hash it out. The door opened and Cynthia was surprised to see Pearl Lassiter walked through. “It’s a good thing I have a large home,” she murmured. “What are you doing here? Is JD or Tracy coming here?”
“Good morning everyone,” Pearl smiled and then turned to Cynthia. “Ashley called Tracy and you know how it goes. Tracy called me and here I am. Samuel seemed relieved to see me and literally pushed me through the door.” She put her portfolio on the table as Cynthia made the introductions. “It’s nice to meet you all,” Pearl said and then turned back to Cynthia. “Is there some place we could speak in private?”
“Another Lassiter," Sofia sighed. "I guess it's to be expected. Your mother was breeding like a bitch in heat. Well, we are all in this together, no need for privacy at this point,” Sofia stated.
Shannon rolled her eyes, “I don’t like the idea, but I do agree with Sofia. When we address the media—we really should be on one accord.”
A small smile creased Pearl’s face as she looked at Sofia. “Don't ever mention my mother and bitch in the same sentence again. If you do, I will demonstrate the true meaning of the word bitch.” She turned to Shannon, “Your interest here, if I understand things correctly, is what’s best for Blake.” She looked at Sofia, “I have no honest idea what your interest may be. My interest is what is best for Cynthia. Once we have spoken and I am clear what her interests are, then and only then will we all be on one accord.” She turned, “Cynthia, if you will lead the way.”
Inwardly Cynthia smiled—finally someone is looking out for her, “This way.” They walked up the stairs to her office. “Please, have a seat Pearl,” she pointed to the chair and closed the door. “Thank you for coming.”
“Cynthia, I feel it is important for you to know, I am not here for you per se. I am here because Tracy considers you a friend and loves you dearly. I’m not too fond of you as I’m sure you realize. With that said, I want you to know that nothing you and I discuss will be mentioned outside this door unless you wish it to be. I will ensure you are represented in the manner you wish. Knowing why I am here, do you want me to represent you?”
Taken back a minute by Pearl’s bluntness Cynthia shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t see where I have a choice. I have no idea how to deal with all of this. Yes, I need you to represent me.”
“Very well then, let’s have a seat. Tell me how you want to proceed. Do you want the media around or not?
“Not like this.” The women talked until Pearl had enough to properly represent Cynthia.
As the two walked down the hallway, LaVere’ was walking up the steps. He walked over to Cynthia, kissed her gently, and hugged her. “Please forgive me for this. I thought I had covered my bases in New York.”
“There is no way you could have foreseen my mother’s actions.”
“Your mother? What does she have to do with all of this?”
“She took it upon herself to contact the media on her daughter’s behalf,” Shannon stated from the kitchen. “Hello Prince Ashro’,” Shannon extended her hand, “I’m Shannon Payne, I represent Blake Thornton.” LaVere’ smiled and shook her hand.
Cynthia turned to Pearl, “LaVere’, this is Pearl Lassiter. She is representing me in all of this.”
“Ms. Lassiter, thank you for being here for her. Please make sure her personal interest is taken into account before any other issue.”
Pearl bowed, “I will do my best, your highness.”
“It’s LaVere’ and the pageantries are not necessary.”
“Is Brian Thompson here yet? I hope you don’t mind I requested protection for you until this situation is under control.”
“Thank you, that was thoughtful. Samuel Lassiter was already on site. I'll fill you in on that later and Magna Rivera arrived earlier,” Cynthia took his hand and walked into the living room. “LaVere’, this is my mother Sofia Thornton and the cause of most of what you see.”
LaVere’ smiled and shook her hand. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Thornton. I would have preferred different circumstances.”
“LaVere’,” she smiled, “the pleasure is mine and may I say, your pictures do you no justice at all. You are a very handsome man. I can see why Cynthia is so taken with you.”
“Thank you, but there will be plenty of time for you and me to get to know one another. At this moment my only interest is to get Cynthia out of this situation.” He turned to Pearl. “Ms. Lassiter, this is my secretary Jamal. Would you two prepare a statement for the press?
“I’ll join them,” Shannon offered.
Jamal, who was standing off to the side taking notes immediately stepped forward, “Perhaps, a brief statement only indicating the two are friends and nothing more.”
“Well that’s a start,” Pearl said as the two walked off into the kitchen.
LaVere’ turned to Cynthia. “This will be over by noon. That’s my promise to you. Where’s Blake?” he asked looking around. “I need to apologize to him. I know he came here for solitude.”
“He’s on a conference call with a director, but no apology is needed, at least not to Blake. This is a bit much on top of everything else," Cynthia just shook her head. "I am so sorry about all of this."
Within the hour the news conference was scheduled at the Omni Hotel on Cary Street in Shockoe Bottom, downtown Richmond. To the media’s delight and Cynthia’s surprise, the support in the room was a who’s who. JD and Tracy Harrison, James and Ashley Brooks, Marco and Rosaline Marable were there for her. Of course, Blake, Jackson, and Sofia Thornton were there. At one point Shannon had to literally pull Sofia away from the press. The woman was exasperating, to say the least.
Moving the news conference here was a relief for the Security Team as well as Cynthia’s neighbors. Samuel made a mental note to speak with the guards at the front gate of the complex. There was no reasonable explanation of how the media was able to gather in front of her home. Earlier Brian and Samuel spoke privately with LaVere’ explaining the presence of security for Cynthia. If anything were to go astray it could have international repercussions. To their surprise, LaVere’ was very understanding and thanked Samuel for his service. To relieve some pressure off Brian’s team, he offered to provide security whenever Cynthia was with him.
Blake, LaVere’ and Cynthia stood center stage as Pearl read a brief statement. “Good afternoon everyone, I am Pearl Lassiter representative for Cynthia Thornton in this matter. I have a brief statement. Then you will hear from Prince Ashro and Shannon Pane, publicist for Blake Thornton. Prince LaVere’ Ashro of Emure and Ms. Cynthia Thornton met a little over a year ago and have recently been seeing each other privately. Presently neither is willing to discuss details with the media. As with any new relationship, the two would like the opportunity to spend time with each other and not the world. At this time Prince Ashro would like to make a statement.”
The moment Pearl stepped aside, the questions began. LaVere’ smiled, “As Ms. Lassiter stated, we are not ready to discuss our relationship with the public. In fact, I would like to make a request of you. You see, while I am used to the media, Cynthia is not. I am trying to convince her that being involved with me will be a wonderful adventure.” He pointed to the cameras and reporters, “Having a mob in front of her home was not such a good start. If you would give us breathing room, I promise the moment there is something to report; I will personally speak with each of you. All I request is a little time alone to get to know this very beautiful woman. Thank you all.” He returned to Cynthia’s side and kissed her on the cheek. The cameras began flashing.
Shannon stepped up. “Good afternoon. I’m the representative for Blake Thornton, Shannon Pane. Blake is home to visit his sister. He will be here for the remainder of the month and then will return to the set to complete the filming of his next picture. Blake would like to make a statement.”
Blake stepped up and flashed that million-dollar smile. Reporter’s clamored to get in position to take pictures. Graciously Blake accommodated them; it was the least he could do to take some of this pressure off his sister. “It is wonderful to be home. I’ve been so busy over the last few years, that I have not had time to spend with my family. Just like any other brother, I am here to make sure this man is good enough for my sister.” The crowd laughed. “So far, he’s alright. I know this seems like a story, but unless you give them time, you will not have anything to report. Give them a chance by allowing them just a little privacy. In the meantime, I will be around and I promise to give you plenty to write about.” With the crowd eating out his hands, he stepped back and stood next to his sister, then winked at her. Cameras flashed relentlessly at the threesome.
Pearl stepped back up to the podium. “Thank you, everyone,” she smiled at Blake. “This concludes the conference. Shannon Pane and I will be available for questions. And I believe Blake will remain for entertainment purposes only.”
Backstage while LaVere’ spoke to Brian, a beaming Sofia approached Cynthia, “I think that went well. The family unity would have been better with your father and me on stage too, but all’s well that ends well I suppose.”
“It certainly warms my heart that I could do something to please you. However, LaVere’ and I would be immensely happy if you would stay away from the media.”
“See, Cynthia Antoinette, that statement is the very reason I know you need me at this time. This is not the time to avoid the media. Just as they use you for profit, you can use them to build your popularity.”
“That’s just it mother, I don’t want the popularity—you do”
Smiling wickedly she looked at her daughter. “I do look forward to both of my beautiful children gracing the covers of magazines and newspapers across the country. If we do this right you will be Princess Cynthia before the year is out.” Jackson and Blake joined them with coats and gloves. “Thank you, darling,” Sofia smiled up at her husband. “Cynthia, I expect you and the Prince for dinner on Sunday. Come along dear, we have a lot to prepare for.”
Jackson kissed her cheek then followed his wife. Blake just stared, “She just doesn’t get it.”
Cynthia looked at him, “Get what?”
“Living in the public’s eye is not all it’s cracked up to be. All any normal person needs is a decent living and a person that loves them unconditionally. Everything else is just show.”
Reaching out she hugged her brother, “You’ve caught the brunt of her misplaced desire to be popular.”
“Dad more so than me.” He exhaled, “This life has its advantages. But there are other things in life that can give you just as much satisfaction.” He looked down at her, “Like the way a man looks at you when you’re not looking. Or the way you cause him to mumble under his breath because you simply drive him crazy.” The frown on her face made him wonder if she got his meaning.
“You want a man looking at you like that?” she frowned.
“Not me—you sis.” He laughed, “I see Samuel’s frustration, you can be a little dense.”
“Samuel?”