She’d chosen her outfit carefully this morning. Nothing said professional like black tailored slacks and a crisp white shirt. Five-inch black boots added height and confidence, and she’d styled her hair in a sleek chignon with a deep side part. She had no idea why her uncle Harold wanted to meet her this morning but hoped it was to discuss the holiday marketing campaign about to hit. If that was the case, she wanted to make sure she dressed the part of savvy executive.She felt her hopes dwindle as soon as she met Harold’s icy blue glare, his disapproval a near tangible force. Then again, Harold always looked like he smelled something rancid when he looked at her, so why should this morning be any different.Kimberly, seated at Harold’s left, offered her an encouraging smile. Alyssa locked on that smile as she slipped her hand inside her oversize shoulder bag and made sure her folder of notes and ideas for the campaign was still there. She placed her bag in a seat across from them, next to Richard Blaylock, who was already seated and drinking coffee out of a heavy mug emblazoned with the silver and blue Van Weldt logo.She got herself a cup of coffee from the silver service on the mahogany side table, stirring until every last granule of sugar dissolved.
