She walked quickly, ran, and even risked taking off her pointed-toe pump heels. When she finally arrived at the TV dinner, she was relieved that it hadn't started yet. As soon as the director saw her, his face darkened, and he furiously walked towards her.
"Director, please excuse me! Something came up lately, and I spent the whole night trying to produce this," she said immediately while handing him the document.
He briefly went through it, gasped, and looked at her with a serious expression.
"Sani, you are a talented screenwriter, and I don't want your downsides to disprove that. You know how strict the managers are on professionalism and punctuality. I won't always be able to cover for you," he said.
"And I'm grateful for that, Director Contee." Sani smiled.
They heard footsteps coming their way. Sani looked up, and her smiling face was immediately replaced by an indifferent look.
"The thorn in this TV channel's foot is finally here. Who do you think you are?" the lady asked.
"Just because I respect my job and Director Contee, I won't play your game." Sani said calmly but firmly.
"You don't deserve to be here. I'll write a complaint and ensure your dismissal."
"Quinn, it's not necessary to go that far. The essential thing is here. Take a quick look and let's start the show. Next time, Sani will be punctual. Won't she?" Director Contee turned to Sani while raising an eyebrow.
Sani nodded approvingly, and Director Contee moved away with Quinn.
Furious about all of that, Sani walked to her office. She closed the door forcefully and abruptly sat on her chair.
Quinn Kone was definitely her antagonist in that company. They couldn't stand each other. She was so provocative, arrogant, and haughty. Ever since Sani arrived there, Quinn tried in every way to ridicule her. Sani had always worked hard for her goals, with promotion being one of them, but was unsuccessful. Quinn had everybody wrapped around her finger and was suspected by her colleagues of having an intimate relationship with one of the managers at the TV channel.
Her first day was still fresh in her mind. She was full of dreams, hopes, and aspirations. Dressed formally in a white shirt and black pencil skirt, her eyes were filled with excitement as she saw the channel's banner with "Cameroon's National Channel (CNC TV)" written on it. She held her documents firmly against her chest and entered the company. She was amazed by the white paint, crystal-like architecture, and the spaciousness of its interior. It was difficult to get anyone's attention as everyone was busy. TV sets were placed at every corner of the company. She went to the reception desk and greeted the lady behind it.
"Good morning, Ma'am. I'm Sani Gowon, a last-year journalism master's student. I was sent by the National University of Journalism for an internship in your company and I wish to..." She was interrupted before she could finish introducing herself.
"Ada, when Director Contee arrives, hand him this," the lady (Quinn) said, giving the document to the receptionist.
She was about to leave when she stopped to scornfully look at Sani from head to toe, then asked.
"Who are you?"
"I'm Sani Gowon. I was sent by the National University of Journalism for an internship, precisely by the Dean of our faculty. I have the permission note with me." She showed the file to Quinn.
"Do you really think you are qualified to work in this company?" Quinn asked in a mocking tone.
"I've been studying journalism for years now and have acquired enough skills to handle this internship. Working here as an intern is an opportunity to acquire more skills and experience."
"Well, come with me. I'll show you where you should start."
Sani immediately recognized Quinn. By that time, Quinn had been in the journalism industry for just three years, but her rapid rise to top positions was remarkable. She was highly admired and envied by her colleagues, viewers, and Sani equally. Her carefree way of dressing and hosting was daring. Beautiful as she was, her audience was mostly male. Rumors went around that she was on the verge of hosting her own show.
A few minutes later, they stood in front of a door displaying a banner that read "CLEANING EQUIPMENT."
"Go in!" Quinn commanded, her confidence oozing from every word.
Sani looked at her with confusion.
"Are you sure, madam?" She asked.
Quinn's haughty smile didn't waver.
"I am," she replied curtly.
With a hesitant hand, Sani pushed the door open, revealing a room filled with various cleaning supplies. She couldn't help but feel as lost as Quinn appeared to be.
"Madam, I think you misunderstood me," she spoke up, her voice faltering. "I am just an intern."
Quinn turned towards her, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"And your internship starts right here. Begin by cleaning my office, but first, bring me some coffee. Not too hot, not too cold, a little creamy with a cube of sugar. Good luck!" She flashed a confident smile before turning on her heel.
Just as she was about to exit the room, she paused, casting a judgmental gaze upon Sani.
"Welcome to CNC," she said dismissively, and then walked away.
Walking around the company with the coffee in hand proved to be a stressful task for Sani. She accidentally entered the wrong offices multiple times, causing the drink to grow colder with each mistake.
Despite her timid attempts to seek guidance, nobody seemed to have the patience to answer her questions about Quinn's whereabouts. Finally, after being shown the correct office, Sani nervously knocked on the door and, upon receiving permission, carefully entered.
Inside, it became apparent that Quinn shared the office with another individual, as there was another desk within view. Sani couldn't help but notice the coffee machine on Quinn's side, causing her to wonder why she had put her through such a challenging ordeal when she had the means to make her own coffee.
As Sani took in her surroundings, she noticed a woman meticulously polishing Quinn's nails while she engaged in conversation with her colleague. Clearing her throat to announce her presence, both women looked up, their gazes fixed upon her.
"Our intern is finally here. Girl, let me tell you something! Quinn Kone does not wait," Quinn stated sternly.
Sani's nerves got the best of her as she stuttered, "I'm sorry, ma'am. I had a difficult time finding your office."
Quinn abruptly stood up, striding over to Sani and snatching the coffee from her trembling hand. Sani's heart raced, unsure of what was about to unfold. Quinn scornfully stared at her, her piercing eyes filled with disdain, before tossing the coffee onto Sani's clothes. In the midst of this commotion, a man entered the office.
The nail polisher was taken aback by Quinn's actions, while her colleague simply ignored the situation, almost reveling in Sani's misfortune. However, when the man caught sight of the scene, his expression shifted rapidly.
"Quinn, what on earth is happening here?" he demanded, the concern evident in his voice.