Present Day- Two Years Later
POV: Raven
While I’m on the phone with the sponsor who has committed to donating products for my Sex bucket list initiative, Lola bursts into my office without knocking.
“Quick! Turn on the Sports News Channel!”
I hold up my index finger to silence her, but she just waves me off, rolling her eyes. I frown at her dismissive response before putting my hand over the mouthpiece of my cellphone.
“I’m on the phone with a client,” I whisper. “We’re discussing the launch date and their product placement space on the website.”
She shakes her head, refusing to accept my answer. “Look at this!” she urges, ignoring my rebuff, before rushing over to my desk. She moves things around until she finds the clicker for the television. My eyes dart over in her direction before twisting my chair around for a little privacy.
She walks to my armchair, swinging it back around, and points the remote at the TV on the wall. She turns the volume all the way up, just as I’m finishing up my call.
“This had better be—-”
I mute my threat when I see my ex-husband sitting at the Sports News Channel desk answering questions about me.
Sports Announcer says, “So Dexter, you and your work partner Hugh Daniels seem to have the Midas touch. You guys have one of the most successful Sports Agency's in New York. But my question concerns your ex- wife, Raven Brody- Cunningham. What do you think about her instant success? In only two years, she has taken a big bite out of the same companies that you do business with, such as Nike and Under Armor. They have been rumored to be chasing her down for Product placement spots on her blog. Even some of your clients are seeking her out for freelance branding advice.”
“Well, my ex-wife's little blog is generating some buzz, and yes, she’s manipulated some minor victories, all of which is because of her exploitation of our divorce, nothing more.”
“Asshole!” Lola whispers. I shush her quiet to continue listening.
“Dexter Cunningham... come on, I don't think you are giving her enough credit. She is one of the most sought-after Influencers and branding agents in New York. She is even representing some top Professional Basketball League players, and according to an interview in HQ magazine, your business partner Hugh Daniels said, and I quote: “Cunningham Sports Management group would be who you are today without the contributions of Raven Brody-Cunningham.”
Lola looks over at me as soon as Hugh's name is mentioned, expecting some reaction from me, but I give nothing away.
I actually saw him on the cover of HQ last week in the supermarket, but didn't bother to read the article or pick up the magazine because seeing him on television or in print is just too painful; even now. I haven't heard from him in 2 years, not a phone call to check to hear how I was doing, or a text message just to say hi, not one email when I made my first million... nothing. Ever since we kissed that night, my separation was final, I have been exiled by him, shunned and forgotten.
I sigh, putting those things out of my mind to refocus my attention on the television screen.
“Hugh has a soft spot for my ex-wife. They remained friends after our divorce, so I’m not surprised by his statement. But she will always be mine... that's why she can't stop writing about me. (He laughs) Did you know I was her first and only lover? I guess I’m pretty hard to forget.”
“Wait... what the hell was that?! Did he just say what I think he said?” Lola's mouth drops open. She looks at me in shock and concern, questioning what I will do about this.
I close my eyes and lower my head in submission because even after all this time, he still won't let me have anything... but now, I will not let him win. I look up at Lola as inspiration strikes me.
“Launch my Sex Bucket list on my blog today and then text our source at Sports News Channel. Make sure he gives the message to the announcer while he’s interviewing Dexter.”
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“Yes, that's what I’m talking about!” Lola claps her hands, before taking out her cellphone. “I would hate to get on your grim side! But are you sure? Because once I press publish, there is no turning back. There are some risky things on your list, and social media can be harsh and unforgiving. They can turn on you at any moment…”
Her voice lingers a little, expressing her concern, but I’m so ready for this.
“Lola, I’ve been dating three eligible bachelors for 4 months now, and we have taken all precautions. They’ve all been recommended by acquaintances of colleagues, have all signed confidentiality agreements, and they will never reveal their identities. Not to mention, we have verified their portfolios, they’ve been vetted by private investigators and tested for diseases. I will narrow the three men down to one man in four days. Now is not the time for me to be squeamish,” I assure her... all the while trying to reassure myself before continuing.
“We built this entire business on my reincarnation, my quest to find myself and liberate me from Dexter's control and abuse. My disciples have supported me through this and have waited six months while we laid the groundwork for this launch. I will not let them down by second guessing this. I’ve received packages and crates of lingerie, perfume, shoes, sex toys, dresses, jewelry, makeup, sex club invites, and restaurant vouchers from businesses waiting for me to mention their products on our blog. Because when I do, millions of believers will rush out to buy everything that we tell them to purchase, and attend the places we recommend that they frequent. We’re fixed for this, Lola, and I’m ready for this. I need to wipe that smug smile off Dexter's arrogant face and be the person I want to be instead of the fearful shell of a woman he wants me to be. So, are you with me?” I ask her, wiping tears away.
Lola smiles, nodding her head as she presses the launch button in dramatic fashion. She gives me a high-five as we read over the list that is now published for the world to see.
Sex Bucket List:
#1 — Go on a date wearing a remote-controlled vibrator and give the device to your partner.
#2 — Make out with a stranger in a bar.
#3 — Have sex wearing high heels only! Too large to walk in or get out of bed, but significant enough to turn your mate on.
#4 — Have sex in public, sitting in your partner's lap while sporting a skirt.
#5 — Have sex hand cuffed to a bed.
#6 — Have an actual orgasm during sex... no faking it!
#7 — Masturbate with one person watching.
#8 — Visit a sex club with a willing participant.
#9 — Place a candy necklace around my thigh and have my partner nibble it off.
# 10 — Have phone sex with someone I have feelings for.
After we finish perusing the file online, Lola texts several news outlets to inform them of the launch. Then, she screenshots the list and sends it to our contact, so he can make sure that the announcer gets it. Now, the only thing left to do is wait...
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