The Publicist's Plight (Book I in The Harrison Inc. Series) | ✓

Chapter Twelve: Life Isn't Fair

"Remember, Sebastian. Don't say anything stupid. This is a family affair," I say while putting pressure on my heel, trying to put the super glue to its use.

We've been driving long enough to now reach an actual street, with other cars sharing it along side us. Sarah, for most of the car ride has been walking Sebastian through where he will be going and what he will be doing. Most of it consisted of walking through animal barns, volunteering at the face paint station, and even doing a meet and greet.

The meet and greet is what frightens me the most, however.

I slowly but surely release the pressure from my heel and tug on it lightly. The heel doesn't move from it's base, and I smile, relieved.

"Just ten minutes away from the destination," the driver announces. The big Ferris wheel in the distance, red and white tent and long line of people outside are all a clear dead give away.

"Alright, this is it," I take a deep breath. "Remember what we went over, Sebastian?"
"What did we go over?" He asks, unamused.

"Don't joke with me right now, Sebastian."

We make a sharp right at the light into the fairgrounds, but continue driving until we're behind the area. There are other cars, and two security guards waiting with still postures and stone-like expressions by the parking area. Even through the tinted window, the sweat is clearly visible on their bald heads.

The car stops, and Sebastian's door is immediately opened by one of the security guards who rapidly approached the SUV. Sebastian steps out and makes a disgusted look at the sun until he reaches the shade.

I step out of the car and walk into the shade as well after Sarah and Lucas do the same. My heels, although reconstructed, tread lightly on the dirt and grass in fear of them breaking yet again.

Suddenly, a tall, black man with broad shoulders, gray hair and a bright smile walks through the back door of the building we stand in front of. He smiles at Sarah before anyone else.

"You must be-"

"Sarah Gonzales. Sebastian's manager." She shakes his hand, her friendliness somehow making me feel odd, how unfamiliar it is to me.

He smiles wider, "Matthew Carter. Maryville mayor. How nice it is to meet you," his eyes shift to Sebastian. "Sebastian Harrison. What a pleasure to finally meet you in person!"

Sebastian's smile is small and uninterested, "Likewise."

I stare at him until he shows Matthew teeth in his grin. When he does, I look away.

They shake hands, "Everyone is very excited to meet you, son, we have been prepping the fair-grounds for your arrival. We have many activities set up that I know you will enjoy!"

Seeing Matthew in person just adds to the enthusiasm I remember from his voice when I spoke to him on the phone yesterday. The accent is general American, yet there are small moments where I can distinguish the Tennessean in his tone. Even so, he has the ability to heighten anyone's mood with just his mere presence and charisma.

He greets Lucas, until finally he sees me. His eyes enlarge when they meet mine.

"Leslie King!"

"Yes, Mr. Carter, we spoke on the phone," I extend my hand towards his, and he takes it in his grasp.

"Yes, yes! Forgive me, but I imagined you much...differently, I mean your voice!" He laughs. "My, you're just the cutest little thing!"

I laugh awkwardly, "Th-thank you?"