Paxton recently alerted me to a sort of hidden hallway, where a few very private restrooms for important clients are kept, and it’s not long before I’m sliding behind the wall and finally able to hear myself breathe.
I yank on the doors, but they’re all locked.
“Shit,” I bark under my breath, growing agitated.
I’ve waited for this call for two weeks, and they choose now? Just my luck.
Walking swiftly down a back hallway, I continue to search until I find an unlocked door. It’s pitch black, save for the light streaming in.
The cloakroom is currently out of use due to it being summer. A few white sheets are hung along the racks, and a stack of extra chairs sits in the back corner. Otherwise, it’s bare.
Entering, I quickly shut the door and breathe out a sigh of relief when the noise from outside is snuffed out, leaving me able to hold a conversation.
“Kennedy, I apologize. I’m currently entertaining clients at Club Silver, and the noise was deafening.”
“No worries, Charles. I appreciate you taking my call at this hour. We just got word today about a new product launch, and it’s moved up our timeline. A strategic advertising campaign is a priority.”
This account would mean huge things for the company and our investors. I’ve been attempting to pitch to Diosa for six months.
Cavendish Corporation is a staple in the United Kingdom, but this branch, Cavendish Group, is different. This is a new company set up here in the States. We are the new kids on the block, scrapping for our piece of the pie.
I’m fortunate enough to have friends in high places that jumped on board immediately with me, helping with the competitive edge. But I’m still an outsider in this city.
Landing the high-end line, Diosa, will change all that. The owner of Diosa is the fashion designer of the decade. Working with them would ensure we’re the crème de la crème of boutique advertising.
Every model, superstar, and athlete worth their salt is coveting one of Diosa’s signature limited edition pieces, but the Diosa label doesn’t just include couture fashion. Middle-class America is running to Macy’s for their sister company’s everyday wear under the Icon line and to every mall for their AlteredX fitness apparel. They’re dominating the various markets.
When we represent them as their sole advertising team across all labels, it will be game, set, match for us with our competition. Getting this pitch ensures it because I know we have the talent to land the account if I can only get in front of them.
“You name the day and time, and my team will be there to pitch.”
“No need. This is a formality, Charles. We’ve seen what you can do. Drew has been raving about you for months.”
I’m going to owe Drew a year’s worth of scotch for his endorsement. It undoubtedly made the difference. He’s well-connected and on a first-name basis with Diosa’s owner, Sergio De Rosa.
“We just need to finalize the contract.”
At her words, a smile I didn’t realize I was capable of rendering breaks across my face.
“Brilliant,” I croon. “Tomorrow? First thing in the morning?”
I hear shuffling on the other end as Kennedy likely shifts through her planner. Diosa is old school, relying on word of mouth, runways, and fashion magazines. They are still working on their digital marketing plan as the previous two have failed. As their head of marketing, it’s one thing I’m going to stress to prioritize as part of our reinvigorations to their company.
“That’s perfect. Come by the office then.”
I nod, although she can’t see me. “I’ll be there.”
“Thanks, Charles.”
The line goes quiet, and I know Kennedy has already disconnected the call. It’s ten o’clock, well past business hours, but the successful never sleep in this city.
Kennedy Ryker hasn’t climbed to the most sought-after and highest-paid assistant in fashion by working nine to five. She’s a powerhouse and Sergio’s right-hand woman.
I pace the floor of the small room, not sure what to do with this renewed energy. That one phone call has changed the game. Cavendish Corporation is already a lucrative company in my home country, but this account makes this division the premier advertising agency in the US.
I’m practically bouncing off the walls, and I need to compose myself. One does not get to my level without the ability to remain grounded. We’ll have our work cut out for us. Landing the account is one thing. Executing a flawless campaign is another entirely.
I’ll need to hire additional help immediately.