Shadow of A Rose

Chapter 4

A/N: This chapter contains a graphic scene which may make some characters feel uncomfortable. Please be warned.

"All life demands struggle. Those who have everything given to them become lazy, selfish, and insensitive to the real values of life. The very striving and hard work that we so constantly try to avoid is the major building block in the person we are today."- Pope Paul VI

The press conference was teeming with reporters and cameramen, all excited about having their first one-to-one with the CEO of the prestigious James-Carmichael and Co.

The CEO who had been disgraced.

The skinny young reporter she had assaulted had become somewhat of a hero amongst them and in a period of a week, had gained a hike in his salary and a promotion.

The shutterbugs started clicking as soon as Y. James made an entry, dressed in an elegant two piece blue dress, a black jacket, sunglasses and her classic red lipstick. She always felt the need to cover her face when it came to the media.

She took a seat on the table next to Gordon, her PR team on both sides of them.

Jenna pulled a chair next to her, giving her a reassuring glance. "Don't worry, I've got this," she mouthed

The plan was that she was going to avoid speaking at all and let Jenna answer.

Jenna took the mic and signalled the commencement of the press conference.

The questions began.

"Miss James, is it true that you're about to add designer garments to your next venture?"

"Yes, we are pleased to announce that J-C Co. will be collaborating with Dana Lawrence for a new brand of designer clothing," said Jenna. Dana was another one of her close friends she had met a few years ago. She was one of the most famous fashion designers in the world.

"Miss Yvonne, is it true that you have undergone four rhinoplasties in the last five years?"

Yvonne almost burst out laughing. These people were ridiculous.

Jenna rubbished the claims.

"Is it true that the JC tower in New York is being built in the memory of your late partner, Ronald Carmichael?"

Jenna answered, "Yes, that's true. And you are all cordially invited to the inauguration ceremony on the 8th of August."

So on questions continued, and Yvonne zoned out a little, her mind chasing various deadlines, until a particular question irked her.

"Sources say that you are not attracted to men, is it true?"

Yvonne wasn't one to lose her temper so quickly. She kept her cool, letting Jenna answer.

"That is ridiculous. Miss James is simply too busy to be in the dating scene," spoke Jenna, a hardness to her voice.

"Why have we never seen Miss James with a man?"

"Who was your last boyfriend?"

"Are the sudden bursts of rage a sign of sexual frustration?"

"When was the last time you've been with a man, Miss James?"

Hushed laughter and giggling was heard throughout the hall.

A blush threatened to color her cheeks as she struggled to check her anger. Her hands tightened into fists at her sides, but she couldn't control it. Yvonne had had enough.

"Silence!" She yelled, smashing her fists on the table.

The reporters immediately sobered and became quiet, nervously.