Tea House Conversations

Kimora Lee Simmons of Baby Phat is in town to visit Racquel at Ni'Chalets.  Racquel wanted her to meet Lena, as an up and coming designer.  It's Monday and the three of them are meeting for tea at the tea house.

Racquel is running a little late, so Lena is taking the opportunity to pick Kimora's brain.

"I'm so excited to be able to talk to you in person.  What is the best advice you can give as a new designer?"  (Lena)

"My best advice would be to never take no for an answer.  People are very quick to say no, even when you are talented.  They feel they have to break your spirit.  Just stay strong and keep moving forward."  (Kimora)

"I know all about being told no.  Fashion designing is my dream, so I'm prepared to go the distance.  I love that you are able to be a great business woman, and a fantastic mom all at the same time.  How on earth do you do it?"  (Lena)

"My children are everything to me.  They are the reason why I'm so driven in business.  It wouldn't make sense to neglect them in the process.  So I just do my best to include them in every aspect of my life."  (Kimora)

"Racquel.  It's about time you joined us.  Sit.  I was just telling your friend Lena how cutthroat the fashion business is."  (Kimora)

"Well, I hope you don't scare her off."  (Racquel)

"Well if she gets scared off by something I say here today, she's not strong enough to be in this business."  (Kimora)

Meanwhile, in the tea room next door, are Tina and Celia.  They stopped to have lunch after leaving Nikki's office.

Tea and lunch have been delivered.  Tina has been anxious to bring up Darius and decides to take the plunge.

"So what on earth was going on with you and Darius back there?"  (Tina)

"I don't know what came over me!  I just never expected to see him again.  So when I did I guess I just lost myself for a minute.  He looked even better than I remember."  (Celia)

"The way you were acting, I would have thought you guys became members of the mile-high club....together.  You didn't did you?"  (Tina)

"Oh Tina."  Celia chuckles.  "Of course not.   But I'd be lying if I said it didn't cross my mind."  (Celia)

"Celia!"  (Tina)

"What?  A hot, young, tenderoni showed some interest.  I just showed a little interest back.  I'm older.  I'm not dead."  (Celia)

Tina shakes her head and starts shaking salt on her salad.  

There's an uncomfortable pause in the conversation.

"Did I do something wrong?"  (Celia)

"No, but Nikki is my friend and I have to admit I was a little embarrassed by what happened in her office today."  (Tina)

"You are a grown woman, so you are free to do whatever you see fit.  I don't pass judgment.  I just wished whatever happened between you and Darius had stayed out of Nikki's office.  Now I'm going to feel awkward when I see her and the last thing I need, while planning my wedding is more tension."  (Tina)

"I really am sorry.  Would it help if I called her and apologized?"  (Celia)

"I don't know if that will help or hurt.  Maybe we should just let it go for the time being."  (Tina)

"How's your salad?"  (Celia)

"A little salty."  (Tina)

"Lena, I wish you all the best.  And remember, be fabulous in everything you do."  (Kimora)

"I wish I didn't have to run, but I promised the kids I would only be gone for two days.  If you are ever in my neck of the woods, stop by."  (Kimora)

"Thanks so much for everything."  (Lena)

The Kimora Lee Simmons doll was borrowed from my 7 yr old neighbor.  I am so jealous that she has a Kimora doll and I don't.  That's why Kimora had to fly right back out, because I only borrowed her for the day.