Perhaps most importantly, I watched and waited. I saw the actions of others and realized how untrustworthy they were. At best, so-called friends take advantage of you. At worst, they covet what’s rightfully yours until they can take it for themselves.
Just ask my stepmother.
And yes, I totally think I’m better than them because I’m not pretending to be anyone’s friend, and when I pick a target, you better believe they deserve it.
My case in point: Natasha Redding.
Deep down, I know what I’m doing is wrong, that Toxic wouldn’t want this, but if you come for someone I care about, you’d better be prepared.
And make no mistake, I care deeply for Toxic.
Natasha will pay for how she’s treated him, and it will be by my hand.
She’ll know it, too.
My phone lights with a message from Carl.
Carl:My office. Now.
To others, his bluntness is unnerving, though I don’t see why it should be. He’s a man who knows what he wants and doesn’t care for unnecessary words.
Sliding out of the bunk, I make my way upstairs to freshen up and notice Jacek in a booth with Clint. They both wave to me.
Sweet, sweet progress.
I’m not surprised when I find Vanessa seated across from Carl in his office. He’s excited by what I’ve promised for his show, and he’s eager to get the ball rolling. Especially since I’ll only be here for a few more days.
Vanessa makes no attempt to appear cordial, but that’s okay.
I love a challenge.
Vanessa leans forward, gesturing to me. “I did nothing, so whatever she’s said is a lie.”
“Don’t go getting your stupid panties in a twist,” I say sweetly. “I didn’t tattle on you for being cunty to me.”
A dumbfounded look washes over Carl’s typically austere face, but he says nothing.
Vanessa’s brow furrows. “Then why am I here?”
“Samantha has an idea she’d like to run by you,” Carl says.
“An idea?” Vanessa sneers, looking askance at me.
Manufacturing my best boss bitch smile, I turn to Vanessa and ask, “Do you know what I do for a living?”
“Ruin people’s lives?”
Laughing, I reply, “Actually, I do the exact opposite. I sculpt people’s lives into what they want them to be.”
“I’m sorry. Were you under the impression that people desired to live in a Shakespearian tragedy?”
“You’re witty—which is good, because it’s going to take you far with what I have planned for you.”
Her nose scrunches in disgust. “With whatyouhave planned for me?”
“Let me tell you what I do: I’m a publicist. I generate and manage publicity for my celebrity clients. Currently, I’m working with Carl to give Hunks The Show a little boost, and a big part of my plan includes you.”
She blinks back at me like I’m speaking gibberish.
