Tangled and Twisted ✓

Chapter 13

[Jenny Lesko]

"How are things going, Jenny?" For the first time in ages, Aunt Kathy has shown up on her own. Without Uncle James' overbearing presence, she sounds more humane, more understanding. He has a stronger personality and influence, after all; this aspect affects the perception of the people around him.

I immediately mention the good news. "Aunt, I've got a promotion. Now, I'm the Chief Editor. That means, one step closer to... you know what." I care about taking over a lot. Not only it'd put me in a position of prestige; it'd also be a way for me to prove myself right—and Uncle wrong.

"Good, because you know the terms and conditions of the will. Do I have to remind you what entails if you don't complete your taks by the end of the month?" Her voice is stern, but not ice cold like Uncle's. I nod resolutely, but don't answer her question. She knows what it means, and I want to save her the hassle of having to mention that man.

On another note, I offer her a cup of tea and some handmade cookies. She asks, "Did you make these yourself? If so, I'm impressed." I've brushed up some hobbies of mine lately to ease the tension. From baking to drawing, and even writing. But the latter, I want it to still be a secret. I'm not ready to show anyone my drafts.

After tasting—better said, devouring—four cookies, Aunt Kathy has nothing but praise for them. "They're excellent. Seriously. Will you share the recipe with me?" I shake my head. That's supposed to be a secret, too. "Oh, you're too afraid to share, aren't you? That's understandable. However, next time I come around, I expect you to serve them again, okay?"

I agree. Happy that this visit has gone on smoothly, with no mention of "whom I shall not name," I send Aunt off. As I wave her goodbye, she reminds me not only of the promise to serve again those cookies, but also of the will. Time's ticking and I can't afford to waste any more.

It may sound strange coming from me, but I really look forward to going back to work tomorrow.

***

Getting projects officially approved or rejected is the favorite part of my current role. Plus, I can get the authors I'm interested in published if I play my cards right. It's no secret that everyone has favorites here, so why shouldn't I?

Dale never leaves his eyes off me, but I don't care. I can't give in to the pressure. If I want to prove I'm more than worthy to be here, he can't scare me. He can't forbid me to get Adam Hersey published. He's talented as fuck and deserves far more recognition than some authors here who only get their works out because of Hollister.

Fortunately, he doesn't interfere with my plan to have all of Adam's works prepared for publishing, even his poetry. I don't know him in person, but, one day, I'd love to meet him and discuss promotion strategies, perks of being an author, and much more.

I could also use my rising influence to get my own works published. I have a couple of drafts ready; I need to polish them, or, better, have someone check over them to see if there aren't any glaring grammar or structure mistakes.

I work at a steady pace as usual, impressing Hames and—guess what—even Dale. On the other hand, Hollister still side eyes me. I ignore her, knowing that she'll expose herself for her arrogance and unwillingness to change her attitude and mindset.

Before I can realize, my shift is over. Hollister, who seems to have understood why I'm pushing myself so hard, insists on sending me off. She clearly feels threatened by my new position. She doesn't like the idea of losing to someone like me.

She has to get used to it, one way or another. I don't plan to give up, especially at this stage.

***

I've never heard of Coffee Galore and, if it weren't for Beth, I would've never noticed it. Its only downside is that it's too close to Hames Hollister Corp, which means that its CEOs might pass by. But it's not time to think of those two.

My friends bomb me with new drink suggestions, which makes choosing harder for me. With so many flavors to try, how could I pick only one? They really want to see me struggle.

At the end, I decide to just follow my gut and pick the same as them, the Mint Choco Latte. It can't be that bad, really? Someone thinks it tastes exactly like toothpaste; others love the unusual combination. If both Bella and Beth chose it, too, it means they might enjoy it.

It turns out the drink isn't bad; it's sweet and refreshing, a combination I'd never expect it'd work. Bella seems to agree with me as she craves for a second serving; on the other hand, Beth is more skeptical.

"Hmm... I'm not sure I made the right choice, after all. It's like someone added toothpaste to hot cocoa. I don't know... Maybe I should have another sip." She gulps as she tries to force the drink in her throat, only to give up after two hot minutes.

Bella states, "Beth, I don't think mint choco is for you. You should try something else." Beth agrees and decides to switch her order to a Pumpkin Cinnamon Latte. As she waits for her new drink, she adjusts her glasses and turns around.

The café is slowly emptying as customers leave, one by one. By the time we're out of here, there might be no-one else apart from the staff. There's no sign of other people coming in either. The vibrant atmosphere turns quiet and mellow, exactly as I prefer.

Bella picks her phone from her purse to check the time. "It's past 6pm, girls. I think we should go. How about we hang out somewhere else and then find a nice place for dinner?" She suggests, which sounds tempting. I'd love to eat out now, but I'm not sure of what to choose.

Beth hesitates. "Hmm... Let me check if I have something to do at home..." I elbow her as a way to persuade her to stay with us. I don't know what matters she has to sort out at home, but she can't miss out on an opportunity to finally hang out together in a non work related situation.

She admits defeat and sighs. "Fine, I'll come with you. I mean, I don't have much to do at home." Even though that sounds like an excuse to me, I don't make it clear. We all finish our drinks and head to the counter to pay for our orders. As I extract my credit card, someone pokes my shoulder from behind.

I ignore them at first and proceed with payment. When I'm done, I feel the same person poking me. This time, I turn and, to my shock, find Alex. What the heck is he doing here? Even my friends are surprised. Isn't it too late for him to have a latte?

He addresses only me, which means it must be something personal. "Jenny, I have an important announcement to make." He, however, notices that Beth and Bella are still here, and retracts. "Okay, never mind. I guess we'll talk later. How about 11pm? At my place?"

I accept the offer, to the bewilderment of my friends. I think they already know there's something between me and Alex, and want it to be official. I'd love it, too, but I can't rush it too much or I'll ruin everything.

I leave him hanging for now, and follow Beth and Bella out of the coffee shop.