Chapter 4
As I walked into the skyscraper, the first person I saw was the receptionist. She asked me who I’m looking for, and I told her that I have an appointment with Mr. Adrian Charles Montgomery.
So she called his office number and informed him that someone is downstairs for an appointment with him.
“Do I let her up Sir?” she asks him over the phone.
“Yes, let her take the lift so she doesn’t stress herself,” comes the reply.
The receptionist, with a professional smile, points me towards the lift.
"Take this to the Executive Suite," she instructs, her voice echoing slightly in the vast, marble-clad lobby. "Mr. Montgomery's office is on the top floor."
And so, as I step into the lift, I'm immediately enveloped by a sense of grandeur. The interior is a blend of polished steel and glass, reflecting the soft, warm light from the ceiling. The doors close behind me with a soft, reassuring thud, and I press the button for the Executive Suite.
As the lift ascends, I can't help but marvel at the view unfolding before me. Through the glass walls of the lift, the cityscape stretches out in all directions - a sprawling tapestry of lights, buildings, and life. Skyscrapers pierce the sky, their lights twinkling like stars against the twilight. Cars move like tiny, luminescent beetles on the roads below, their headlights casting long, dancing shadows.
I feel a sense of awe as I watch the city shrink beneath me, the buildings becoming smaller and smaller until they resemble a child's playset. The higher I go, the more breathtaking the view becomes. It's a sight to behold, a testament to human ingenuity and ambition.
Finally, the lift slows and comes to a gentle stop. The doors open to reveal a large, elegantly furnished office suite. I step out onto the plush, carpeted floor, taking a moment to compose myself. The receptionist's words echo in my mind, "Mr. Montgomery's office is on the top floor."
I take a deep breath, filling my lungs with the crisp, conditioned air. I can feel my heart pounding in my chest, a mix of anticipation and nervousness. I pause for a moment, gathering my thoughts, before I approach the large, mahogany door bearing the nameplate: Adrian Charles Montgomery, CEO.
With one last deep breath, I raised my hand and knocked.
"Come in," a deep, resonant voice echoed from inside the room. I pushed the door open and stepped inside. To my surprise, I found Mr. Montgomery in the midst of buttoning his shirt.
He had only managed to fasten a few buttons, leaving the rest of his shirt open. I couldn't help but notice the sight; it was unexpected and somewhat disconcerting.
"Please, have a seat," he said, gesturing towards a plush chair in front of his desk. As I moved to sit down, I noticed him hurriedly stuffing a stack of magazines into a drawer. The covers flashed briefly before my eyes, revealing shocking images that made me swallow hard. I couldn't help but wonder what other surprises this meeting had in store.
Mr. Montgomery's behavior was far from what I had expected in such a professional setting. However, I decided not to let it ruffle me. I took a seat, crossed my legs, and waited for him to initiate the conversation.
Despite the unusual start, I was determined to keep this meeting focused on business. After all, I was here for a purpose, and I wasn't going to let anything distract me from it.
As I sat there, waiting for him to start the conversation, I noticed his gaze drifting towards my crossed legs. His mouth hung slightly open, and he seemed to be lost in thought. It was an uncomfortable moment, and I quickly uncrossed my legs, pulling my skirt down a bit.
Clearing my throat, I decided to take the initiative. "Sir, you mentioned that you liked my designs," I began, trying to steer the conversation back to a professional tone. "I did some research on you, and it turns out, you're quite an artist yourself."
His eyes widened slightly, "Oh really? You've looked me up? And what did you find?"
"Well," I continued, "I found that you used to paint a few years back."
"Yes, it's true," he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "I used to paint. I loved the feel of the brush in my hand, the way the colors blended on the canvas. It was a passion, a release. But then, life happened. My father's expectations, the pressure of running a billion-dollar company, it all got in the way. He didn't want his investment to flop, so I had to put my passion aside and focus on the business. That's why I had to abandon my art career."
He paused, his gaze distant. "But I didn't entirely abandon it. I still find ways to keep that part of me alive. Like hosting that art showcase where we met. It's not the same as painting, but it's something."
His gaze softened as he looked at me, his eyes warm and sincere. "I was drawn to you because of your beauty, your works, everything about you is wonderful. The ultimate creator above the sky made you just perfect."
I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks at his words. "Aww, really?" I managed to stammer out, taken aback by his compliment.
Seeing my blush, Adrian continued with his praises. "Your eyes," he said, his voice soft, "they're so beautiful. I can see the creativity in them. It's like looking into a universe of ideas, a galaxy of possibilities. And your smile, it's like that of a goddess, so charming. It lights up your face, makes you even more beautiful. It's captivating." His words, sincere and heartfelt, made me blush even more.
I could feel my cheeks growing warmer as he went on, "I must say, you are supernatural."
"Supernatural?" I asked, taken aback by his choice of words.
"Yes," he replied, "because your type on this earth is rare."
His words left me speechless. I could feel a blush creeping up my neck, and I instinctively reached up to touch the back of my neck, trying to cool the heat that was spreading across my skin. It was clear that this meeting was going to be anything but ordinary.
Chapter 5Noticing Adrian shifting in his chair, I quickly changed the topic. "Have you ever thought about what art can do for our country and the world at large?" I asked, hoping to bring the conversation back to a more professional level.Adrian seemed to snap back to reality at my question. "Well, you can talk more about that," he said, leaning back in his chair. "I think there's a way we can create an outstanding art legacy that people will love."I nodded, encouraged by his response. "That's brilliant. And how do you propose we do that?"Adrian seemed to be listening, but his gaze was distant, as if he was lost in his own thoughts. He nodded and murmured vague agreements to my questions, but it was clear his mind was elsewhere."So, how much are you willing to invest for the start of this project?" I asked, hoping to gauge his commitment to the idea."Yes," he replied absentmindedly, not seeming to realize the oddity of his response.It was then I realized I had been talking to m
Chapter SixAdrian's POVThe alarm clock sprung me out of my sleep. I had struggled to fall asleep, as I had been continually haunted by thoughts of Ella. Yes, I knew it had been awfully out of place to make such early advances at her, but then it couldn't be helped. I felt terribly guilty, as I let my demons resurface yet again. In spite of how hard I tried to suppress my insatiable longings, I found myself being enslaved to them time and again. Being wealthy and powerful made it even worse, as the best of ladies were always falling head over heels for me. Even though I'd had the best of women in San Francisco, there was something about Ella that made me feel incomplete if I didn't have her. She was special. That was the only word I could think of to describe her. My heart was filled with anticipation, as my phone buzzed on the pillow beside me. I reached for it, hoping that it had been Ella trying to remind me about our appointment that morning.“Hello…”All my hopes were dashe
Chapter SevenAdrian's POVIn a moment, my past flashed past me, as I was staring at my ex girlfriend, who had just come through the door. Why did she have to just show up at that point?“Lucia?” I called out her name, just to be sure that my eyes and my mind weren't playing awful tricks on me. “What the hell are you doing here?” I queried angrily. “Seems like you've got another prey for your sexaholic acts on—”“Shut it, Lucia!” I flared, as I stood from my seat, making for the door. “Who let you in here?” The fact that I had lost it while Ella watched made me feel even more awful than I had felt while Lucia was trying unravel my past in the most degrading way possible. I was already contemplating firing my secretary, for letting Lucia barge in on my business meeting with Ella. “How I got in isn't important,” Lucia hadn't changed a single bit. She was one of those big mistakes which just happened to stick with one for the rest of their lives. “Then what the hell are you here for
Chapter 1 Here I am, standing in the heart of San Francisco. The city is alive, its pulse echoing in the grand halls of the renowned Museum of Modern Art where my craft is on display. The charity art exhibition, hosted by the billionaire CEO, Adrian Charles Montgomery, is in full swing. "Your work is amazing, Ella," Sophia, my best friend, gushes, her eyes scanning the canvas. "Thanks, Soph," I reply, trying to keep my smile in place. But my mind is elsewhere, on the medical bills piling up at home, the treatments I can't afford. Sophia, with her hand gently gliding over the artwork, turns to me and says, "No, seriously Ella, your art is very beautiful." Her voice is sincere, her eyes reflecting the inspiration she's drawing from my work. Suddenly, a man walks in. He's handsome, with a certain charm that screams wealth. I find myself caught in his presence, my breath hitching in my throat. Sophia, who was engrossed in my artwork, notices the change in my demeanor. "Hey girl," s
Chapter 2The message on my phone reads, "Please kindly meet me at my office," followed by an address. Sophia turns to me, her eyes wide with excitement. "Men! He's sounding like a perfect gentleman. Awwwn, I'm so happy for you."I snapped at her, "What do you mean? Sophia, he is a gentleman. He doesn't have to act like that. He is already a gentleman."Sophia responds, "Well, whatever. But he is into you, girl." I just sigh, opening the glass door of the gallery and stepping out into the cool night air. I hail a cab, while Sophia heads to her car, parked a little way off."Bye, girl," she calls out before driving off, leaving me alone with my thoughts. As I climb into the cab, I can't help but feel a strange mix of excitement and apprehension. What does Adrian want to discuss? And why at his office? I guess I'll find out soon enough.As the cab pulled away, I had to take one last look at the art gallery, its lights twinkling in the darkness.In the cab, I pull out my phone and type “
Chapter 3The morning sun peeks through the window, casting a warm glow on the room. I was still laying on Sophia, when she, my best friend, gently tapped me awake."Hey, wake up, girl. It's morning. You're gonna be late for your appointment," Sophia says, her voice soft but firm.I sit up, rubbing my eyes as I take in the sight of Sophia running around the room. She's sorting out my clothes, preparing breakfast, and even getting the water ready for my shower. It's like she's treating me like a child, but I don't mind. Right now, I need all the help I can get."Thanks, Sophia," I say, my voice hoarse from crying. "I don't know what I would do without you."Sophia just smiles at me, her eyes filled with determination. "You're my best friend, girl. I'm not going to let you go through this alone.""Alright, girl. Just get up. The young, fine man will be waiting. I'm definitely sure you don't want to miss your appointment," Sophia says, her voice filled with urgency. "I made you breakfast
Chapter SevenAdrian's POVIn a moment, my past flashed past me, as I was staring at my ex girlfriend, who had just come through the door. Why did she have to just show up at that point?“Lucia?” I called out her name, just to be sure that my eyes and my mind weren't playing awful tricks on me. “What the hell are you doing here?” I queried angrily. “Seems like you've got another prey for your sexaholic acts on—”“Shut it, Lucia!” I flared, as I stood from my seat, making for the door. “Who let you in here?” The fact that I had lost it while Ella watched made me feel even more awful than I had felt while Lucia was trying unravel my past in the most degrading way possible. I was already contemplating firing my secretary, for letting Lucia barge in on my business meeting with Ella. “How I got in isn't important,” Lucia hadn't changed a single bit. She was one of those big mistakes which just happened to stick with one for the rest of their lives. “Then what the hell are you here for
Chapter SixAdrian's POVThe alarm clock sprung me out of my sleep. I had struggled to fall asleep, as I had been continually haunted by thoughts of Ella. Yes, I knew it had been awfully out of place to make such early advances at her, but then it couldn't be helped. I felt terribly guilty, as I let my demons resurface yet again. In spite of how hard I tried to suppress my insatiable longings, I found myself being enslaved to them time and again. Being wealthy and powerful made it even worse, as the best of ladies were always falling head over heels for me. Even though I'd had the best of women in San Francisco, there was something about Ella that made me feel incomplete if I didn't have her. She was special. That was the only word I could think of to describe her. My heart was filled with anticipation, as my phone buzzed on the pillow beside me. I reached for it, hoping that it had been Ella trying to remind me about our appointment that morning.“Hello…”All my hopes were dashe
Chapter 5Noticing Adrian shifting in his chair, I quickly changed the topic. "Have you ever thought about what art can do for our country and the world at large?" I asked, hoping to bring the conversation back to a more professional level.Adrian seemed to snap back to reality at my question. "Well, you can talk more about that," he said, leaning back in his chair. "I think there's a way we can create an outstanding art legacy that people will love."I nodded, encouraged by his response. "That's brilliant. And how do you propose we do that?"Adrian seemed to be listening, but his gaze was distant, as if he was lost in his own thoughts. He nodded and murmured vague agreements to my questions, but it was clear his mind was elsewhere."So, how much are you willing to invest for the start of this project?" I asked, hoping to gauge his commitment to the idea."Yes," he replied absentmindedly, not seeming to realize the oddity of his response.It was then I realized I had been talking to m
Chapter 4As I walked into the skyscraper, the first person I saw was the receptionist. She asked me who I’m looking for, and I told her that I have an appointment with Mr. Adrian Charles Montgomery.So she called his office number and informed him that someone is downstairs for an appointment with him.“Do I let her up Sir?” she asks him over the phone.“Yes, let her take the lift so she doesn’t stress herself,” comes the reply.The receptionist, with a professional smile, points me towards the lift."Take this to the Executive Suite," she instructs, her voice echoing slightly in the vast, marble-clad lobby. "Mr. Montgomery's office is on the top floor."And so, as I step into the lift, I'm immediately enveloped by a sense of grandeur. The interior is a blend of polished steel and glass, reflecting the soft, warm light from the ceiling. The doors close behind me with a soft, reassuring thud, and I press the button for the Executive Suite.As the lift ascends, I can't help but marvel
Chapter 3The morning sun peeks through the window, casting a warm glow on the room. I was still laying on Sophia, when she, my best friend, gently tapped me awake."Hey, wake up, girl. It's morning. You're gonna be late for your appointment," Sophia says, her voice soft but firm.I sit up, rubbing my eyes as I take in the sight of Sophia running around the room. She's sorting out my clothes, preparing breakfast, and even getting the water ready for my shower. It's like she's treating me like a child, but I don't mind. Right now, I need all the help I can get."Thanks, Sophia," I say, my voice hoarse from crying. "I don't know what I would do without you."Sophia just smiles at me, her eyes filled with determination. "You're my best friend, girl. I'm not going to let you go through this alone.""Alright, girl. Just get up. The young, fine man will be waiting. I'm definitely sure you don't want to miss your appointment," Sophia says, her voice filled with urgency. "I made you breakfast
Chapter 2The message on my phone reads, "Please kindly meet me at my office," followed by an address. Sophia turns to me, her eyes wide with excitement. "Men! He's sounding like a perfect gentleman. Awwwn, I'm so happy for you."I snapped at her, "What do you mean? Sophia, he is a gentleman. He doesn't have to act like that. He is already a gentleman."Sophia responds, "Well, whatever. But he is into you, girl." I just sigh, opening the glass door of the gallery and stepping out into the cool night air. I hail a cab, while Sophia heads to her car, parked a little way off."Bye, girl," she calls out before driving off, leaving me alone with my thoughts. As I climb into the cab, I can't help but feel a strange mix of excitement and apprehension. What does Adrian want to discuss? And why at his office? I guess I'll find out soon enough.As the cab pulled away, I had to take one last look at the art gallery, its lights twinkling in the darkness.In the cab, I pull out my phone and type “
Chapter 1 Here I am, standing in the heart of San Francisco. The city is alive, its pulse echoing in the grand halls of the renowned Museum of Modern Art where my craft is on display. The charity art exhibition, hosted by the billionaire CEO, Adrian Charles Montgomery, is in full swing. "Your work is amazing, Ella," Sophia, my best friend, gushes, her eyes scanning the canvas. "Thanks, Soph," I reply, trying to keep my smile in place. But my mind is elsewhere, on the medical bills piling up at home, the treatments I can't afford. Sophia, with her hand gently gliding over the artwork, turns to me and says, "No, seriously Ella, your art is very beautiful." Her voice is sincere, her eyes reflecting the inspiration she's drawing from my work. Suddenly, a man walks in. He's handsome, with a certain charm that screams wealth. I find myself caught in his presence, my breath hitching in my throat. Sophia, who was engrossed in my artwork, notices the change in my demeanor. "Hey girl," s