• A Blackbird's Serenade • (GxG)

"Midnight Symphonies"

Journee

Walking up the steps to the enormous building at the heart of the city, I drew out a nervous breath while rubbing my clammed hands on my tailored pants. 'I understand your fears and doubts, but as soon as you walk in that building you leave that at the door, you hear me?' Remembering those words, I took a final deep breath before arriving at the double doors and letting myself inside.

Today's Sunday, and it's my first meeting with Atlantic Records to go over the details of my deal.

James wanted to come with me but I insisted I go alone, which he wasn't at all happy about. But I no longer wanted him making decisions for a career that's mine. I didn't want anyone speaking on my behalf, and I no longer trusted him to do that for me anymore. So, today I'm on my own. And honestly, it's rather refreshing.

Dressed in a thin-striped navy blue set of pants and a tailored vest, I wore a white turtleneck underneath the vest and cherry red pumps on my feet. Over the top of that was a thick tan trench coat, while my hair was slicked back into a voluminous ponytail. Then the gold pendant and gold hoop earrings I wore brought a highlight to my face and simple makeup.

Everything around me had my eyes filled with aspiration and wonder as I made my way to the instructed floor. Ms. Chase said the meeting would be held on the sixth story and in the biggest room on the floor.

Riding up the elevator, I drew another deep breath as it ascended, then pulled my shoulders back with the lift of my chin just before it dinged. My expression became pleasant yet neutral as I stepped out, observing my surroundings. And as I looked around for the room she described, a voice from a large desk stopped me.

"Oh excuse me, Miss?" I turned to the white woman sitting behind it, and offered a grin as she smiled. "How can I help you? Do you have an appointment?"

"Yes, my name is Journee Rose," I walked closer to the desk. "I'm meeting with Victoria Chase, I was told to be here at 9am-"

"Ohh you're one of the new artistss," she perked up, flashing a wide smile as I nodded. "It's just this was way-" she pointed around to desk, to her right. "Last door on your left darlin.'"

"Thank you," I nodded with a grin, then paused before walking away. "I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name sweetheart-"

"Oh it's Melissa," she smiled again, and I mentally chuckled at her bubbly persona. "Melissa O'Ryan, I'm an assistant secretary here."

"It's a pleasure to meet you Melissa."

"Pleasure's all mine Ms. Rose. Best of luck to you, Ms. Chase should be arriving at any moment, she's probably getting coffee."

"She don't have an assistant for that?" I asked out of curiosity, and Melissa shrugged.

"She likes to get it herself. The woman is rather picky." I chuckled while making my way around the corner.

"Good to know, see you Melissa," I waved.

Then as she called out a farewell, I soon arrived at the room. Along the wall was the decoration of other artists, both male and female. Some of the most famous records of all time were on this wall, along with the most popular artists. It was all so inspiring, it was almost overwhelming that I was even here.

Once opening the door, I was taken aback by there being other women already here. Two were sistas and the other two were white. Sitting at the large oval table, all four spun around with expecting grins as I glanced around.

"You must be mystery woman number five," one of the sistas stood with a chuckle and extended her hand. "Hi, I'm Tina."

"Journee," I nodded, unable to help smiling at her smile. She seems so genuine, I love that.