My long-range forecast -- chapter 5
This is chapter five of my first story on Nifty. I have more chapters written and I look forward to any suggestions, constructive criticms or positive feedback you have about the story. Please send information to cjwilson328@aol.com. For those if you who have already reached out to me - my thanks! I'm working your ideas into future storylines.
I hope you enjoy this chapter! As you read this chapter, think back to your first job. Did you get lucky as CJ on your first job? Chapter 6 brings up an interesting conversation between CJ and Wally.
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Wally and I stayed at the pool for about three hours. I checked my phone and saw an email from my cousin Laura. She set up a skype call for 6:30 pm which was about one hour away.
Wally and I adjourned to the condo. He got a change of clothes and came back to my place for a shower. Once again, we enjoyed the oversized shower together. Before I knew it, we had spent over thirty minutes in the shower all of the time caressing, fondling and enjoying each other's muscular physiques. We exited the shower and dried each other off. We each changed and exited to the main living area.
I got my laptop and placed it on the living room coffee table. I was ready to go to access the skype link. Wally fixed us each an ice tea and we waited for the call. I clicked on the link, and soon UD, Aunt Sally and my cousins appeared on the screen.
I started the conversation saying "Hi everyone, good to see you all! For all of you ladies, this is my neighbor Anthony Walters or Wally as he prefers. UD has already had the pleasure of meeting Wally as well as naming a drink after him." My cousins were all giddy, giggling and stumbling over their words. I can only think what was going through their teenage minds as they gawked at my handsome boyfriend. They fired a number of questions at me and Wally, which we answered. The youngest Laura said "you two look like you got some sunshine today." I replied "yes, we ended up spending the afternoon at the pool."
UD spoke up and said "How are you two, and did you make it back to St Pete Beach without any incidents?"
Wally and I both nodded our heads yes. I said "we're fine UD. The happy hour drink here today is a blueberry gin and tonic. If you have not tried it on your bar menu, I suggest you get the receipe from the mixologist extrordinaire here and try it out. UD you look exhausted. How did things go today?"
UD replied "it's been a long day for me, and I bet you two are ready to crash as well? Investigators spent most of the day at the restaurant sifting through the remains. It does appear that the electrical firm who did the work in the kitchen may be at fault. We'll know more through the week. It will be a mess to resolve, and I'm meeting with my lawyer tomorrow morning to inform him of everything in case I need to take this to court." Wally surprised me and jumped in with a question directed at UD. He said "UD, I have been involved in a number of those contractor liability suits. If I can offer any advice please just reach out. Also, is it true that you're changing the name of the restaurant to Wally's Sunset Pleasure once you rebuild?" UD cracked up and said "thanks Wally. You don't know how much I needed that laugh tonight!"
Aunt Sally spoke up and said "Enough about the restaurant. Wally, Dean told me what all you have done for CJ and him. I cannot thank you enough for all of your sincere gestures." Wally replied "no problem, Sally. I'm glad I have been able to help out. It's been a pleasure to get to know UD and CJ, and I hope to meet you and the girls later this summer?"
Sally said "yes, we've already decided to plan a trip down in early to mid August if our schedules coincide. The girls start school on August 20th, but I hope we can work out some dates since we have two important birthdays to celebrate." I blushed and said "perfect that will give me a month to make sure I'm at the top of my broadcasting skills! Aunt Sally, please don't worry about my birthday. You and UD have done so much for me already. I've got a great start down here, and don't need anything else." Sally replied and said, "I wasn't talking about your birthday CJ. I've got to spoil Wally for his birthday since he has done so much for you and UD. I'll also admit I'm craving both of his drinks right now! Remember son, it's not always about you!" We all had a chuckle on that.
I took the conversation back and said "I picked up all of my suits today, and set up my meeting with Bailey the station GM. We're meeting tomorrow at 10:00 am for the video shots. He said there has been an interesting turn of events at the station and that I should be pleased with his news tomorrow." UD replied saying "any idea on what that means CJ?" I said "no, none at this time. He just shared that he hopes I will be as happy as he is with the recent developments. He told me not to worry about it and that all is very good. After we get my video shots and welcome interview done, he wants to take me to lunch."
Aunt Sally said "this sounds good for you CJ, I'm sure everything is going to be fine." Wally added "I've been trying to tell him that this afternoon Sally. Who knows, maybe he's going to be the chief meteorologist at the station?" I cracked up at Wally's comments and said "I feel everything is going to be fine. I'll let you all know tomorrow how it goes."
UD spoke back up and said "You got this CJ, it's all going to work out in your favor. Just make sure you keep crossing the to-do items off the list."
I grinned and said "I will keep it up to date UD. Thanks again for helping me with it."
UD said "Guys I hate to cut this short, but I am exhausted. Can we set up a call for the same time tomorrow night?" I said "that sounds good UD. Laura, please send me the link and we'll talk to everyone tomorrow at 6:30 pm." After that everyone waved and said good night to us.
I shut the laptop down and said "well you have met the whole family now except for the grandparents. Do you want to run away now?" Wally smiled at me and said "no way stud muffin. I'm here for the long haul with you. Honestly, I have not felt that welcome in a long time by any family. I'll leave you alone tomorrow for the call so you can share the news personally with UD, Sally and the girls." I grabbed the back of his neck, turned his face to me and said "absolutely not! You'll be on the call with me sharing my news." Wally smiled at me and said "are you sure?" I replied "I am sure about the call, I'm sure about us and you are the best thing that has happened to me in my life."
I got up and headed to the kitchen to make us some dinner. Wally said "no kitchen duties tonight. Let's go down to the beach and get some dinner and drinks. We'll come back here and go to bed then. I don't know about you, but I'm going to hit the sack fairly early tonight." I replied "that sounds great. Can we go to the place you took UD and I? I liked it and the food was great." Wally said "yes, that is where I was thinking. Let's roll and get back here so I can cuddle with you all night long."
The morning came way to early as Wally's phone alarm went off. He got up and went to the bathroom. When he came back into the bedroom he said "come on CJ, let's go work out." I propped myself up on the pillows and said "okay, let me go to the bathroom and get changed."
Wally and I finished up in the gym around 7:30 am. I asked him if he wanted any breakfast, and he said "let me run over and get some protein shake mix. How does that sound to you with some fresh fruit in it?" I replied "sounds great. I won't be filled up then for lunch with Bailey."
We finished our shakes and he changed into his work clothes. As he was leaving, he looked at me and said "I'm with you today, but you got this CJ Skinner!" I smiled, gave him a big kiss and said "I know handsome. You gave me enough reinforcement yesterday to realize that whatever news I hear today, it will be good. You have a great day today." He replied back "it's nice to have someone wish me a good day in the morning. I'm going to get used to this real fast." With that, he opened the door and went to the elevator. I watched him walk to his truck and waved at him as he left the parking lot. I cannot believe that my massive hunk of man is such a romantic at heart with statements like "he is going to get used to being wished a good morning everyday." I lost myself in thought envisioning the future with our love growing for each other each day.
I did my morning routine and got ready for my meeting with Bailey. I decided to go semi-casual choosing a light blue shirt, tan slacks and a navy-blue sports jacket. I finished off the look with a yellow tie that contained a paisley pattern. I put my brown loafers on and went to the kitchen. I had about 30 minutes to get to the station, so I decided to leave and get there early. I got down to the jeep, put the top down and headed out for downtown St. Petersburg. I arrived at the station guest lot 15 minutes later, and decided to leave the top down since it was a beautiful morning.
I went into the lobby and greeted the receptionist. I said "Hello, I'm CJ Skinner and I have an appointment with Bailey Stauffer at 10:00 am. She said "oh yes, Bailey told me he was expecting you this morning. I understand you are the new weatherman joining us?" I replied "yes, I am. I'm so excited to get started with the new job." She asked me to have a seat and informed Bailey that I was here.
A few minutes later Bailey came into the reception area and greeted me with a warm reception. He asked "were you able to sleep last night?" I said "yes, I thought about what you said and realized if you told me, it was good news, I have nothing to worry about." He smiled and said "good, I'm glad to hear it. Let's get a few logistics out of the way and then we'll go to my office and talk through things." I said "fine with me Bailey, please lead the way."
Bailey first took me to the security station to get my badge set up. He informed the guard to give me full privileges to the station parking lot, the news room, the weather office, all rooms in the news prep area and finally the television studio. I sat down in the chair in front of the camera and gave a smile. The picture turned out good for me as I sometimes show an awkward smile in photos. A few minutes later my badge was set up and the security guard handed it to me. He said "welcome aboard CJ. If I can assist you with any questions, or you get lost in the mazes around here just give me a yell." I saw his name tag said Jason. I replied "thanks Jason, I will do that. I appreciate your help today and look forward to working with you."
Bailey said "okay, let's go back out and move your vehicle to the employee lot to make sure the badge works." I was realizing that Bailey is another planner just like UD.
We got to my jeep and I said "hop in Bailey." He replied "nice wheels! Have you had your jeep long?" I told him it was a graduation gift from my uncle and aunt. Bailey chuckled and said "I wish I had your relatives when I graduated from college." He looked at me and said "first thing to worn you about, the downtown pigeons are always looking for an easy target. If I was you, I'd keep the top up when you're here at the station. Pull out of this lot and turn to the right. At Center Street, take a right-hand turn." I followed his directions, and was soon at the employee lot. I waved my badge at the sensor and the gate opened. Bailey said "great, one item off the list!" I took Bailey's advice and put the roof back on before going into the station with him.
Bailey gave me a tour of the news prep area, the newsroom and my office in the weather annex. The door name plate was already affixed with `CJ Skinner'. Bailey said "if you want me to change that to your stage name just let me know, it's not a problem to change it." I asked him if he had a preference, and he suggested "given that tours do occur through the station you may want to use your stage name." I said "perfect, let's change it to CJ Walters."
Bailey said "CJ Walters. I like the ring and flow of that. Good choice CJ." I smiled and thought to myself `if he only knew the story behind the story.'
Bailey continued and said "I am avoiding staff introductions now as we are preparing for the noon news. I have a meeting set up at 12:45 pm with the entire staff and we'll get you introduced to everyone there. I have to tell you that you already have quite the buzz going. A number of people remember you from your appearance in March. Those people who saw you have been telling other staff members about how you are going to kick ass on our weather reports." I grinned and said "thanks Bailey. I appreciate that stroke on my ego this morning." He replied "stroke on your ego? Hell kid, you are an awesome find. Get used to your new popularity. You're a television star now!"
Bailey took me next to `Big-Wig' lane as he called it. I met the Executive Director of Operations, Sales Director, Operations Officer, Engineering Officer and Community Relations Officer. All of the introductions and conversations went well. The Executive Director of Operations Brad impressed me extensively with his comments. He said "Your March live audition with us was very impressive CJ. You did a fantastic job with it, and it was a no-brainer to make you a job offer on site. Bailey will be telling you more, but you also got the attention of the network affiliate heads. You have a very promising career with us, and I'm so proud to have you join our team." I walked out of Brad's office with my head held high and my chest puffed out. I am going to enjoy working here.
At the end of the lane of offices was Bailey's office. He ushered me in and asked me to take a seat. He said "can I get you anything to drink before we start?" I replied "yes, I'd appreciate some water." Bailey left and I stood up to remove my jacket. I placed my jacket on the back of my chair, and he returned with two bottles of water.
I was shocked when Bailey sat next to me and not behind his desk. This relaxed my nerves even more. Bailey started and said "first let me give you a quick overview of the activities in store for you today." I replied "that sounds great Bailey, fire away!"
He grinned and started in disclosing the day's itinerary. "At 11:00 am, I'll be taking you to our Human Resources Office. The officer is out this week on vacation, but her assistant will be working with you to review your contract and getting your payroll information, residence information and contact information set up. After that is all done, we'll watch the noon news from the viewing booth. At 12:45 we will have a meet and greet session with the entire staff, followed by a welcome CJ lunch in the studio annex."
I smiled and said "you did not need to go to all that trouble Bailey." He said "nonsense, this is a big deal for our television family. We have got a talented, positive, witty individual joining our staff and you deserve the welcome. It's been a long time since we have had a new college graduate join us and we're excited for all of the opportunities which await you. After the meet and greet session and your welcome interview, you're welcome to stay around to talk more with the 5:00 and 11:00 staff. You have already met the chief meteorologist Daniel, but I know the co-anchors want to spend some time with you." I said "not a problem, I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone here at the station."
Bailey changed topics and said "let me get to the real news of the day for you. Are you ready for it?" I smiled and said "I've been anxiously awaiting it for the last 24 hours!"
Bailey started in and said "When you accepted the weekend position in March, I told you that you'd be starting the weekday morning and noon news show to fill in for vacations. I'm happy to tell you that the weekday morning and noon position is now officially yours if you decide to accept it!" I could feel my eyes growing large and said "Bailey are you kidding me? I'm starting out on the morning and noon news shows in a top 20 market for my first job?" He said "yes you are with one correction. As of the last market ratings, the Tampa/St. Petersburg market is number 13, and I hope you are not superstitious about that?" I cracked up and said "no, that does not bother me at all."
He then continued on with specifics about benefits, vacation (which I was now eligible for after October 1 versus January 1), and of course salary. He handed me an envelope and asked me to open it. I immediately focused on the number in front of me which was $85,000 and more than double the previous figure quoted to me for the weekend position. Bailey chimed back in and said "you will be eligible for an annual merit salary increase. In addition, you'll receive bonus awards based on how the station does in performance sweep ratings done twice a year."
Bailey stopped there and asked "do you have any immediate questions of me?" I looked at him and said "yes, I have two immediate questions. First, do you have a hidden candid camera on me? Second, can we take a break I need to use the bathroom?" He laughed at me and said "sure thing CJ. The bathroom is down the hall to the left." I apologized and said "sorry Bailey, this took me by surprise and I need to release some of my protein shake from this morning." He looked at me and said "no problem, take your time and come back when you're finished up."
I went to the bathroom and left out a huge piss which had been building up. I felt much better and returned to his office. When I returned, he asked "are you okay to continue?" I replied "yes, I am. I just got too excited and needed to release some pent-up liquid."
Bailey laughed and said "it's okay CJ. As you get to know me better, you'll realize that you can say piss around me too!" I laughed and said "at this point I do not have any immediate questions for you other than if I will be getting all of this documented for me before I leave today? I also told him verbally that I'm going to accept the offer." Bailey said "yes, you'll have all of this information written up. All you will need to do is sign it for us before you start. I'm so pleased that you're already telling me you are accepting the offer."
Bailey continued on and said "let me add one more log to the fire for you. Your March broadcast was shared with the network executives and you made quite the impression on a number of individuals. When the network needs a southeastern weather update on the national news, you will be doing the live broadcasts representing the southeastern broadcasting area." I looked at him and asked "does that mean I will be covering hurricane updates, severe storm outbreaks and other weather items impacting the southeast United States?" Bailey smiled and said "that's exactly what it means. If the network big boys like what they see, you'll get bonuses for your reporting as well." I pushed my hair back and said "wow Bailey, I did not expect all this today." He said "I know CJ. I should have shared this with you over a call but I wanted to see your reactions personally versus hearing them."
I jumped up and shook Bailey's hand. I felt like giving him a chest bump, but did not want to go too far since it was our first business meeting together. I said "Bailey, thank you for the job offer you have made and all the confidence you have in me. I promise to do my best and I will not let you down. I'd like to ask how this all came about?"
Bailey gave me a big grin and said "I know you're going to kick ass for me here. The weather anchor who has the job now informed us in late May that she is accepting a job offer in San Francisco which is a good move for her, and creates this beautiful opportunity for you. Her last day is June 23, and if possible, will you consider starting on Monday June 26th versus waiting until July 1?"
I told Bailey "That is no problem at all as I have a good start on my wardrobe, and my condo is shaping up nicely. I'm ready to get to work Bailey! Take me and teach me everything you can about the broadcast industry."
Bailey said "that's what I was hoping you'd say CJ. Please do me one favor and keep an open line of communication with me? If you are having problems with anything or suddenly find yourself with a new job opportunity talk to me first? Finding you has been like finding a diamond in the rough for me. At this point in my career, I needed this to happen. I will teach you everything I know about broadcasting and I promise to make you the biggest star of the Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg television market."
I again shook Bailey's hand and said "where do we go next boss, I'm ready to begin!"
He cracked up and said "there is one big item I need your help on. We need to find a replacement for you on the weekend shows. If you have any college friends who are still looking for a job, get me their contact information. We're also looking for another sports anchor, a couple of general news reporters and some production staff team members." Bailey looked at his watch and said "okay, you're due in human resources now. I'll take you there and come back here once you're finished. We'll watch the noon news together and then I'll get you introduced to the entire staff."
I know I was on cloud nine the rest of the day. It was good to watch the noon news and see my predecessor in action. I told myself to watch her mannerisms and see if they can help me as well. She's obviously doing something right take make a move to a larger market. The clock struck 12:45, and Bailey had everyone gather in the studio. He told me to stand next to him on his right-hand side.
Bailey opened the meeting and said "thanks everyone for taking time out of your busy schedule. It's not often that we get together like this and that needs to change. So, as of today hold me to my words and we'll be doing more of these sessions in the future. As you have all heard Melissa Peterson has accepted a job in the number six market of San Francisco. I hate to see Melissa leave, but at the same time it's an excellent opportunity for her to take advantage of. Melissa you will always be considered part of our family here in St Petersburg and I want to thank you for all of your dedicated contributions you have made here at the station."
Bailey stopped speaking and there was a thunderous round of applause for Melissa. Bailey continued and said "we've chosen a replacement for Melissa who I'm introducing today. Some of you already met him in March when he knocked our socks off with an impromptu live audition on the 6 and 11 weekend show. It's my extreme honor to introduce CJ Skinner to all of you who's filling the morning and noon weather anchor job starting on June 26th. CJ will be using the stage name CJ Walters. Please don't mistake him for an intern. He's a recent college graduate from Ohio and is joining our staff with tremendous energy, and an impressive broadcasting background which started in high school for him. CJ, on behalf of everyone here welcome aboard and to all of you join me in welcoming CJ into our family."
Another huge round of applause was done in my honor. I shook Bailey's hand and he surprised me with a bro-hug on stage. Bailey then said "everyone, lunch is being served in the studio annex. Please go in and help yourself to whatever you like. Please take some time during lunch and introduce yourself to CJ as well as extending your congratulations to Melissa.
Melissa was the first to approach me. It shocked me when she opened her arms and gave me a hug. She said to me "CJ, you are going to love working here. When Bailey calls it a family, trust me it is a family. I do have regrets leaving here as I have always felt comfortable here. I have learned so much though which has allowed me to take a job in a larger market though. The new job also puts me closer to home which I desire. My advice to you is relax and spread your wings here. Learn everything you can from Bailey and the staff, go for your AMS seal of approval, and keep up the great tan. You're going to do well here, I already feel it by witnessing your March audtion."
I replied to Melissa and said "thank you for those kind words and advice. I've already started some online course work at FSU to obtain my AMS seal of approval. I'd like to sit down with you next week if you have some time and review the weather center as well as any tips you can share with me?" Melissa smiled and said "I sure will, just let me know what day you want to get together. It's usually a 'down time' for me between 8:00 and 11:00 in the mornings."
I spent the next few hours receiving greetings from everyone at the station. Lunch was very nice and a good way to meet people.
Eventually the morning shift exited the station and the evening staff got busy with the 5:00 pm broadcast. I still felt like I was drifting in the clouds when Bailey came up to me and said "CJ let's get your welcome interview done and then you're free to leave for the day."
The interview went well. Betty, the Community Relations Officer did the interview. She complimented me on my wardrobe saying it looked very nice. The questions were easy to answer and about 20 minutes later we finished up. Bailey then asked me to change into station polo shirt. The camera man got various shots of me looking over weather maps, talking to the chief meteorologist and working with other staff members.
Bailey loaded me up with plenty of station clothing. Polos, dress shirts, ball caps and a lightweight rain jacket soon occupied a large station duffle bag. He cracked up and said "these swimsuits did not go over as well as I expected them too. Do you want one of these as well?" I looked and the swimsuit was multi-colored on one leg and the back. The station logo was on the other leg. "I said sure, and if you can spare two I'll take them." He added the two swim suits to the bag. I zipped the bag up and grabbed the handles. I had all my clothing and I was exhausted.
As we walked to my jeep I said to Bailey "thank you for making this a truly special day in my life which I will never forget. I'm going to call a few friends concerning the open position, and I'll be contacting the Radio and Television Department Chairperson at my college concerning all of the openings. Can I meet up with you next week when I come back in to sign my contract?" Bailey responded "sounds perfect CJ. You take care and go out for a celebration dinner tonight."
Bailey went back into the station as I placed the bag of clothing in the back seat. I jumped in the driver's seat and took my phone out to text Wally. I told him "All is done and everything is absolutely wonderful. I'll share all the details with you, UD and the family on the call tonight. I need to make a few stops and I'll see you at the condo when you get off work."
Wally must have been on top of his phone waiting for me. He replied back immediately saying "Wow stud, I was beginning to worry about you. Okay, I will be there around 5:30 pm. I'm so proud of you CJ and cannot wait to hear your big announcement. I can't believe the new weatherman in town is all mine. I love you!" I texted back with plenty of heart emojis to him and said "I love you also."