"Never allow your past to ruin your future. Never ever hurt others because you were hurt in your past. Always see the good in your past no matter what you've experienced."
- Bella Angel Douglas
Antonio's POV
Two days had passed since I insulted Ms. Parker. Two days of restless nights, of replaying her eyes - sharp, hurt, but controlled. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw it again: the fire beneath her restraint, the way she didn't flinch, didn't shrink.
She was short, yes, but fierce. Beautiful, smart, determined, and philanthropic. I should have studied her more before the meeting. Instead, I trusted Daniel, and impatience took over.
I clenched my jaw, sitting behind my desk, reviewing the plans for the hotels she would design. I couldn't afford to lose this deal. I couldn't let Danny's months of work go to waste, and most importantly, I couldn't ignore the mistake I made.
Sofia deserved the best - and she was the best. Her projects reflected elegance, comfort, and African culture. I could see them becoming landmarks, not just hotels.
I thought of my past: the church-house-rat childhood, parents struggling. I promised my future children a different life. I had sung, acted, built businesses, written books, and hosted a talk show - all paths forged through discipline, determination, and control. I had never relied on luck, never surrendered power.
Daniel arrived early, confirming the meeting - private. No assistants. Just Sofia and me. Perfect.
Sofia's POV
The thought of seeing Antonio again made my pulse quicken. Private. No assistants. I reminded myself: it's just business. I had handled bigger deals.
Fatu helped me prepare - a high ponytail, silver eyeshadow, eyeliner highlighting my cat-like eyes, and nude-red lipstick. Powder for flawless skin. I studied myself in the mirror: the glittering gold-and-silver mermaid gown hugged my curves perfectly, the twelve-inch silver-grey heels adding presence and power.
I admired the craftsmanship and silently thanked Anna and Mena at F & T. They understood me, my style, my confidence.
Prepared early, I left home, bracing for the meeting.
Antonio's POV
Nervous. Rare for me. Hands slightly sweating despite the air conditioning. But I wouldn't let it show. My black tuxedo by F & T fit like armor - sharp, disciplined, commanding.
The Royal Grande Hotel's private room was opulent. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow. A mahogany table dominated the center, carved intricately. Fresh flowers in crystal vases, artwork, and royal-blue curtains framed the scene. Every detail spoke of order, control, and wealth. But none of it mattered until I saw her.
Sofia. Melanin-rich skin glowing, dress shimmering like starlight, cat eyes - one blue, one black - deliberately avoiding mine. Confidence radiated from every movement. Poise, strategy, strength.
I allowed her to speak first.
"Let's get straight to business, can we?" she said, eyebrow arched.
I leaned slightly forward, scanning the room subtly, letting her set the pace while I remained in control. "Of course," I replied.
Her teasing tone made me smirk. I noted every gesture, every nuance. She was playful, sharp, testing boundaries - and I was ready.
"I see impatience in you," she teased.
"Ms. Parker, we're here for business," I said calmly. "But first, I'll fill my belly." I rang for the waiter.
Luke arrived promptly, dressed sharply, noting every detail. I ordered fire rice and chicken for myself. Chocolate cake for her, anticipating her reluctance. Her favorite Japanese noodles and a bottle of red wine - a calculated move, small power in action, observing her reaction without a word. Her eyes widened subtly before she masked it - victory noted.
We ate in quiet efficiency. The contract was signed. The deal done.
As she rose, I extended my hand, gently catching her wrist.
"Please," I said, voice low, controlled. "Can we go out?"
She stiffened. "Why? So you can insult me again?"
I allowed a brief pause, letting the tension linger - observing, commanding, yet sincere. "No. Sofia, I am truly sorry. I meant to apologize properly. That's all."
Her eyes narrowed, silent, evaluating. I let her decide, confident in my presence, steady in my control. The room thrummed with unspoken tension - professional, personal, unresolved - entirely real.
AN: Hi guys!
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Hope you are doing well.
I know this chapter is kinda long.
Do you think she will agree to go out with him?
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