The historic grandeur of The Empress Hotel in Victoria welcomed Joe and Nelly as they stepped into its timeless charm. The scent of fresh flowers filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of tea and scones from the iconic afternoon tea service. The hotel’s regal ambiance seemed fitting for the conversation Joe had planned.
They found a quiet spot in the tea lounge, overlooking the Inner Harbour. As they settled into their chairs, Joe leaned forward, a warm smile on his face.
“Nelly,” he began, “do you know why I call you the Empress of Entertainment?”
She raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. “I’m intrigued, Joe. Enlighten me.”
Joe gestured around the room. “This place—The Empress Hotel—it’s a symbol of elegance, history, and influence. And that’s you, Nelly. You’ve built a career that’s timeless, crossing genres, languages, and cultures. You don’t just make music; you create experiences that resonate with people on a deeper level.”
Nelly chuckled, a faint blush creeping into her cheeks. “You’re laying it on thick, Joe.”
“I’m just getting started,” he replied with a grin. “Think about it. You’ve mastered reinvention. From Whoa, Nelly! to Loose to Mi Plan, you’ve shown the world that you can’t be boxed in. That’s what makes you an empress—you rule over a vast kingdom of creativity, and you do it with grace and authenticity.”
She sipped her tea, her eyes sparkling. “You’re making me sound like royalty.”
“You are,” Joe insisted. “You’ve inspired millions, not just with your music but with your story. You’ve stayed true to yourself, even when the industry tried to mold you into something else. That’s not just admirable—it’s powerful.”
Nelly leaned back, her gaze drifting to the harbor. “I’ve never thought of it that way. I just… do what feels right.”
“And that’s why you’re the Empress,” Joe said. “You lead with your heart. You’ve shown the world that entertainment isn’t just about fame or money—it’s about connection, about making people feel seen and heard. Whether it’s a dance track that gets people moving or a ballad that brings them to tears, you have this incredible ability to touch lives.”
She looked at him, her expression softening. “Thank you, Joe. That means a lot.”
Joe raised his teacup in a toast. “To the Empress of Entertainment. May your reign continue to inspire and uplift.”
Nelly clinked her cup against his, a genuine smile lighting up her face. “And to good friends who remind us of our worth.”
As the afternoon sun bathed the lounge in golden light, the two friends shared stories, laughter, and dreams, the grandeur of The Empress Hotel serving as the perfect backdrop for their royal moment.