A BILLIONAIRE'S DEVOTION

PART -5-

HAPPY READING

Kahdeem Emmerson POV

I wake early at 5:30 am, brush my teeth, shower did my hair in a tight updo bun, moisturize my body extensively and give myself a motivational talk; "no matter what is happening in my personal life I will do what I do the best, grind and make my bag regardless."

I arch my brows, put on my lashes and apply minimal concealer. I get dressed in a white button-down shirt, paired with a beige trench vest and bi-stretch black fitted pants.

I slip on my black heels, look in the mirror and take a deep breath. "I'm going to walk in there, renegotiate Mr Smith's contract and walk out with more than they promised in the first place. Go girl, you got this," I reassure myself.

Trust me, it helps to be extra confident in a room full of men.

I get into my car, put on my radio and drive off.

I'm meeting Mr Smith there as agreed upon in our last meeting. No matter how I feel personally about a case I try to never get too casual or attached to my clients. It's all business and nothing personal. It's better that way for morality's sake.

I pull up to the stallion manager's office, Mr Smith is already here waiting. He walks over, meeting me halfway. I turn to look him in the eyes. "You ready?" I ask adjusting his tie.

"I was born ready ma'am," he answers confidently.

"Good," I say.

"Do you trust me to get it?" I ask.

"Hell yeah, ma'am," he says with zealous enthusiasm.

"You remember everything I said."

"Yes ma'am."

"No matter what I say in there you stay quiet, straight face and not a line on your forehead or a frown on your brows. Not a word."

"Yes ma'am."

"Do you understand?"

"Yes ma'am."

"Good, let's go."

"You got me a little scared ma'am, I think I fear you more than guys on my team."

"Good... Now imagine what I'm going to do in there."

We walk into the building, stop and wait to board the elevator. After a few seconds of waiting the door opened and we board with two other persons, one male and one female.

Getting to our floor, the lift stop, the door opens and we walk out, side by side to the conference room.

Mr Smith and I walk into the conference room with me leading the way, "good morning gentlemen," I give a smile noting the five men at the table, Mr Smith's coach and agent in total.

Mr Smith nod and we are directed to take a seat at the long mahogany table. I look across the table taking my seat, watching every one of the gentlemen in their eyes.

"Good morning Ms Emmerson, let's get started," the team manager says.

I nod and the other gentlemen did the same.

"First order of business... Mr Smith my client here is no longer in need of your services Mr Miller," I say looking at his agent, his mouth drops and he stares at me.

"I have drafted a contract here stating your settlement and Mr Smith being independent for the rest of the meeting. I will be representing him from here onwards," I hand over the contract and in disbelief, Mr Miller takes the document looking it over. He hesitates for a few more seconds looking at the paperwork.

"Since there wasn't a clause in the contract he signed, keeping him at your agency. I think your last month's salary is more than fair, wouldn't you agree Mr Miller."

His eyes almost swell, looking from Mr Smith then back at me. He nods gracefully without a word.

"Now if you would sign on the dotted line. That would be all and you can remove yourself from these proceedings."

He look back at the paper but didn't move, "do you need a pen sir,' I ask taking out my ballpoint company pen.

He nods and I hand it over. Very incompetent.

Mr Miller sign on the dotted lines and pass back the document. "You can keep the pen, sir." Without another word, he walks out of the room probably not believing what happened.

The other four gentlemen exchange looks before looking at me.

"Now with the current contract, you offered Mr Smith is signed for a five years deal. He was promised a $1.5 million deal but to date, he has only received $900,000. I am fully aware that is on his previous representation."

"So you're here for?" The manager asks.

"The amount detailed in your terms and what he received is nowhere near the contribution he made to this team. Mr Smith here has more playing time and touchdowns and... it's guaranteed he plays his yards needed in the first down in the first play every year since being signed."

"Can we guarantee these performances year after year if we decide to negotiate the terms and increase of his contract," he asks sitting back in his seat.

"Mr Smith's stat has only gone up since college and it's the reason you sign him immediately. You're aware of what he brings to the table and if you're not satisfied with what he has shown so far and is willing to expand on... he's willing to take his talent to another team, that knows what he deserves." I say sitting back and looking him in the eye.

The room went eerie silent as the two men exchange glances. "What are you looking at?" He asks and I wanted to smile but I keep my straight face.

"For a player of his stature, with his achievements, I'm putting two eight on the table and a fixed monthly salary."

"Excuse us, Ms Emmerson," says the coachman and I nod.

"While discussing, remember Mr Smith has been gaining grounds since his first game, it keeps getting better and he's more than willing to continue with or without you."

He nods along with the stallion manager and they walk out of this room.

"I don't want to trade," Mr Smith whisper nervously beside me.

"Not a word Mr Smith," I send him a reassuring smile and sit up as the two men walk back into the room.

Taking their seat, "what terms can we change Ms Emmerson," and Mr Smith's eyes almost fly away.

"Let's talk business," I say.

_____

I smirk "it was a pleasure doing business with you gentlemen," I shake their hands, Mr Smith did too and we walk out with everything we asked for.

Mr Smith hugs me tight the minute the door closes behind us. "Thank you, ma'am," he whispers in my ears.

"I- can't- breath-," I try to squeeze out, feeling this man squeezing the air out of my lungs.

"Sorry, ma'am." he smiles.

"It's ok, you deserve it, as long as you keep those numbers up... you come back and see me."

"All I need is an agent now ma'am."

"Not to worry Mr Smith, I have the right fit for you." I give him Kendrick's information and see him place the call.

I head back to my office, to complete my day's work so I can leave early for the ceremony tonight.

Sitting back in my chair I run my hands over my face. My phone rings and I pick up immediately.

"Hey girl...you and Edward coming out tonight right?" Chinell asks over the phone for the second time today chasting all my thoughts away.

"I know you heard me this morning and yesterday and Tuesday and the day before that and the day before that," I chuckle.

"Hmm," she hums.

"Chinell, I would've informed you if anything had changed," I say shaking my head knowing good and well she is panicking again. I quickly shift into work and best-friend mode.

"She is just all over the walls today, pay her no mind," Kendrick says on the three-way.

"I'm panicking over here," Chinell says and I roll my eyes at how dramatic she has been for the past few weeks since she was awarded the prestigious breaking through prize. It is an international award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to life science.

There is a televised award ceremony designed to celebrate scientific discoveries and development to inspire the next generation of scientists at the NASA research centre. It is an extraordinary event and I'm extremely proud of her. She was one of the leading developers discovering ways to extend life immunity.

"Stop worrying Chinell you're going to do great and I know your speech is killer because I wrote it. I wouldn't miss it for the world."

"Tell her mother she is such a grump all damn day," Kendrick chuckles.

"Seriously Kenny? I'm stressed out over here and you are trying to be funny," Chinell sighed.

"Child you deserve this because you certainly worked hard for it, so breath you're going to do fine," I say.

"I know but I just can't help the nerves," Chinell says with frustration.

"I love when you put on your mom's voice kay," Kendrick laughs and I huff.

"Now both of you get off my phone. I have work to do, clients to attend to."

"Yes ma'am," Kendrick says.

"Thank you kay I needed a stern warning," Chinell says.

"Any time honey. You're going to walk up that stage, accept your award and give your speech without being socially awkward. It's just the nerve, remember to breathe and keep breathing," I say.

"In case you forget I will remind you," Kendrick says with a chuckle.

"She needs to relax, you're going to be great," I say.

"I will. I have to get my hair and makeup done in a few and I haven't bathed," she says in a rush over the phone.

I laugh and Kenny chuckle.

"I will see you both tonight," Kendrick says and they cut the call after we said our goodbyes. Placing the receiver back in its place, I sit back in my chair. I shake my head with a small smile.

With a pause I realise, I'd been going back and forth about the gown I wanted to wear tonight. Still, couldn't decide.

Against my better judgement, I was honestly waiting to colour coordinate with Edward who hasn't given his word about tonight.

Picking back the phone I dial his number and waited as it rings. After five rings Edward answers sounding tired.

"Edward Bailey," He says smooth like he was paid for his tone.

"Hey baby, how is your day going?"

"Good...you?" He asks.

"I'm fine," I answer.

"Fine," he says.

Thinking I should say something about his distance response but I decided to bite my tongue figuring he Is tired. I wasn't sure where it came from but it has been prevalent since a few months ago. I figured it was all the late hours and with audit season on us, I figured it will all change once everything is back to normal.

I can tolerate him for the time being, he will understand I'm patient with him, with us... Committed to our relationship I will give him the space he needs and still be supportive of his endeavours, after all, he is working. And even though it has become an inconvenience, he was working for our marriage and our future. I need to stay loyal, encouraging, positive and just simply be the good girlfriend.

Fine," I repeat.

"Anything the matter?" He asks dryly.

"Have you decided on a suit for tonight?"

"Tonight?" He asks like it's a mystery.

"The award ceremony, you promised Edward," I say frustrated. This was my eighth cancellation in three months and it's driving me crazy.

Deep down there was a nagging suspicion, that more was wrong. Something wasn't right, something didn't feel right but I couldn't complain, I found myself complying with what he wanted when he wanted without anything in return. I couldn't help it and when he made plans without consulting me, that was awfully inconvenient to my schedule. I give in without resistance because I love him. Of late I've been questioning if it was the loneliness that made me feel a connection to that handsome stranger or was it something else.

"I'm sorry Kahdeem, I didn't expect to be this swamped. I have so much work," he says.

"Edward you work at a bank..."

"I am a supervisor it comes with the territory. How can I afford our life together if I do not work? How are we planning our wedding? if I have to leave work because my girlfriend is complaining."

"I'm not complaining it's just... Never mind Edward I will go with Kendrick and Chinell," I say. What was the point in arguing? when he finds ways to appease me to his content.

"Good girl, I will see you tomorrow. I will be sleeping at my place tonight, I will probably be late again," he says dismissively and I shake my head. He slept at his apartment every night this week.

"Alright, Edward. I will see you tomorrow then," I try to be calm and not show my irritation which was rising.

Without another word, he cut the call and I am sitting here still trying not to complain.

Lately, I've been questioning everything, sometimes I wonder just where are we heading does he still need me like he did the first time, he didn't leave me, not for a moment. Now... not even a phone call that would keep me awake at night, much more his kisses and warm embrace. It was tiring, to say the least. I can remember when we had the best of times, now it's cold lonely nights.

I'm a fool for those things...

When we first met, I didn't find him interesting in the least but he persisted after building his courage to talk to me. I wasn't looking for a relationship at the time, wasn't entertaining the idea of a man around. Lord knows I had my fair share and I needed a break.

But he was so sweet, so loving and a very passionate lover who ejaculates way too soon than I would like but I can live with that. Right? I lived with it.

Right... I try not to dwell on it and point out his failures in that department. It was a department I didn't have much experience in since Edward is the second person I've been romantically involved with.

I just didn't have my luck so when Edward came along I wasn't interested.

Edward is very hardworking and showed up more than twice a day bringing me lunch, roses and late-night dinners. We'd spend our nights talking about our dreams and ambitions, watching Netflix and just chilling in each other company. The closer we got the more he grew on me. One lunch date turned into over a dozen dinner dates, him practically living at my house, it made sense to commit and now two years ago last week, here we are.

Staring at the receiver blankly, its tone blare and I place the reviewer back in its place looking at the phone.

Guess I will be going with my two best friends

____

Slipping out of the chair in the conference room, I shake Mr Garnett's hand. "See you on Monday sir, I will have all the paperwork ready for our next meeting at 1: 00 pm sharp and we can proceed from there."

"Thank you Ms Emmerson and I look forward to such," he says patting the back of my hand in his.

"You're welcome sir, see you on Monday."

"Goodbye Ms Emmerson," he says walking out with the two men Bruno and Sasky who accompanied him.

Mr Garnett had a dangerous aura about him but all of his dealings were legitimate and to the books. Every meeting he had two different men with him and this being the third meeting it didn't bother me as the first did. The two men never utter a word as if they were never here and Mr Garnett conducts himself very professional in every meeting.

It is now 5:00 pm and I should be heading home. I slip my blue pointed toe back onto my heels. Smoothing my skirt, I pick up my documents and bag.

My Secretary made the log and I went home.

I throw my bags on the kitchen counter and head straight for my closet. Since I was hoping to coordinate with Edward, what should I wear? I have a few new, used and regular gowns to choose from.

Being it is a formal occasion and it's being televised I need to look the part. I decided on a black gown with a wide slit on my side, open to my midsection, covering my breast and draping over one shoulder with two straps. Mom bought this for a company dinner and I thought it was too revealing for that occasion but it's perfect for tonight. I then choose my slim, ankle strap black heels. Now that, that is covered I'm ready for a shower, then hair and makeup.

After my skincare regimen, I pin my earrings and look over myself in the mirror I'm satisfied, more than satisfied. Thank god my younger sister thought me to slay my brows and a few tips and tricks to make my eyes pop.

Sending a text to Edward and a few snaps hoping to get a response before I leave the house.

But non after a few minutes.

I didn't call or text my friends that I'll be arriving alone. I didn't want to reroute our plans of us meeting there.

So I call a taxi, I'm not driving in these six-inch heels, nope not tonight especially if we are going to celebrate after or have the expensive champagne usually served at these events.

Since I have the day tomorrow too I can go a little overboard, it's been a minute since the crew hang out by ourselves.

"Good evening ma'am," the driver greets and I nod and get in adjusting my dress.

Giving him my destination, I take a breath and check my phone again but still no response. He was probably busy with audits I thought and place the phone back into my purse.

Half an hour later the car parked and immediately I see Kendrick standing at the entrance. His fresh sharp fade made him look youthful with a boyish charm. His suit was neat and tailored to his ripples.

"You clean up nicely ma'am," he says taking my arm in his. "Not so shabby yourself," I say and he kisses my cheek then chuckles.

"I had to bring my A-game standing next to you ladies."

"Good looking out today, thank you kay," he says.

"Don't mention it, just be great at it."

"The best," he chuckles.

Chinell walks up to us with a stunning, long, elegant gold dress showing her every curve. Her hair is in a loose half up half down bun and pearl accessories.

"The lady of the hour, you look gorgeous best friend," I say and we exchange kisses on the cheek before Kenny takes our arms in his.

"Where is Edward?" Chinell asks.

"I'm sorry he couldn't make your big day but I'm here, the gang is here, just like before, old time..."

"Is he working late again?" Kenny asks looking at me directly.

"He works at a bank. What late work?" Chinell asks.

"Guys it's audit season and you know he's trying to keep his position," it's no secret they weren't fond of Edward right now, brushing me aside and the constant cancellation but it is his work if he wasn't working what else could be possibly be doing.

"Come on it is your night, when was the last time we got dressed up like this and thought we could rule this town."

"We do look badass don't we," Chinell says.

"Come on ladies am the baddest dude tonight with you beauties on my arms," Kenny says.

Taking a step, we stop in our track as security detail forms a line and a group of well-dressed men walks along the red carpet. I couldn't make out their faces but they looked to be about three males and a female. Security also follow close behind and very quickly they were out of sight.

"Who was that?" I ask.

"Probably the president with the way security was close," Chinell says.

"Did they say he was in attendance tonight?" I ask.

"I don't know, they will never inform us of who is in attendance," Chinell says.

"It can't be," Kenny says. "The president would have remarked," he adds.

"Guess we have to go in there to find out," Chinell says.

"Let go then..."