Promises to Keep. Linda Hudson-Smith

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      “In that case, please come with me.”

      Darius got up from the table and walked to his office door with Meyer following along behind him. Darius opened the door and gestured for his guest to precede him. As he made his way to the reception area, he actually felt a little nervous. Knowing he’d soon see the lovely Courtney Campbell caused him to brace himself for the impact sure to come. Her mere presence hadn’t failed to level him yet.

      Smiling warmly, J.R. got to his feet, meeting Darius in the middle of the room. “Great seeing you again, man, but I didn’t know it’d be this soon. Both Monica and I were surprised by your invitation. We’re eager to hear what you have to say.”

      Darius chuckled. “And I’m eager to say it.” He turned to face Courtney and Monica. “Ladies, I’m glad to see you. You’re both looking lovely.” Briefly, he laid his hand on Meyer’s back. “This gentleman is Meyer Chandler from See-Through Films.” Darius introduced Meyer to everyone, giving his guests’ first and surnames.

      Meyer smiled at Courtney and shook Monica’s and J.R.’s hands, his grip firm.

      “Now that everyone’s been introduced, let’s go down this hallway and get settled into the conference room.” Darius looked back at Jasmine. “Please have drinks brought in right away. About forty-five minutes from now, you can have the food delivered.”

      “As you wish, boss,” Jasmine said, her tone soft and melodic.

      Darius ushered his guests down a long corridor and into a well-appointed conference room equipped with the latest in office furnishings and state-of-the-art electronics. A fifty-six-inch Kuro plasma television was mounted on one wall.

      Rushing around the table, Darius pulled out two high-back leather chairs for the ladies. Once everyone was comfortably seated, Jasmine rolled a portable serving cart into the room, loaded with all sorts of soft drinks, juices and a clear ice bucket. She pushed the cart to the rear. Smiling brightly then backing out, she nodded before closing the door behind her.

      Darius folded his hands and set them on top of the table. “First I want to thank each of you for working your schedules around this last-minute meeting. I’m so happy you could attend. Everyone here knows I’m a filmmaker. I’m currently working on a few special projects that Meyer and I are collaborating on. Both our production companies are fairly new, and it’s our intention to pool our resources and begin producing under one umbrella. Have I grabbed everyone’s attention so far?”

      Eager to hear what might come next, they all nodded.

      “I’m actually writing a romantic screenplay,” Darius continued. “The story line focuses on weddings, specifically June brides. We’re considering several distinctive ceremonies.” Darius paused to gauge the responses. Since no one appeared to be on the verge of cardiac arrest, he continued, his eyes directly connecting with Courtney’s. “Your catering business will figure heavily into this romantic story line.”