This is a tale of love, music, fame, and survival, where every decision could lead to a chart-topping hit or a life-shattering downfall.
After Rebel (portrayed by Rihanna), a Chemistry and Music major, endured a tragic encounter in New York, her fri...
Rebel was supposed to meet Jerry at a building in Woodland Hills for a morning meeting. She arrived around 8:30, stepping out of her car and heading inside. At the reception area, she was greeted by a young Black woman about her age, who immediately lit up upon seeing her.
"You must be Rebel," the woman said with enthusiasm. "I'm Charis Henry, welcome to Ruthless Records!"
Rebel smiled back. "Hi, nice to meeting you Charis. Is Jerry in?
"He's running a bit late, but you can take a seat on the couch over there. I'll give him a page," she said.
Rebel took in the office surroundings as she sat waiting, noting how professional and modern it looked. The Ruthless Records logo was prominently displayed above the reception area, and the space featured floor-to-ceiling windows and large, imposing doors. Charis offered her coffee, but Rebel waved it off with a smirk. "Girl, unless you're getting some for yourself."
The two began chatting, sipping coffee, while Reb waited on Jerry. Charis mentioned how much she loved Rebel's song Kiss It Better. "It's my jam," she said, grinning. She shared that she was studying Business Administration at UCLA and had landed the assistant job after asking Eric for a chance. "I'm so grateful he helped me out," she said. "I love working here."
Rebel found Charis easy to talk to, and their conversation shifted to the struggles of balancing school and work. Charis spoke about juggling her classes with her job, and Rebel could relate. She explained how intense her schedule had been—recording an album on a tight deadline while attending USC. Between studio sessions, labs, and finals, some nights she didn't even make it home, crashing on the studio couch in her clothes from the day before. This morning was one of those mornings, though she always kept toiletries and a toothbrush on hand for such occasions.
As they chatted, the door opened, and Eric walked in. Charis greeted him warmly, but Eric froze for a moment when he spotted Rebel. He hadn't expected her there—he hadn't came around to announce to Dre and the other guys that Ruthless now have an office, since he been busy with getting the space up and running, doing multiple meetings a day, handlin' street shit and makin' sure his kids and family were good.
"Rebel," he said, his tone a mix of surprise and warmth.
The two exchanged greetings, though the energy between them remained cautious. Their interactions had been limited to business ever since Rebel had ended their friends-with-benefits arrangement. Even so, Eric decided to show her around.
"Come on, let me give you the tour," he said, gesturing towards the hallway.
Rebel hesitated but nodded, following him through the office as Charis gave them an encouraging smile.
Eric walked ahead, guiding Rebel through the sleek corridors of the Ruthless Records office. He pointed out the conference room with its expansive glass walls and state-of-the-art projector, the lounge area with plush sofas and a stocked mini-fridge, and the record library filled with vinyls and Cassettes from artists under their label. Even the restrooms were impressive, with their modern design and spotless fixtures.
Finally, they arrived at his office. The door had a polished nameplate that read Eric Wright - CEO. As Eric opened the door, Rebel stepped inside, her eyes scanning the space. The room was spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offered view of the garden outside, though the blinds were half-drawn to keep out the morning glare. The walls were white. His desk, a massive, polished dark wood piece, neatly stacked papers, and a few personal items and office tools. There was a desk behind him that held a computer.
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