The Journal [A Sequel To Maya's Diary]

Chapter Four

"...giving away tickets for free. The first hundred people get to watch Tess perform live, without paying a dime. The citizens of Alabama should be grateful that our very own International singer, has chosen to spend Christmas in her own home."

I got to the living room early enough to hear that. The newscaster was a man this time around; A stout looking man, cloaked in an extra large sized sweater, and a thick scarf round his neck. He had a scrunched look to go with his forest green eye color and his back was inadvertently reduced to a slight hunch.

I sipped my morning coffee; a hot creamy caramel brown coffee, as I watched the morning news. I loved watching the news. I loved taking down ideas, for the probable books I might work on.

I went back into my room. Holding my coffee on one hand and bringing out my laptop from my bag with the other, I settled back on the bed. I needed a job, so I searched up for some online. I was done with College and wanted to get busy.  Fortunately, few had vacant spaces, so I applied.

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"...just a few more touches on your brows and you are good to go. You look stunning Miss Tess."

"Its OK. Thank you. Feel free to call me Tess. Remind me to double your pay, you made me feel comfortable throughout the spa treatment. I guess I'll keep you as my personal makeup artist. What do you say?" Tess spoke up, feeling her jaw line, with her fingers.

"Oh my God! Thank you so much. I'm so grateful."

"Meet my financial assistant, Steve. He'll handle the pay."

I do look stunning.

"Miss Tess are you ready? Your performance begins in ten minutes." Joe, Tess's music director spoke up as he approached with two perfect wine glasses, that slightly bubbled of California's finest Rosé wine.

"Exactly what I fantasied drinking just now. You really get me," Tess replied reaching for the drink.

"Of course. Not so fast Missy, you are permitted just a gulp or two," He said hesitating at first, but giving it back to her later. Tess sighed, taking it from his hand. Her make up artist Scarlett, had scooted off minutes after the director appeared.

Tess and Joe, were particularly close for a music director and a musician. Rumors foretold a relationship between the two, but Tess bluntly denied all allegations in an interview.

In her defence, she stated that it was an innocent relationship and that Joe was the reason she became an international singer and that she owed him. However, the rumor mongers didn't quit.

"Looks like someone is tensed," Joe said clanging his glass with hers and muttering in unison, "Cheers!".

"I'm not," She stopped to laugh. "I've performed live on stage a couple of times. Its no big deal."

"That was a benevolent act. Giving away free tickets to the first hundred people. I imagine the audience in their millions now."

"Oh please. I'm good to go," She replied gulping down the last of her drink.

"Do I call Scarlett back in, to do some final touches on your make-up?"

"Nah! I'm good."

"You sure? Because I can see a smear on your face."

"Oh dear," She replied, leaning towards the dressing mirror. Her royal blue dress, glistened. "Scarlett!"

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"Alright you all. I want to thank you all for coming over and to wish you all a Merry Christmas..." Tess began, clutching tightly to her microphone.