by Rosemary Rey
“The phone is only to be used for corporate purposes, not personal. There’s no privacy on these phones, as you may already know from those documents I gave you.” I looked up at him and our eyes met. His deep blue eyes were still cold and angry despite the warnings he was giving me to help me understand the way things ran at Pentagon. ‘There it was; the animosity toward me.’ I thought.
“About that Eric . . .” He shook his head.
“There’s nothing to discuss, Perla. I have it all figured out. I gave you information to help you decide to escape a toxic relationship . . . run as far away as you could from Pentagon, and then you come to me to help you edit a sex tape with him.” He shook his head.
“You used me to blackmail my employers into getting you a job here, didn’t you? I was the one who made the mistake of thinking you were all innocent and naïve. You’re far from it.” His tone was frigid and accusatory.
“Eric, please. Let me explain.” I begged. He stood up from the chair.
“No need, Ms. Mercurio. I know where we stand. From now on, we’ll only keep this thing, whatever it is, professional. Call me only when you need help with work related matters.” I watched his slumped back open the door and walk out.
I deserved his outburst. I accused Eric of having ulterior motives when he gave me the Pentagon files. Soon after Brady’s blackmail to buy the shares, I called Eric and asked him to do me a huge favor. He agreed to censor Matt’s face on the video. I sat with Eric the whole time, apologizing for what he was seeing as he blurred Matt’s face on his laptop within the sale’s office of Duration. I assured him it was for Matt’s protection, trying to keep him safe. He promised to keep the video secret and not judge. He gave me the copy on the flash drive, and swore he didn’t keep a copy. I had no way of ensuring he held no copies, but I took his word.
I stood in a trance just feeling horrible about our encounter. He was a good person, and I did use him for my self-preservation. I didn’t tell him the truth about my need for the censored video. He didn’t ask any questions, and as far as I knew, he kept the tape a secret. I had no one else to ask for technical support with scrubbing a video tape. He was my only hope. And now I knew how mad he was at me. I couldn’t help but think I’d driven away another ally.
*****
The rest of the morning was filled with familiarizing myself with Pentagon’s policies and practices through a human resources video session. Gill bought me a salad with grilled chicken and a latte for lunch. I’d never had anyone cater to my needs and whims in a professional setting, and I became spoiled very fast. Gill and I got along very well. Andrea was a bit standoffish. Gill told me it was her natural behavior and not to take it personally. She had been moved from another executive’s area to work for me, and she wasn’t happy about the move.
The three of us sorted my schedule for the few weeks. There were several large Pentagram design meetings I would have to attend. I was also scheduled to visit the construction site. I was excited about the tour. My ex-husband, Ben, would take me to the construction sites in the beginning of our relationship. When my role evolved in the company to take over their budget office, there wasn’t enough time to take trips to the sites.
Gill received a notification of a dinner board meeting scheduled in a couple of weeks. It would be the first time I would meet with the Pentagon men as a group. There weren’t many meetings scheduled with any of the Pentagon men individually or as a group during office hours. Zipper scheduled a one-on-one meeting with me for the following week. The agenda was to determine how things were going since starting work at Pentagon. I figured none of the other Pentagon men wanted to associate with me, and by default Zipper took over which was fine by me.
By the time I finished sifting and sorting documents and paper work related to Pentagram, it was already six thirty in the evening. I’d let Gill leave at five despite his protestations he could stay longer. Andrea left promptly at four-thirty and didn’t even bother to ask if I needed anything before she left. I didn’t pay much mind to her because I was delightfully engaged in the work. I felt more productive than I had in years. Pentagram was shaping out to be a spectacular project. I had received approvals for all of my design ideas, but not for the waterpark in the Light Tower’s pool area. I was told I needed to find a design firm capable of coming into an already blueprinted project. None of Pentagon’s design firms, like Gram Designs, were experienced in the field. Gill researched and contacted a design firm in California renowned for adventure and play structures, willing to send a designer to Boston to meet with a few architects and construction personnel. We scheduled everyone to meet on a previously scheduled design meeting. I was excited to hold my first big meeting, despite my running back to back.
I picked up my things and headed toward the elevators. It was eerily quiet. I chastised myself for leaving so late when the floor would be empty; the only inhabitants were cleaning crew. I bid them ‘good night’ in Spanish, and saw their eyes twinkle in acknowledgement for use of their native tongue. The elevator came quickly. I smiled at the memory of the elevator at Matt’s apartment. It took forever to arrive and we’d do wicked things to each other as we waited. We’d kiss longingly with an intense passion. By the time the bell dinged its arrival, we’d be breathless and impossibly aroused. The memories were sweet, but hurt profoundly.
When I bid the guards ‘good night’, I was stopped by one of the guards.
“Ms. Mercurio.” He called. “There’s a car waiting to take you home.” I looked at him, perplexed.
“I was just going to take the bus.” I responded.
“No, ma’am. We have strict orders. Executives leaving after six in the evening are to be chauffeured home for their safety. It’s a courtesy service.” He was stern, and didn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. I nodded.
I followed him to the sleek black car awaiting me. When the driver saw us exit the front doors, he hopped out of the driver’s side and jogged around to open the passenger door. He was a young guy, tall and fit.
“Good evening, Ms. Mercurio. I’m Manny. I’ll be driving you tonight and any night you’re leaving late from the office.” I smiled to be polite, but I couldn’t help but be concerned about being driven. I didn’t want to relinquish control to another driver. I gave him Carson’s address and within minutes we were off in heavy traffic toward the Sheldrake.
“Manny?”
“Yes, ma’am?”
“How often do you drive the executives around?” I wondered if I was an exception and not the rule.
“Very often. You are one of few women I’ve driven home. I think there are only two at the corporation.”
“How long have you worked for the company?”
“This is my second year. I’m happy to work there. They’re a great company to work for. I have a young family. My son is three and I have a girl, eight months, so the benefits come in handy during this economic downturn.” I nodded.
“Great to hear it, Manny. I’d like for you to drive me the rest of the week, if other execs don’t need you. I’ll probably be leaving same time every day until I move into my apartment within walking distance.”
“I’ll give you my number when we stop and you can call me at least ten minutes before you want to leave.” I nodded. We talked about his family, passing the time as we traveled through the busy road.
In no time, we made it to the Sheldrake. Manny opened my door, and gave me his hand to step out of the car. He handed me a business card with his phone number. I made a mental note to put his number in my cellphone. With my bags in hand, I made my way to Carson and Turner’s apartment, grateful I had a professionally successful day at my job. The only void I felt was not arriving home to spend the night with a lover.
*****
For the next two days, I worked long and hard on meetings with executives, designers, and architects about the changes instituted for Pentagram. With every step taken forward to implement my ideas, there were setbacks which I demanded be remed
ied in a timely manner. I wasn’t as patient as I had been in the past. Certain I’d frightened Gill with the way I spoke to one distributor, I took him out to lunch as an apology.
Gill chose a small little bistro close to work. He’d reserved a table earlier, and we were seated as soon as we arrived and checked in.
“This is a nice place.” I said as I reviewed the menu. I caught Gill nodding.
“Try the duck salad. It’s really good here.” He suggested. I nodded, but kept looking at the options.
“Gill, about my behavior this morning, I just want to say I was feeling a lot of pressure, which caused my outburst with the vendor. You know I’ve come into an already existing project and I added some new elements which require my immediate attention. I want to apologize for my language and tone while in the office this morning. If my voice was deeper and I had a penis, I would’ve been taken more seriously.” Gill stopped me.
“Women in corporate America shouldn’t apologize. You know what’s needed to make this project successful. They were given a reasonable timeline to provide the product. I was surprised because you were like a demure little thing, but tell you something can’t get done and you’re ready to call in the guards.” I giggled. He had a point. I would not apologize again.
“So, Gill, tell me about yourself.”
“Not much to say.” He sat back after taking a bite of a chip. “I’ve been working for Pentagon since graduating from college. I’ve been personal assistant to a few executives for the last five years.”
“What is your end goal? I’m sure you don’t want to be a PA for the rest of your life.” I asked, hoping I didn’t offend him.
“Actually, I enjoy it. Depends on how hard ass my boss is.” He winked. “I’m paid well. I have great benefits, vacation time, and have made so many connections in and around Boston. I’m living the life.”
“You’re the second person to say working for Pentagon has provided a great life. I’m happy to hear it.” I’d hoped I could have as good of an experience as Manny and Gill.
I shared with Gill a bit about me, eliminating my experience with Pentagon or my relationship with Matt. I didn’t know if he was given any details about me or how I came about the job. I’d be mortified if he knew I unintentionally slept my way to the top.
I liked Gill. We shared some great laughs and stories about ourselves. My trust in him increased as time passed while at lunch. Always the task master, Gill hurried the waiter to complete our service. We walked back to the office. I had a busy afternoon with a long executive’s meeting where I was introduced. It was the most nervous I’d ever been, but I held my own as I introduced the new Pentagram designs, and my expectations for finalizing the designs and construction.
*****
At about four in the afternoon when I took a little break from the pace of my day, I received a call from Magnus letting me know the apartment was ready for me to move in. I was incredulous. Once we hung up, I searched for Gill, completely ignoring Andrea.
“I need your help. I was going to let you go early, but I’m hoping you can help me with a personal matter.” He rolled his eyes and sighed. Then he smiled, and I could tell he was kidding.
“It’s my job, Perla.” I smiled.
“My designer just called and my very first grown up, executive apartment is ready. I can move in tonight and I need you to come see it with me because I’m nervous and alone.” I pouted. Gill smiled.
“Grab your things. I’ll meet you at the elevators.” He said glancing over at Andrea. I nodded.
Returning back to my office, I took my purse and briefcase. When I exited my office, I closed the door behind me, “Have a great weekend, Andrea.” I offered with a terse grin. Not waiting for a response, I walked toward the elevators.
I rounded the corner and met up with Gill. Gill held the elevator door for me to enter. I felt like a school girl sneaking out of school, although the work day was effectively done. We bid security a good night and a good weekend before I was stopped.
“Ms. Mercurio. I will call a car for you.” The guard offered. My brow furrowed.
“I don’t need a car. I’m within walking distance of my apartment, which is where I’m going.” I plastered a tight smile.
“Ms. Mercurio. It would be best if you were driven.”
“What is your name?” I asked coldly.
“Joshua Grant.” He responded. I smiled.
“Mr. Grant. I appreciate your concern, but my assistant and I will be walking the three city blocks to my building. I don’t need a car. It would be a waste of company resources to use one. I’m a big girl, and can take care of myself. You have a great weekend, Mr. Grant.” I left him open mouthed and dumbstruck.
“Have you ever seen them fuss over another executive before?” I asked Gill.
He shrugged, “I don’t know. I know they never did with my last guy.” I started to wonder if the car was a way to keep tabs on my movements. The question was, ‘who made the executive decision to keep an eye on me?’
Gill was impressed with my new apartment building. “Wow. You get to live here.” I beamed as we walked into the foyer.
“It’s my first big space and I’m super proud. I don’t know if I’ll live here forever, but for now, this is big for me.” I admitted.
We arrived at my front door which was wide open. I peeked in, and was delightfully assaulted with the most amazing visuals. Magnus changed the colors on me. He chose lavender, spring green, and light grey for the color scheme throughout the open concept living area. The walls remained white per my lease terms, but I didn’t miss the wall color. Magnus put up beautiful black and white pictures of ballet scenes and Boston landscapes in golden frames. Everything looked so lush and sophisticated.
Magnus stood by the window talking on his cellphone. I noticed the pause he took, staring intently past me as he conversed with the party on the other line. I smiled as I realized Gill must have been the object of his attention. Magnus broke his gaze, attending to his conversation. I looked at Gill, and once he realized I was watching him, his gaze broke from Magnus. He smiled meekly at me.
“It looks great.” He confirmed.
“Doesn’t it? I set my things on the counter top of my kitchen. Magnus hung up the phone and approached me. “Magnus. This is amazing!” We double kissed. I turned to Gill.
“Magnus, this is my assistant . . .”
“Gill. How are you?” Magnus interrupted, finishing my sentence. I was surprised they knew each other. They didn’t shake hands, which spoke volumes. My brief knowledge of Magnus as a well-known Boston socialite, a consummate party boy, didn’t register a connection to staid Gill. He’s been in all the local magazines and newspapers. Gill didn’t appear to live the lifestyle or run in the same social circles.
Gill nodded. “I’m well, Magnus.” He looked around. “You’ve outdone yourself once again.” He complimented.
“Thank you.” Magnus responded, never taking his eyes off of Gill. I decided it wasn’t time to ask how they knew each other. I was anxious to see the rest of my place. Magnus walked me through the living room, identifying his choices for décor. He informed me he didn’t have pictures of my family or friends and would leave it up to me, but he left behind some beautiful frames for me to use which matched the design. I hadn’t asked for a television, but he placed one over a beautiful antique console with curvy lines.
“Let me show you your bedroom. I promise you, you will never want to leave your bed.” We followed Magnus to my master.
I entered a room filled with rich colors. My bed was curtained by heavy aubergine draping. My sheets were white and plush. The accessory pillows were aubergine and patterned to match the draping. The side tables flanked each side of the bed and contained a lamp and other accessories. I couldn’t believe how he captured my personality. I made several slow turns, looking at everything he’d installed. Another antique dresser in a mahogany color to match the canopy bed with muted gold pulls, anchored a large mirror
opposite my bed.
He explained the art work of a woman in undress on a fabric layered chaise. Near the window, there was a similar chaise with accessory pillows and a lap blanket. He made a haven for me in this room. He showed me I had lighting within the canopy bed which I could turn off and dim with a press of the button. It felt like my own little cocoon. I could escape into my own little safe world where I could read and sleep. There was lighting next to my chaise, but sunlight streaming through the window would also serve as a little reading nook. I couldn’t contain my elation, hugging Magnus and thanking him profusely.
The final touch was my office space. Magnus took the longest wall of the room and placed floor to ceiling bookshelves one either side of a long desk. The shelves had old books, frames, little sculptures and ceramics. The wood bookshelves were stained a French grey. The desk was a white lacquer, which held a few antique milk glass containers with flowers and pencils, pens, and a beautiful lamp. It held space for my laptop.
I turned to look at the full sized bed. The frame was a black ornate frame. The bedding was beautiful and comfortable, adorned with lots of little decorative pillows. There were two small nightstands with small lamps. The wall art was of a jazz club with men and women in beautiful suits and gowns, appealing to the man or woman who would spend time in this room.
“I love everything, Magnus. How did you manage all of this in a few days?”
“It was a team effort.” He smiled. “Well, I have to go, love. I have a dinner to attend.” He kissed my cheek, taking my hand to place my key in my palm. “Gill, it was great seeing you again.” Gill nodded with pursed lips. There was a history there I desperately wanted to know, but wasn’t comfortable enough to ask Gill. We weren’t in a friendship place to reveal such personal information about our lives.
“I know what you’re thinking.” Gill said.
“Hmmm?” I played naïve.
