Story Premise
My name is Celeste James I’m hard working and try, to the best of my ability to uphold (most) of the Christian values that were instilled in me as a child. My life takes and unexpected turn when I cross paths with Quinn Phillips, an influential bi-sexual woman. Quinn presented me with a proposal that challenges everything she has been taught about sexuality and same-sex relationships.
Is this proposal a manifestation of a secret desire? Quin has everything I need to push forward in my career, but what will I have to give up? This is a journey of exploration and truths, which way should I go?
Historical Background
Celeste James grew up in Houston, Texas in a devout Christian Household. Being the middle child of five, Celeste was tasked with caring for her siblings because she was responsible and obedient. Her father, the pastor of Antioch Apostolic Church, was the grounding force in her life. He and Cleste had an incredibly special bond, and he served as a buffer between her and her mother’s tumultuous relationship. He also instilled a strong sense of community and spiritual beliefs into his family. When he passed away suddenly of a heart attack, Celeste felt as if her world had ended but she vowed to keep his teachings. Despite the challenges she faced, being left to manage her troubled relationship with her other, she graduated at the top of her class. After graduation, she secured her dream job at a marketing firm alongside her childhood best friend Marques.
Living in a high-rise apartment in the heart of Houston, and despite her deep dislike for her boss Andrea, her professional life flourished. Celeste harbored a secret, she struggled internally with her sexuality and secretly desired women. This part of her had never been explored because she knew it would devastate her mother and tarnish the legacy her father built. Being the forever obedient daughter, Celeste entered a relationship with Don, a handsome man who was paper perfect, but unfulfilling.
One evening after a difficult day of work Celeste went to her favorite bar and met Quinn Taylor Phillips. Quinn, dressed in a striking black suit, offered Celeste an enticing proposal. Celeste, surprised at the excitement she felt, accepted the proposal which was the start of their affair. Even though Celeste was living out her deepest fantasy, she struggled with her understanding of right and wrong.
Celeste confided in her most trusted friend Marques who encouraged her to be true to herself and affirmed that it was ok to explore her feelings. Coming to the realization that her newfound sexual freedom was only an experiment, she decided to end things with Quinn.
Main Character
Quinn Taylor Phillips is my name, and I am the proud founder of The QTP Agency, a product of my hard work, tenacity, and cunningness. I was born and raised in Houston's Fifth Ward, a tough inner-city neighborhood. I grew up in a single-parent household where my mother worked assiduously to provide for us after my dead-beat father walked out. Watching her struggle solidified my decision to never to live a life of hardship or have children of my own. I knew I wanted something different for myself, and come hell or high-water, it was going to happen.
I put myself through college while working three jobs to only end up as a secretary for one of the top advertising firms. I served coffee to the men in suits, begrudgingly of course. Little did they know, I was taking mental notes, collecting every bit of knowledge I could to fuel my future success. With deep determination and a clear vision, I eventually branched out on my own, founding the Quinn Taylor Phillips Advertising Agency. My agency quickly gained a reputation for being the best in the business and I bulldozed the competition.
I have always been clear about my desires and confident to pursue what I want. Though I have been with other women, none captured my attention quite like Celeste James. I first saw her at a convention for advertising professionals at the upscale Houstonian Hotel. She was delightful and everything she did piqued my interest. From that moment, I quietly followed her career.
One evening, while ending my day with a drink at my favorite spot, I saw Celeste walk in and sit alone at the bar. Her almond-shaped eyes and adolescence like innocence summoned to me. I sent her a drink and watched as she curiously scanned the room for the sender. Seizing the opportunity, I approached her, confident in my sleek black suit and voluptuous curls. I extended an invitation for what I thought would be a one-night stand. To my surprise, she accepted.
Our connection grew deeper than I anticipated, and I developed feelings for her. Now, as she tries to pull away, I find myself determined not to let that happen. With the influence and power to elevate her career tremendously, I cannot let her slip away.
Supporting Characters
Marques St. John- The best friend
I am Marques St. John, the ultimate friend. Celeste stood up for me against bullies in fifth grade, and we have been inseparable since. Her mom never liked me because of my sexual orientation, but that never stopped us. We have done everything together, prom, homecoming, and she went on my first date with me, she was the beard while by high school boo and I watched a movie. We went to college together and now work at the same advertising agency. What Celeste does not know is that I see her struggling with a tough choice. I want her to enjoy her life and make the decisions that are best for her. I just hope she finds the happiness she deserves, knowing I will always support her.
Celestine James- The devout Christian mother
I am Celestine James, proud to have been the wife of the late Austin Hollands James. Together, we raised our children with strong Christian values, teaching them to live by the Lord's guidance. Everything was fine with Celeste until she started spending time with Marques. From the start that boy was trouble. I see him leading my daughter away from her upbringing, and I will not let his influence take over her life.
As a caring mother, I introduced Celeste to Don, one of Houston's most eligible bachelors. I thought things were progressing well until Don showed up at my door, heartbroken, saying Celeste ended things with him. I cannot help but think Marques played a part in this decision. It frustrates me that Celeste does not listen to the advice I give her. She has been defiant since her father died. I don’t know what it will take for her to change, but I’m going to see to it that she does.
Andrea Stokowski- The boss from hell
I am Andrea, and I have worked too hard and done too much to let Celeste steal my spotlight. Coming from a family of advertising executives, I had a path laid out for me to rise to the top. Sure, nepotism played a part, but isn’t that what parents are for? I remember meeting Celeste when she was just an intern. She worked tirelessly, always trying to stand out, which I found sickening. I did not choose her for the team; my boss did, against my wishes. Yes, she is talented, but her skills should not overshadow my privilege. I am determined to keep my edge and not let anyone, including Celeste, take that for which I’ve worked for. My privilege trumps everything and everyone.
Locations
The balcony- The Enclave
Everyone needs a place where they can unwind from a tough day or just take in the serene views. That place for me is my balcony. It is dreamy and overlooks the city. The rich tones of cream and natural wood surround me every morning as I sit drinking a fresh cup of brew and in the evening as I settle down from a tough workday. If anyone were to ask me what I love most about my Highrise abode I would tell them about the balcony for sure. Whether it be a humid day, which Houston is known for or a rainy day you can find me in my favorite spot.
The Bar- Hot Takes
Since moving to downtown Houston, this bar has become a staple in my life. It is where Don and I met for our very first meet and greet. Although it is located in a swanky midtown area known for attracting a ritzy crowd, the atmosphere here is surprisingly laid back and welcoming. On any given day, you can always find good company and enjoy friendly conversations. One of the best features is the rooftop patio. It offers a refreshing change of scenery, especially when the weather is nice, and it provides a great spot to mix and mingle.
Houston Texas- Born and raised
Houston, Texas is my hometown, and I grew up here. I love this city for its rich culture and the strong sense of community it offers. Houston is incredibly diverse, with a mix of different foods, religions, and people. There are several things that make the city stand out and that it's known for:
- Tumultuous weather- we are located in the coastal region of Texas. The tropical environment is the perfect breeding ground for Tropical storms, Hurricanes, and flooding. Despite the pitfalls of the weather, there is no place I would rather live.
- Food- You can find a smorgasbord of food in this place. Tex-Mex, Cajun-Creole, and West African cuisine.
- The Johnson Space Center- This place was a favorite for me when I was a kid. My dream was to be an astronaut when I was a child, and my father and I visited this place often on our Daddy-daughter dates. After my father died, the place lost its sparkle, and I have not visited since. It just does not feel the same without him.
Additional World Information:
Religion has always been the cornerstone for my family. We ate, slept, and breathed church. My parents are devout Christians with a deep seeded belief that if you put Christ first everything else that you desire will follow. I used to love attending church with my family. We had youth camps, and vacation bible school.
My families’ strong Christian values are not unlike the majority of Houstonians. Did you know that Houston is considered to be among the most religious metro cities in the country? Christianity leads the city with about 73% of the population being believers of Christ.
Houston also has the lowest same-sex couple households in all the four major cities in Texas. Additionally, they rank in the 12th lowest in the nation among large metro areas.
Diversity is the key to understanding and luckily Houston ranks number one in largest cities in the US for diversity. This include socioeconomic and cultural diversity. It seems to be the melting pot of the south. The neighborhoods are vibrant, and every season offers some sort of festival or event to celebrate its rich heritage. The landscape of food choices are a testament to its diversity with Louisianna Creole ranking number one in food favorites. The variety of choices
Weather is also a major factor in my world- The tropical and extremely humid climate is the perfect recipe for inclement weather. My love for the city is strong, however surviving the flood prone neighborhoods is enough to make anyone reconsider relocation.
Story Synopsis
Celeste James is a young advertising professional in Houston, raised with restrictions from devout Christian parents. Being the middle child and responsible, Celeste prioritized her deep-rooted family values and professional success. A visit to her favorite bar forces her life to pivot in an unexpected way when she meets, the woman in black Quinn Taylor Philips.
Quinn, a confident middle-aged advertising executive captivates Celeste, leading her to explore desires that have always been considered taboo in her world. Celeste, feeling the weight of her decision, confides in her best friend who encouraged her to explore her feelings. After a whirlwind of romance, Celeste realizes her feelings were more of curiosity than a desire to change her sexual orientation. Unfortunately, Quinn has fallen deeply for Celeste and felt betrayed. Quinn uses her influence to keep celeste under control and in her bed. Quinn offers Celeste opportunities that it would take years to achieve in hopes of keeping the relationship.
Celest is haunted by her personal convictions and pushes Quinn away, seeking freedom from the relationship. Quinn, feeling betrayed, attempts to use her influence on sabotage Celeste. Celeste leans to her professional standing, having been diligent in her field to ensure her career remained intact.
Celeste, feeling strong and confident breaks free of Quinn. The secret affair was something she believed she wanted however, it resulted in guilt and confusion. The lessons learned from her secret affair have allowed her to embrace her true nature and will serve as a testament to the power of self-discovery.
Story Excerpt
Andrea was the boss from hell. She hated Celeste with a passion and had no problem making it known to anyone that would listen. The truth is, Celeste is a stellar employee. She is witty, attentive, and very well liked. Celeste also expressed a desire to do more when the COO visited, which angered Andrea. Adding insult to injury the COO complemented Celeste on her proposal to open a daycare for the employees by use of the empty office space on the first floor.
Celeste’s proposal offered the company the opportunity to fill an unused office space while generating an income from the employees that used the service; at a discounted rate, while adding convenience for the employees that work a later shift.
The proposal was brilliant…. Therein lies the problem. It was not Andrea’s idea. The COO was so impressed with Celeste’s pitch that he wanted to tour the office space, leaving no time for Andrea to present her idea. It was at that very moment that Andrea made it her business to get rid of Celeste.
“You are too late.” said Andrea as she slowly walked over to Celeste.
“The proposal had to be rescheduled because you were a no show. Come to my office please.”
Celeste looked at Marques and said, “come on.”
“Marques, I don’t need you. Just her.”
Celeste took the long slow walk of shame into Andrea’s office.
“Sit please.” Andrea said as she pointed to the chair in front of her desk.
“Do you like your job?”
Celeste peered at Andrea with a sarcastic sigh said, “Can I be candid?”
“Sure.”
“Andrea, I really love my job and have put a lot of time and energy into perfecting my craft, however, it never seems to be enough for you. I don’t feel supported and that makes working with you… for you quite difficult.”
Visual Branding
AI (2024). Two women with vivid makeup, expressing love and romance by kissing [Photograph]. Adobe Stock
AI (2024). Houston skyline with fast moving highway [Photograph]. Adobe Stock
Blvdone (2024). Young black business woman serious face portrait on city street [Photograph]. Adobe Stock. File umber 673867458
AI (2024). Young black woman confused with question marks above her head [Photograph]. Adobe Stock
AI (2024). Portrait of a mature African American woman in a sensual black top [Photograph]. Adobe Stock. File number 740322628
JonoErasmus (2024). Portrait of creative trendy black African American male designer laughing [Photograph]. Adobe Stock. File number 405179606
AI (2024). Mature black woman wearing glasses and smiling [Photograph]. Adobe Stock
AI (2024). Young business woman wearing a white button down and glasses [Photograph]. Adobe Stock
JHVEphoto (2024). The sign we love Houston [Photograph]. Adobe Stock
JHVEPhoto – stock.adobe.com
AI (2024). Sitting and relaxing area on roof of balcony of modern city house with green plants [Photograph]. Adobe Stock. File number 909225425
AI (2024). Whiskey glass at the bar [Photograph]. Adobe Stock
Conine, R. (2024). Houston, Texas reflections [Photograph]. Adobe Stock. File number 217495123
AI (2024). Parishioners sit in a church [Photograph]. Adobe Stock. File number 755796223
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