Daisy Inc. - a short story of a young girl losing everything and taking control to get it back

Daisy Inc.

Short Story/Television Series Concept

By Chris Vermillion

Daisy Inc. - a story of a young girl losing everything and taking control to get it back

In the fall of 1984, Michael and Julia Decker crossed paths in a college entrepreneurship class, immediately connecting over their shared ambition to revolutionize the footwear industry. Their startup, Decker Shoes, quickly found its identity in blending comfort, style, and innovative materials, swiftly capturing the attention of fashion-savvy youth across America.

By 1997, Decker Shoes had skyrocketed to global fame. Investors flocked, drawn by the brand's authenticity and stellar growth, cementing Michael and Julia’s financial security. That year brought another joyful revelation: Julia discovered she was pregnant. On a crisp New Year's morning in 1998, Daisy entered the world, instantly becoming the center of her parents' universe.

The first seven years of Daisy's life were a whirlwind of international travel, cultural exploration, and family adventures. Daisy was naturally curious, soaking in her parents' entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and warmth. Julia and Michael taught Daisy kindness, generosity, and courage, instilling in her values deeper than material success.

But in 2004, the Deckers' idyllic world faced a moral earthquake. A shocking exposé revealed their beloved company had shifted manufacturing overseas to facilities exploiting child labor. Disturbed and driven by a profound sense of responsibility, Michael and Julia immediately planned a comprehensive tour of their international operations to address and rectify the issue firsthand.

The Decker's both lost somewhere over a vast ocean

In early 2005, Daisy watched tearfully as her parents departed from Los Angeles bound for Singapore. Tragically, mid-flight, mechanical failures plunged their aircraft into the vast Pacific Ocean. Rescue operations yielded nothing, and heartbroken, Daisy eventually moved in with her Aunt Rachel and Uncle Darren Turner (Uncle DT) in a cozy but modest home in suburban Atlanta, Georgia.

Transitioning from the glamour of her previous life to a typical middle-class neighborhood was initially daunting. Yet Daisy quickly adapted, though her lively younger cousin Tyler seemed determined to invade every ounce of her personal space. Their sibling-like rivalry quickly blossomed into affectionate chaos.

At school, Daisy found herself navigating the turbulent waters of early adolescence. She formed a close-knit friendship with Macy, Tanya, and Meg—girls who, beneath their bubbly exterior, each held deeper struggles and dreams. Macy, aspiring fashion influencer; Tanya, secretly passionate about environmental activism; Meg, whose academic brilliance was matched only by her crippling self-doubt. Together, they supported Daisy's quiet strength and determination, unaware at first of the corporate empire she now inherited.

Curiosity burning brighter than grief, Daisy sought out Garson Bennett, a trusted senior liaison and close friend of her parents. Garson, stoic yet warm-hearted, became Daisy’s mentor, sharing candid stories of Michael and Julia’s values, aspirations, and the boldness of their final mission. Daisy vowed to complete what her parents started, convincing her reluctant but supportive Aunt and Uncle to permit a journey to Singapore with Garson.

On the long-haul flight, Garson detailed Michael and Julia’s legacy beyond business: friendships with prominent athletes, musicians, and celebrities who admired the Deckers' integrity. Garson emphasized that despite their global success, Daisy had always been their top priority.

Singapore proved eye-opening and heart-wrenching. Daisy's compassion and courage shone brightly as she confronted stark realities in factory after factory, engaging directly with workers whose suffering was hidden behind polished corporate facades. Driven by resolve and moral clarity, Daisy captured extensive photographic and documentary evidence with Garson’s help, determined to confront Decker Shoes’ complacent board of directors in London.

Photography by Chris V - Fictional location of Decker Shoe's

At corporate headquarters, Daisy’s passionate, heartfelt presentation left the executives stunned. Her youth juxtaposed with her moral authority sparked immediate change. Daisy’s reforms improved pay, established rigorous ethical labor standards, and demanded corporate accountability. Overnight, Daisy became a media sensation—"Daisy Inc." splashed across magazine covers, her story captivating audiences worldwide.

Fame brought challenges: balancing corporate responsibilities with school, friendships, family life, and public scrutiny. Still, Daisy remained grounded, fiercely determined not to lose sight of her parents’ values. Underlying her tireless activism was an unshakeable belief that her parents might still be alive, fueling a secret side investigation led by Garson and her friends.

Throughout the series, Daisy’s adventures are vividly captured through music and photography, blending soulful melodies reflecting her emotional journey, and compelling visuals documenting her impact around the globe. Her life oscillates between everyday teenage realities—homework, friendships, and family dynamics—and the extraordinary pressures of running a billion-dollar empire, constantly shadowed by little Tyler's affectionate mischief.

Ultimately, Daisy Inc. tells an inspiring coming-of-age story about bravery, resilience, ethical leadership, and the timeless quest to reconcile personal loss with public responsibility—showing that changing the world can begin at any age.