Beautiful

14. You Want to WHAT?

You Want To WHAT?

Malcolm Turner was the first real influential client that ever Tierra had. He'd been with her for five years now. He was the first athlete she interviewed when she worked at Inda Streetz Magazine, before she started to work behind the scenes. He was a pro Basketball Player back then. But, a knee injury took him out of the game permanently. He said he saw something in her, and when he turned executive and took on some businesses of his own, he hired her to take care of some of his financial affairs and interests overseas. It was partly because of the job she did for him, that she landed the position at Baxwell Enterprises.

When she was hired it reminded her of what her professor in business school used to tell the class regularly, 'as big as this business is', and he'd spread his arms wide, 'it's really only this big,' and make an inch mark between his thumb and index finger. 'You never know who someone you are talking to today, knows across town where you are going for your next interview, or assignment tomorrow. So be careful, and always represent yourself correctly...' that's what she remembered Mr. Martinez saying.

Malcolm said he had a huge proposition for her. It was requested that she meet him for dinner, in a more non-formal setting to go over the details. She was very apprehensive at first. But, after a lengthy speech about how she doesn't date clients, she gave in and agreed.

'If has me drive all the way up to JC's for him to ignore my wishes, I swear he'll see another side of me.' she thought to herself, as the driver closed the door behind her. Soon they were on their way, up the highway towards JC's.

JC's was the hottest spot, on the Northeast side of the Connecticut River. A young woman, fresh out of college, started the restaurant after years of trying to bring her dreams to life. Jade Matthews, started off in school for a career in business. She thought she would end up in a cubicle somewhere and be invisible. But, as it turned out she had a keen knack for culinary delights. She would provide the deserts for a monthly entertainment venue, Gumbo Live, as a result, she received a call from a major figure in New England, whose wife just so happened to be in attendance. He requested that Jade cater his daughter's Quinceanera. He was so impressed with what she did, he insisted that she should start a business. Or, so the story goes.

The first time Tierra walked into JC's, she instantly loved the place. The atmosphere was elegant and upscale. Everything about it made her feel relaxed and welcomed. She's been spreading the word ever since. She's practically royalty when she walks in, because of all the business she's sent the owner. It doesn't hurt that she asks them to mention who it is that referred them. Momma ain't raise no fool! Although lately, she hadn't been as regular a face, as she used to be.

Friday nights were Open Mic Night at JC's. This was the one night where everyone knew to come out in their best attire. The attire was Grown and Sexy, Dress to impress, and people learned exactly what that meant to Jade Matthews, real fast. There was no way you were getting in on a Friday night in jeans, sneakers, hoodies, T-shirt, a baseball cap, or even Tim's. She demanded dress pants, button up shirts, and dress shoes for the fellas. But, the women..., well you know ladies, any excuse to get all dressed up, they were all for that. Jade did though have to school some on the subtle differences between, Sexy & Classy and Slutty & Trashy.

Artist from everywhere, not just local artist came for their chance to perform. Jade eventually hired her own internal A&R team, who actively searched for artist looking for exposure in an untapped market. They invited them up. The intimate atmosphere, candle lit tables, linen covered tables, real dishes, and a super courteous staff kept JC's packed. Not to mention the food!

It was 7:55pm when Tierra arrived at JC's. The valet opened her door and helped her out, as the doorman waved her in past the line of people hoping for a chance to make the cut. If you didn't make you reservation well in advance, you were likely plum out of luck, especially on a Friday night.