CHAPTER 4: THE BARGAIN

Upon awakening the next day, Ava felt her heart race through her chest. She had slept very little, her mind replaying the events of the previous day, the shocking photo, phone call from Damien, this crazy proposal, and her unwise agreement. Her agreement with the devil has to be followed by a responsibility.

Looking at the clock, its hands mockingly reminding her of her impending meeting with Damien. The time she had to prepare was less than an hour. She rushed to get dressed, then changed into her most presentable outfit , a plain black dress that she hope would strike a balance between professional and friendly. She applied a touch of makeup, more out of habit than vanity, then pulled her unruly red hair into a neat ponytail.

While waiting for Damien's driver, she paced her small apartment with nervousness. Contrary to her expectations, she was completely unaware of what type of individual Damien Sterling would be during this meeting. She had met him just once, at the gala, and their exchange was short and shallow. His charm, his presence of authority and dominance, had made her feel simultaneously comfortable and unsettled, a mix of apprehension and assurance.

A knock on the door startled her, she leapt forward with her heart racing. Her body sank within seconds. She breathed deeply, composing herself, and then opened the door.

The doorway was occupied by an enormous sinister man in a dark suit. "Miss Rossi?" he asked politely.

With a slightly shaken voice, Ava stated: "Yes, of course.".

"Mr. Sterling asked me to guide you to his office," he mentioned, stepping aside to let her go by. As Ava nodded, she felt a blend of excitement and fear in her stomach. She exited her apartment, shut the door, and then followed the man to a stylish black car stationed on the street. When she jumped into the backseat, her abrupt fear was evident. Her journey into  a world of riches and influence that was simultaneously captivating and frightening was one step closer to the surface,. But as soon as the car veered off the curb, she took a deep breath and remind herself of her resolve. She Ava Rossi, a gifted artist with strong spirit of independence. Neither Damien Sterling nor anyone else had the power to dictate her destiny.

The polished black car effortlessly cruised through the city's streets, in complete opposition to Ava' rickety bus that carelessly navigated its way around congested avenues. The sight of the sky was perplexing due to all the towering buildings that adorned it, symbolizing success and authority, which appeared quite distinct from her modest studio flat. Ava's breath stopped in her throat as soon as the car came to halt. In front of her loomed the Sterling Tower, a gleaming structure of glass and steel that ruled the skyline. It represented Damien Sterling's empire, a reflection of his drive and achievements.When Ava exited the car, she was hit by a sense of intimidation.She had become accustomed to the cramped chaos of her studio, the familiar scent of paint and turpentine,the comforting mess of art objects. She found herself in a world of sparklers and polished chrome, an unfamiliar place introduced to her by Damien Sterling.

Upon arriving at the grand entrance, a doorman in uniform offered her a polite salute.A large space was apparent, featuring high ceilings, intricately crafted chandeliers, and a thoughtfully chosen modern art mosaic.

She approached the reception desk, where an elegant and sophisticated woman welcomed her."Miss Rossi?" She asked , her voice was clear and professional.

Ava answered with a soft yet slightly shaking voice, saying "Yes."

"Mr. Sterling is expecting you.We ask that you take the elevator to reach the top floor," she stated, pointing to a row of elevators.

As she nodded, Ava sensed her heart racing in her chest. She entered the elevator and pressed the button for the upper level. As the lift ascended, her enthusiasm was mixed with a feeling of unease She was set to meet Damien Sterling in his own company, at the heart of his empire. She was unsure of what to anticipate, what type of man he might be in this setting.

After exiting the elevator, Ava walked into an extensive reception area. The doors were opened. She was received by a cheerful young lady. "Miss Rossi? I am Mr.Sterling’s personal assistant, Emily.  Please come this way. ".

Following Emily, Ava strolled down a long corridor, taking in the stylish modern furnishings and impressive contemporary artwork. The pair arrived at a set of large double doors, and Emily's knock was gentle. “Mr. Sterling? Miss Rossi is here”.She said.

 'Let her in.’ A response followed.

Emily opened the door and Ava walked into Damien Sterling's office. The area was spacious and had windows that provided a magnificent view of the city. A mahogany desk was where Damien sat facing away from her, looking out at the city skyline. He seemed more formidable in this setting, displaying his strength and power.

When Ava was facing him, he made sure to catch up with her. He had a toned and muscular physique that was more visually appealing when seen from close quarters. His eyes were a deep blue-grey color that was visible to her. He had a slim build with broad shoulders and dark suit, and his hair was beautifully groomed.

“Miss Rossi,” he said in a calm, subtle voice. “Please, take a seat.”

With a nod, Ava was filled with fear as she agreed. Damien evaluated her looks, observing her plain dress and her slightly disheveled appearance. An hint of amusement appeared in his eyes, yet his expression is still.

"I trust your journey was smooth." His voice was both polite and distant

“Yes, thank you.”Ava's voice was a little murky when she replied

"Good," Damien said, his tone brisk. "Shall we get started with the task at hand?"

 Ava nodded off steeling herself for the negotiation ahead. The fact that Damien Sterling was an expert in business, she knew it would be difficult to beat him. To avoid any potential financial losses, she had to use her words with great care and choose between a cautious approach.

With his gaze fixed on hers, Damien leaned forward. "I am certain you comprehend our situation, Miss Rossi.The confusing photo has sparked media speculation, leaving both our reputations at stake ".

With a nod to her chest, Ava was filled with fear and exhilarated. "Yes, I understand."

Damien remained composed, saying, "Good. Let's clarify our goals.My objective is to reclaim my image and convince my investors that I am not the playboy the media portrays me to be. And you… With eyes dimming, he paused “need financial stability.”

Ava's cheeks flushed. He was right, of course. She was in dire need of money, and this fake engagement could be her salvation. However, she was unwilling to let him exploit her vulnerability..

"I have my own goals and aspirations Mr. Sterling,I'm not just some pawn in your game", She spoke voice firm

“Miss Rossi” Damien smiled as he responded. “I admire your spirit. But let's be realistic, your situation is dire, and this agreement could be beneficial for both parties.”

Ava paused to compose herself, taking in some air." Okay Mr. Sterling. I'm willing to play along, but like I said yesterday, I have my own conditions.”

With curiosity, Damien raised an eyebrow. "I am listening." he added.

“Firstly,” Ava's words were unwavering as she stated “I want a contract that clearly states the terms of our agreement I want to know the exact responsibilities that I must fulfill, and what I'm getting in return.”

Damien nodded, his expression not very expressive. “A preliminary agreement has been drafted by my legal team. Send me an email and I'll send you the file.”

“Secondly,” Ava said with her voice becoming more confident as she spoke.

“I want to maintain my independence. I am committed to maintaining my own life and career, which I will always cherish.I'm not going to become your trophy girlfriend, attending every social event and smiling for the cameras. "

"I understand Miss Rossi," Damien said with a smile. “I admire your ambition. But some certain public appearances, interviews, and other events necessitate your availability. The trick is to make us appear as a loving couple.

"I can handle that," Ava acknowledged with a nod as she realized the need to maintain the charade. “But I won't be at your beck and call.”

Thirdly,if at any point I feel like this is spiraling, I can walk away."

"That would be unwise," he murmured, but he nodded again. "Understood."

"Third—we need rules. Boundaries."

His lips quirked. "Rules and boundaries with a fake fiancée? That should be fun."

Ava ignored the way her stomach flipped at his amused expression. "I mean it."

After a brief stare, he replied:"Okay, that works." "Do you have anything else to add?"

Ava retreated and proceeded to inquire about access to her resources. “ I need a studio space, art supplies and the freedom to  pursue my art without any financial constraints.

Damien's gaze lit up with amusement. "You are a skilled negotiator, Miss Rossi.". I like that. Consider it done. Access to the most superior studios and resources is guaranteed. "

Ava grinned, her eyes sparkling with pride. Her rivalry against Damien Sterling, the business kingpin, had been strong. She had made the decision herself, and she had done it.

Damien extended his hand across the desk to shake Ava, “Then we have a deal, Miss Rossi?”

For a brief moment, Ava looked back at his gaze with uncertainty. She detected a faintness of vulnerability beneath the controlled exterior, revealing only hints of the man. With her fingers crossed, she grasped his hand.. With a grip that was both firm and warm, she felt shivers on her spine.

“We've a deal, Mr. Sterling” She spoke maintaining a steady tone.

With a wide smile, Damien glanced back at Ava and she caught sight of the man beneath the cold surface, who was both fierce and fearless, yet also heartbroken and tender. Although she had come to terms with the devil, her intuition was apprehensive that this devil could be more profound than she initially believed.