One Night Only

Thursday

After Burdine's tantrum of last afternoon, it was hard to know whether it was a good idea or not to go at that speed-dating. She hoped no potential lover would be scared of her, of her dominance and her altruism. She was one nervous wreck. At least, she was working today. Still, the ideas were weak, and the hours were running low. She had to send something for the end of the month. She got up to check what was left in her closet. Maybe an idea? There were some old pictures in a brown-yellowish book of her and the twins. Such sadness. Then, there were some old editions of her magazine, including one from 2005. It was a rough sketch of what Jade from Bratz Magazine wrote:

''This style for fall, rock from the '80. Accessorize any outfit with some leather boots and chains really can get it rockin'!''

Not bad, not bad at all. How about that box of old shoes she has. Some of them seemed to be from her great-great grandma. Not the best shape. There is a ridiculous amount of fake pearled tiaras in another box. Too bad these aren't worth anything except the confidence of wearing one. She got up from the dusty floor and knocked her head on one of the shelves.

A heavy red velvet box felt flat on the ground opening its content. She took the massive box and looked inside. There were a few things that were better left unsaid. First, scrapbooking from the '90. It was pink, fluffy and delicate as the details were so badly glued that it could fall apart at any time. She opened the vintage book and saw some old pictures from when she started Your Thing back in 1997. She was in her twenties. Times were alright. Her sister got to do so much she couldn't compare. Fashion police was fun and Elemina was an amazing friend while they were together. They would often crash at each other's place after and drink, talk about boys and even travel.

She tossed away the book as it brought back too many positive things. She saw next to her a letter.

''Court of New York city

November 7th 2006

For Burdine S. Maxwell,

Your request for court against Steel Corp. was rejected.''

This happened 13 times after. The court only let her speak ten years after and since then, it's been going on and off. She heard the phone from a distance. Her feet jumped like a cat as she ran towards it only for the ring to stop. Her grubby derriere sat on the chair next to the phone as she caught her breath.

It was quiet again. Her blue eyes shut close for a few minutes. Tuesday was on her mind. Why was she doing this?

It was so tempting to throw everything out and start a new life, one where she isn't tormented by the idea that she was a bad person. All of those years on bullying her teen neighbors or how many people were let down by her actions. Therapy wasn't enough, she wanted to die.

''Burdine?'' a soft voice said to her.

''AH!'' Burdine jumped on her chair terrified.

''Jade, you scared the living shit out of me, what do you want?''

''Well, I was wondering if you were still coming tomorrow night. It's at six and we are preparing the tables.''

''So, you guys are organizing this?''

''It's a last-minute thing.''

''I'll come, sure.'' Burdine was unsure now, however, the truth is, this couldn't hurt her to talk to someone.

''Perfect! I mean, nice! We will get you on the list.''

Jade left before Burdine could tell her goodbye. Burdine looked at her computer. One mail.

''motherofpink

Miss Maxwell,

My name is Christopher Morrison. I work as Mr. Byron Powell's manager and court defender for your case against him. He told me most of the information regarding what happened since I'm new in this investigation. My client explained to me he never meant to hurt you nor traumatize you for this matter and he would be open to discuss with you any help he could give.

My client desires to arrange a meeting with you November 2nd at 10 at his office on 428 Fifth Avenue. My presence is only required if you want to. Please contact me before the 10th of October via my email or phone number.

Christopher Morrison

Agent

212-368-1980

Christophermorrison ''

Burdine smirked before shutting down her laptop, noticing it was already 9 pm. Her hand stood on the top of her computer for a few minutes taking the time to realize what was happening.