In the high-stakes world of political campaigns, Troi has always been the steadfast force behind Jack Schlossberg's run for office. But when forces threaten to derail everything they've built, Troi and Jack must confront not only political chess gam...
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The deafening ring from my phone pulled me out of my sleep. God I really need to change that alarm.
I could see the sliver of the sun creeping from underneath the blackout curtains of my bedroom window. Getting those curtains was the best investment I ever made.
I grabbed my phone, squinting at the bright screen I forgot to lower before heading to bed. Jack's name flashed on the screen, reminding me of the events of yesterday. My feelings instantly began to cloud my impression of him. Seeing him in this different light sent a wave of conflicted emotions.
However, him calling me this early must seriously be urgent.
Jack spoke, his voice sounding upset and weirdly urgent as he was usually so well composed, "Morning Troi, listen- I really need you to come down to the office as soon as possible." He paused and I heard a huge sigh through the call. "We've got a problem."
"Shit, okay I'll be on my way as soon as possible." I replied groggily, rubbing my eyes, hoping to wake me up. I slowly unraveled hmyself from my satin blankets, dreading what could possibly be wrong to warrant such an early call. I was wholeheartedly dedicated to my job and everything that came with it. I made sacrifices everyday by saying no to outings with friends or getting to partake in hobbies I used to love.
But sleeping in my comfortable bed was something I wasn't willing to compromise.
"And I know you said Jack, don't bother me any earlier than 7am. If you do, I'll quit." He said jokingly, his voice mocking my own. A smile tugged on my lips, and I could feel a strange feeling flutter in my stomach unknown to me. I had never felt shy or sheepish at the idea of him.
I checked the digital clock on my bedside, seeing 6:47 flashing back at me. He was right. I should quit right now.
"It may be a vague threat but it's worked till now hasn't it?" I questioned him with a taunt in my voice, sitting on the edge of my bed slipping my cotton slippers onto my feet. I walked towards the window, opening it slightly to let the warm sun filter into my room. If I don't open the shades then I'll seriously consider going back to sleep.
"Sorry to do it to you, but I wouldn't call if it wasn't serious. See you soon Troi."
I made my way to the bathroom, taking my usual morning call of nature on the toilet. I continued to wonder at the idea of what could possibly be wrong. I began to unconsciously shake my leg up and down, overwhelmed at my own thoughts. With so early in the campaign, it worried me that it would affect the future of his run. We had worked so hard the last few months, solidifying our policy positions and outreach strategies, crafting the campaign budget, hiring and training staff, fundraising, you name it. Everything had gone damn near perfect up until now.
I had hoped that everything else would just go smoothly even if it was irrational.
I quickly jumped in the shower and proceeded to brush my teeth. I threw on black slacks, my only pair of Jimmy Choo heels that I was so proud of purchasing the first time, and a short-sleeve white blouse. I managed to put on some minimal makeup and jewelry to distract the fact I got ready as quickly as possible. I walked downstairs and made myself an iced coffee with caramel and sweet creamer.
