Episode 36
I have somehow competed with Beya’s killer closing speech.
Blair approaches and after everything I’ve learned about her from Paya, I can say, I won’t miss seeing her face.
“Celeste,” she says my name in a condescending tone.
“I respect your game play. Too bad my relic wasn’t real, thanks to you.
” She exhales, exasperated. “As you all know, I’m an artist. I want inspiration.
So, Celeste, tell me why you deserve one million dollars. ”
I could care less about Blair respecting me. I can see Jeida glaring at her across the room. Without looking, I know Paya is doing the same.
“You’re welcome for the relic, by the way.
” I shrug. Lucky for her, I don’t have much else to say.
After my mind reels for a long moment thinking of something incredible to convince the jury to choose me, I finally settle on the raw truth.
I clear my throat. “Most of you know that I am a business owner but what I didn’t mention is that I’m the CEO of Ashford Magazine. And fan favorite Megan’s older sister.”
Everyone’s eyes go wide. Steph smiles, leaning in.
I sense the cameras zooming in on me. I swallow the lump in my throat.
“I’ve recently discovered my company is slated to miss payroll by the end of the year.
” This is the second time I’m saying the words out loud and it’s just as difficult.
“Truth is, I was too embarrassed to admit that I lost myself somewhere along the way while I was scaling my business, which directly impacted the most important people in my life. My employees. My family. My trust in myself.”
Paya’s hand finds mine and I face her, appreciating her comforting presence.
“Because of how hard I played this game…” I gaze deep into Paya’s soul.
“Because of you. I remember I am exactly who I say I am. And that’s worth one million dollars to me.
But also, I need to pay my employees.” As the jury chuckles, I give Paya a wink, keeping our promise until we’re off the island.
Somewhere along the way, I forgot the grass roots approach that made my magazine what it was. At every turn that I didn’t listen to my intuition, my business and my heart paid the price. While playing The Final Summit, I can confidently say, I found myself again. Celeste Ashford is back.
I take a deep breath, knowing that Paya was right.
Win or lose, Ashford Magazine isn’t going anywhere.