Trust Me [Book 2]

Chapter 1: Pink Hair Promotions

Chapter 1 - [June 22nd]

"Ladies...ladies!" I clapped my hands, trying to regain attention in the rowdy room.

The young women of my empowerment group were engaged in a heated debate. Chris Brown vs. Trey Songz. While it was funny listening to them compare stats like YouTube views and tattoos, it was time to go.

"Sadly, our time together has ended. Please put up the art materials. You can finish your 'I Am' posters next time." The girls 'awwed' but did what I asked.

Young ladies from the nearby high schools gathered bi-weekly to discuss anything they wanted. My goal was to create a safe space that promoted sisterhood, education, and self-love. What began with a group of ten grew to a healthy group of forty.

Feeling a tap on my shoulder, I turned seeing Chelsea with a clipboard in hand and a very serious expression.

"Dr. Robinson would like to see you in her office before you leave for the day," she informed.

"Thank you Chels," I smiled. She rolled her eyes at me before turning to walk away. Chelsea was an amazing assistant but still had the same foul attitude at times. It was hard not to love Chelsea though- considering everything she'd been through.

After making sure the girls were packing up, I left our meeting room. It was actually a conference room that got renovated into a large sunroom when Dr. Robinson had the building re-done. She wanted the room to be an employee rest space but I had other plans. When I saw the electric shades come down to cover some of the windowpanes, I knew my girls and I had to have this spot.

Traveling down the long hallway, I glanced at my watch. 6:09pm. Damn, group went longer than I thought it would. Knocking twice, I waited until I heard the 'come in' before twisting the handle. She gestured for me to sit in the empty chair in front of her desk while speaking on the phone.

I sat down, crossing my legs and waiting patiently.

Okay, maybe not so patiently. I tapped my fingers against the armrest. Time wasn't on my side at the moment. Dr. Robinson narrowed her eyes in my direction when I cleared my throat.

"Sorry about that," she apologized, placing the phone on the receiver. I gave her a small smile. "I have some exciting news. As you know, the center has been doing very well lately." Her enthusiasm was nearly contagious. Nearly. I was running late.

"I'm planning on opening up another wellness center in a new location." Raising an eyebrow, I waved for her to continue. "Staffing for the new location isn't complete. I haven't even announced my plans. However, I am considering you for the position of Operations Manager. You would basically be second in command to the director but this position is still a promotion that would come with a hefty raise."

"Wow. Thank you."

"You deserve this, Elle. You've come so far and I'm proud of the progress you've made. There's a tiny condition..."

Sighing, my shoulders slumped a bit.

"I want you to be the best candidate for this position. And, even though you've taken a leadership role around here, your expertise is still nutrition."

"What are you saying?"

"You need some knowledge in business-"

"Wait­-"

"I'm not doubting your capabilities. Like I've said, you're doing a great job. But, someone with a business degree is going to have a solid foundation of basic concepts straight out the gate. You have experience but you don't have the business background."