Marcus Donovan sat at the head of the conference table, his family's business empire spread out before him like a map of their legacy. His father, Lincoln , cleared his throat, signaling the start of the meeting.
"Marcus, we need to discuss your future role in the company," Lincoln began, his tone firm but measured.
Marcus nodded, his mind and heart ready for the challenges ahead.
"And that future starts with settling down," his mother, Elizabeth, chimed in, a hint of warmth creeping into her voice. "Meeting the right partner, starting a family...you know, Marcus, you're not getting any younger. Also, the last time we discussed this was a year ago. You promised to find one before the year runs out,"
Marcus raised an eyebrow, his instincts sensing where this was headed.
"Which brings us to the lovely Sophia," his father continued, a smile spreading across his face. "The daughter of our esteemed business partner, Richard Langley. A brilliant match, if I do say so myself."
Marcus's gaze shifted to the young woman standing by the window, her eyes fixed on him with a gentle smile. Sophia Langley. He had met her a few times before, but never really paid much attention.
She was...sweet, he supposed, with a heart of gold and a quick wit. But marry her? Have children with her? The thought sent a shiver down his spine.
To be honest, he doesn't want to be with a woman. He still enjoys his one night stands and doesn't want to be tied down to one woman.
"Sophia is an amazing person, Marcus," his mother said, her voice filled with conviction. "Kind, intelligent, and dedicated. She'll make a wonderful partner for you, both in business and in life. Don't forget you'll clock thirty in three years."
Marcus nodded politely, his mind racing with excuses. But before he could speak, Sophia herself stepped forward, her eyes shining with warmth.
"Marcus, I know this may seem sudden, but I truly believe we could make a great team. In business, and...in life. I've always admired your passion and dedication to your family's legacy. I'd be honored to stand by your side and help you build a future together." Her voice sounded sweet as usual.
Her genuine smile and sparkling eyes had always kept Marcus on his toes. He doesn't hate her, but he strongly dislikes her. Most times, he felt she acted fake.
However, Marcus couldn't deny the sincerity in Sophia's voice, the kindness in her eyes. She was everything his family wanted for him - a perfect partner, a loving wife, a devoted mother to his future children. But as he looked at her, he couldn't shake off the feeling that he was betraying himself, his own desires and dreams.
"Sophia, I...I need some time to think," Marcus stammered with a dark voice, his mind racing with conflicting emotions.
Sophia's smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered, her eyes never leaving him. "Of course, Marcus. I understand. But know that I'm here for you, whenever you're ready."
As the meeting adjourned and the family members began to disperse, Marcus felt a sense of relief wash over him. He needed time to clear his head, to figure out what he truly wanted. But as he turned to leave, his father's voice stopped him.
"Marcus, remember, this isn't just about you. This is about the future of our family's legacy. Don't let your personal feelings get in the way of what's best for this company."
Marcus nodded, "Don't worry about that. Currently, I don't desire any woman. Sophia isn't even my type," he shook his head in disappointment and walked out.
The weight of his family's expectations settled heavily on his shoulders. He knew he had to make a decision soon, but as he walked out of the conference room, he couldn't shake off the feeling that he wanted to meet a particular person… to see her.
He craved her presence.
As Marcus left the office building, he couldn't help but feel trapped. His family's legacy, their business, their expectations concerning his future - it was all suffocating him. He needed a break, a chance to clear his head and figure out what he truly wanted.
He walked to his car, his mind racing with thoughts of Emily. She was the complete opposite of Sophia - fiery, independent, and unapologetically herself. He couldn't help but wonder what Emily would think if she saw him before her doorsteps.
As he drove away from the office, Marcus found himself heading towards Emily's apartment. He needed to see her, to talk to her, to be around her. She was the only one who made him feel alive, the only one who truly understood him.
When he arrived at her apartment, Emily answered the door with a surprised look on her face. "Marcus, what are you doing here?"
"I needed to see you," he said, his voice raw with emotion. "I need to talk to you about something."
Emily's expression softened, and she stepped aside to let him in. "What is it, Marcus?" She managed to ask, wondering what he was doing before her.
Marcus took a deep breath, unsure of how to begin. But as he looked into Emily's eyes, he knew he could trust her with his life.
"Nothing. I just wanted to see you," he whispered, his voice back to his unfazed controlled expression.
Emily frowned. "You can't be here. We're not supposed to meet each other again. This should be our agreement," she ran a hand through her hair and held both sides of her hips.
Marcus felt a lump form in his throat as he looked at Emily. "You can't tell me where I should be and where I shouldn't be," his lips curled into a smirk.
Emily drew in a deep breath. "I'm sorry but I'll be out soon to get groceries. My friend stepped out a few minutes ago and she might not like your presence," she swallowed and darted her eyes between her door and Marcus.
"Thank you, Emily," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Just talking to you makes me feel better. You always know how to make me see things clearly."
Marcus tucked his hands into his pants pocket and smiled. He gave her a flirtatious wink and walked out of the door.
Emily's knees weakened. She slumped into the couch and rubbed her head in deep thoughts.