Chapter 9: The Lies

"One lie is enough to question all truths." - Anonymous

.........

Stavros' POV

I woke up feeling sticky with sweats, plus a throbbing headache, caused by a damn hangover.

My eyes slowly open but closes it again, squinting couple times to adjust my vision with the sun rays flooding the room.

I stirred when I felt a hand around my waist, legs intertwined, head on my chest. I remembered I saw Ali's face last night and I remember kissing her.

But that's impossible!

I move the head gently, her arms, and slowly untangling my legs out of hers, as I slowly get up. I winced when I felt a sharp pinching in my head.

I looked back at the woman sleeping peacefully with disarrayed hair above her head and checked who is she? She had a dark brown hair like Alessandra, but shorter.

Wait?

"Krystina?" an audible gasp broke out my lips when realization dawns on me, hard.

"Fuck!" I hissed inaudibly between clenched teeth.

Shocked, stunned, bewildered, engulfed my whole being.

As if on cue she stirred, then she opened her eyes as I was hurriedly picking up my clothes and putting them on while trying not to stumble.

"Dammit!"

Shit! Shit! Shit! I chanted in my head as I put on my pants.

Alessandra will never forgive me for this! What had I done? I have never felt so scared in my whole life until today.

"Dammit, Krystina!" I mentally cursed.

"Good morning, handsome! That was fun last night," she exclaimed nibbling her lower lip, in her most sensual tone as she batted her lashes. She pulled the covers out of her naked form and I didn't bother to look.

"Whatever happened last night Krystina is NOTHING!" I said sternly, tone rising at the end, giving her the looked of stay-away-from-me! Then, I stormed out of the room without waiting for her response.

As I run-walk along the hallway to the stairs heading down to the main floor, I saw Demetrio heading to the stairs, too. "You were deadly drunk last night, man," he commented, thoroughly amused. "Partying hard, indeed! This is what I missed in a long time!" he exclaimed, grinning happily.

He looks like he just woke up just like me, with his just-fucked hair. Shirt half unbuttoned, a little piece of the shirt was tucked in. Well, he seems he pretty got laid last night, judging his looks.

And so yourself. My inner-self said mockingly. I don't know if we really did have sex last night. I couldn't remember anything.

"I can't remember anything from last night," I remarked casually. "What time the party ended?"

"About 2 AM I believe," he replied nonchalantly. "Tsk, tsk .... It was the best party ever!" he remarked as he grinned. "Not single one came out sober last night! Jeeezzz. It was just wild!" he chuckled, as he pats my shoulder lightly. He trudges down the stairs ahead of me and I trailed behind him.

We saw Angela, two more girls, Nicolas, and Zandros at the main floor huge living room, talking while having coffee.

"Coffee guys?" Zandros asked as we got closer. Zandros is comfortably sitting on the corner of the long couch while sipping his coffee.

"Yes, please. Do you have Tylenol or Advil or anything for a headache?" As I plopped down on one of the couches closer to Nicolas. He pressed the buzzer that was on top of an end table close to where he seated. Then, Laila came in shortly.

"Yes, Zandros?" She said as she shifted her gaze to everyone. Her eyes filled with fondness whenever it was directed at us.

"Will you make two coffees for Demetrio and Stavros, Laila? Oh, and please bring some Tylenol for Stavros." Zandros asked sweetly and Laila nodded with a bright smile. She always looks enthusiastic.

She works with them since Zandros was a baby. That's long. She is like a mother to us, always warm and sweet. She's only the maid here that call us with our first name basis.

"Of course. I'll be back, boys." She replied smiling fondly and she turned on her heel and walked away.

I leaned on my back and close my eyes.

"Hey, are you ok?" Nicolas asked. No! Because I just slept with that Bitch. I mentally shout.

"Yes," I said with eyes still closed. "Just a massive headache," I grunted as I massage my temple.

"Lucky you, you still had managed to get up dude. You are way dead drunk last night. We had a hard time bringing you upstairs," he stated as he chuckled.

"Just like the old times, huh?" I said wincing when I felt the hammering pain in my head.

"Yeah, old times!" And he broke into laughter. When Zandros talk about his expansion, I was zoned out.

After I took a Tylenol, I felt the pain slowly diminishing. I just finished my coffee and Taylor arrived. I left them, then Nicolas was leaving when Taylor drove off the driveway. Demetrio left with the girls.

.....

Krystina's POV

"Damn you, Stavros!" I grit out frustratedly. If he thinks he can get away from me, sure he is nuts. I'm not just someone to messed with. No other girl who can love him the way I did. I'll do anything to win him, come what may!

My eyes involuntarily darted to my phone. I took like five photos of him lying naked except his boxers on. He looks completely wasted. Then, few photos of me and him together. My head leaning on his chest and other position.

A ghost of a wicked smile broke out on the corner of my lips. A smile of oncoming victory.

Memories of our kisses last night flooded my brain. I kissed him and he kissed me back, I was so happy. Then, he mumbled something I can't comprehend. Then, he just suddenly dozes off.

Urgh ... I was so fucking horny.

So, I stormed off of his room and went to Andrew's room. As soon as I entered his room that asshole wraps his hands around my waist and kissed me like there's no tomorrow. He's not bad after all. Still head over heels in love with me.

He's still useful.

After our sex, we lie still until he's fast asleep. I slowly crept out of his room and went back to Stavros' room. He's peacefully asleep.

I took off his shirt leaving only his boxer short. Crawled inside the blanket. I lay my head on his chest. Took some photos. Before I decided to go to sleep.

I've never been so alive since he left me. Although he never acknowledges me as his girlfriend, as long as he didn't have any, I am fine, but now, I'm getting old and my career is slowly flopping. Modeling career doesn't last longer. That depend on how good you look and sexy. And as you age, the offers is decreasing until they all disappear before your eyes.

Stavros is all I need before my career flops.

You can't just walk away now from me Stavros.

NEVER!

.......

Alessandra's POV

Two days of his absence feels years and years. I'm missing him so much yet I can't do anything. My mind is wandering away. I'm glad Mr. Hernandez is in a conference meetings most of the time.

It's almost end of the day and I haven't heard anything from him. I hope he's fine.

"Hey, you're not done yet?" I saw Lucy's walking to my direction.

"What time is it?" I asked as I massage my temple. I'm starting to get a headache. I'm really not in my right mindset today.

"Just give me a second, Lu," as I powered down the computer. Securely lock the drawers and place the folders neatly in one pile. I put back the pen I've used in the pencil holder and made sure my table is tidy before rising from my seat and grab my purse. "Let's go," I said while hoisting my purse in my shoulder.

Not long, we arrived at our place. I made dinner and we ate together but not one wants to break the silence. Lucy didn't make any conversation, she knows I'm not really in the mood.

I was in the kitchen opening a white wine with a cork, Lucy was on the couch watching while she's on her laptop. Then, all of a sudden she called out my name.

"Ali, come, check this out." She yells.

"Hold on a second," I yelled back while pouring some white wine on a two glass. Grabbing the two glasses, I made my way to the couch and nestled close to where she's sitting handing her one glass.

She took it and held it with one hand while the other hand tapping on the mouse pad. "Look," she grinned giddily as she turned her laptop facing me.

GREECE BILLIONAIRES MOST-SOUGHT AFTER BACHELORS REUNITED!

The tycoon Businessman Zandros Mailov threw a party at their villa and we spotted the famous and drop-dead gorgeous Stavros Demakis, with his other friends Eligible Bachelor, Nicolas Petropoulis and Demetrio Pallos, who owns the billion-dollar chains of hotels across the world.

Below is a picture of Stavros and his friends. He already mentioned it to me about his friends. So that's Nicolas, Demetrio, and Zandros, as I ran my eyes through the photos. They all look handsome in their own way, but for me, Stavros stands out.

I noticed the girls in the background, hot and sexy, obviously, if they were not celebrities, they were models. I felt a familiar twinge of jealousy in my chest. I shake it off. I believe Stavros will not cheat on me, I need to trust him.

It was easy to say, seeing those photos, it's hard to stay positive.

I need to trust him.

"Holy moly, Ali! Your boyfriend is a celebrity and his friends are all yummy," she giggled dragging me back to her. "Don't they all look like a Greek God? or maybe they are! They are Greeks, after all. Maybe that explains why?" she gushes, continually rambling dreamily.

"Isn't it unfair? They all seems so perfect." I rolled my eyes at the thought.

"Thank God, we got to see their kind. At least, we have an inspiration and reasons to live and to be beautiful," she quipped laughing in amusement. Soon I was joining her laughing, too.

Then, silence fills the air. Lucy went back on browsing and reading on her laptop.

I texted him again.

Hey, I'm just wondering if my text went through. Hope you're ok! - Ali

I let out a loud sighed. Checking on my phone every damn second.

"Are you ok, Al?" she asked with a cocked eyebrow.

"Yeah. I'm just worried about him. Heard nothing since this morning. I hope he's alright," I pouted bringing the glass to my mouth, I took a tentative sip.

"Oh. Look at you?" Lucy said teasingly. "So much in love," she sing-song with her eyes full or mirth.

"Shut up, Lu!" I snapped. She just keeps on humming while looking at me teasingly. I ignored her as I made a swigged of my wine.

.....

Stavros' POV

I've been looking anywhere for my phone and found nothing. I'm really getting anxious. I need to let Ali know where I am and to remind her that I will be extending my stay for another night since tomorrow night is the Anniversary ball. She'll be worried. I remember to call the villa, maybe Laila has seen it somewhere.

"Mailov víla, Pó̱s boró̱ na sas voi̱thí̱so̱?" (Mailov Villa, how may I help you)?

"Laila egó̱ eímai, Stavros." (Laila it's me, Stavros).

"Akoúste , nomízo̱ óti ptó̱si̱ ti̱léfo̱nó mou kápou ekeí ," (Listen, I think I dropped my phone somewhere there,)

"Nai , Éna apó ta kyría edó̱ vrí̱ke." (Yes, one of the girls here found it.)

"Sas ef̱charistó̱ , Laila. Tha zi̱tí̱so̱ apó ti̱n Téilor na to párei tó̱ra . Eseís tha eíste ekeí?" (Thank you, Laila. I will ask Taylor to pick it now. Will you be there?)

"Nai. Tha periméno̱ gi 'af̱tón." (Yes. I'll wait for him.)

"Antío , Laila kai sas ef̱charistó̱ kai páli." (Bye, Laila and Thank you again.)

"Antío , Stavros." (bye, Stavros.)

I called Taylor's phone from my room. "Yes, Mr. Demakis."

"Taylor, will you please go to Mailov's villa and retrieve my phone? I dropped it last night and Laila has it."

"Right away, sir."

I should memorize her number just in case at times like this, I could call her. I'm wondering what is she up to at the moment?

Not long, after I put the phone in its receiver, it rang.

I snatched it back without bothering to check. "Stavros Speaking," I snapped.

"Honey, it's mom. I tried to call your phone numerous times, but no answer. Why is that? Anyway, Have you been told about the program details regarding the ball for tomorrow night? You should know," she ranted ceremoniously, which annoyed me tremendously.

There's my mom, even just hi, how are you, pretending to care, but of course she's my mom. That's why I care for my grandparents more than I care for them.

"Mom, I'm coming tonight. We can talk later over dinner about that! Regarding my phone, I left it at Zandros' villa." I let out a heavy sighed. Can't this day gets any better.

"Oh, I heard about the party. How did it go?" She asked which was surprising. What happened to my who-doesn't-care mom?

"Fine, mom," I replied with a bored tone. I'm not going to start talking now. It's too late for her to involve in my life. She has all the years yet she put it all behind.

"Well, my boy doesn't seem interested in sharing it with his mom," her casual innuendo as she chuckled softly.

"And since when are you interested mom in my personal life?" I rebutted sarcastically.

Recently, I used to just ignore it, but I'm not in the mood today. Sometimes, I'd think, are they really my parents? For my father, there's no explanation, I am the spitting image of him.

"I'm sorry, honey. I shouldn't push it too far," she apologized as she sighed heavily. Lately, they are trying to win my affection. I love them no question about that.

"Bye, mom, I'll see you tonight," I dismissed and hung up the phone. I can't help it.

All my life I've been raised by my grandparents. Every mess I got into, my papou was the ones who help me out. My mom, or my dad? They are busy with their own life — their career.

No.

Both are busy with their own career.

I was a rebellious kid trying to get my parent's attention, but they seem to forget they have a son. And, every time I get into trouble, they would really get mad at me, and they ignored me all the more, calling me a shame to the family.

My grandparents understand why I was acting that way and tried to explain it to them, but my parents perceived it differently.

I let out a deep breathed. Why would I need to bother myself with this thing?

I still feel exhausted. Last night was crazy! Then, I remember again what happened last night. It was indeed a wild party.

SHIT!

I never get drunk that much. I don't know what I was thinking last night. And, Krystina made it all worst.

Damn that bitch!

I got up from my bed frustratedly, running my hand through my hair in frustrations and head down to the bar.

I poured myself some wine and made my way back to the big living room and settled myself on the couch.

I swigged my wine and pick the remote control, turning the 100" flat-screen on. Flicking on the channels, but nothing that interest me.

I put down the remote control and my wine, then I laid down on the couch horizontally, staring at the ceiling as I massage my temple. Still thinking what to do next. I shouldn't drink that much last night.

"Damn Vodka! And, damn Krystina!"

I don't know how long I was lying on the couch when I heard Taylor's voice standing on the side of the couch.

"Here's your phone, Mr. Demakis." I quickly sit upright and took the phone.

"Thank you, Taylor. You may leave." I dismissed without glancing at him. I quickly check on my phone, and sure I have 18 missed calls, all from mom, two messages, from Alessandra.

I quickly tap on my inbox.

Hi, Stav. Just checking if you're ok. I hope you came home safe. I'm going to work soon. Hope you had a great day! Missing you much! :) - Ali.

The second text is the same as the first one. She's worried. I felt a pang of remorse. I texted her back. I had to charge my phone since the battery is low.

Hi, baby. I'm sorry, I left my phone at Zandros' villa last night. Taylor just retrieved it just now. I'm sorry, I made you worry. Btw, I'll have dinner at my grandparents' house tonight, then tomorrow night is the Anniversary party. I will let you know in case I will fly after the party or not. I terribly miss you! I'll make it up to you when I get back. - Stavros.

After responding to her text, I still feel not satisfied. I dialed her number. It kept ringing. No answer. I tried again, but no answer. And, for the last time, but still no answer.

Maybe she's busy. It's 6:10 I had better get showered. I had a good sleep after I got home this morning.

Thank God, that headache is gone.

I made my way back to my room and took a shower and got myself ready.

I arrived at my grandfather's place around 7:35. My family is already in the living room waiting for me. Dramatic entrance as usual.

"Oh, there's our boy," Theodore Demakis announced as I entered the big living room. He looks younger than his age. He's the epitome of a great grandfather and a businessman.

"Papou," I said as I approached and gave him a manly hug. I loved him very much. He was my father and a mentor at the same time.

"Oh, dear!" my sweet giagia said. She gave me the longest hug ever and gave me a peck on my cheeks just like a little boy. Only my giagia do that! "My favorite boy!!" she exclaimed excitedly, still smiling sweetly.

"I know, giagia," I said, smiling back at her. I gave my dad and mom a hug too, with less affection, maybe just for politeness, after all, they are the reason why I was born.

"The food is ready, let's all go to the dining room," giagia announced. I sat beside giagia across mom and dad. Papou sat in the middle as the head of the family.

"I'm glad you decided to run the business now, Stavros," my dad started as he made a small bite of his potatoes. He glances at me once in a while.

He was a very strict father. He wants everything perfect. He worked hard during my younger age. He barely goes home. He's always in a conference meeting. I don't understand.

My grandfather used to enlighten me about their absence, but I grew up holding a grudge for my parents.

"My business is stable now, thanks to my very dependable management team, I'm not worried much if I'll use half of my time on our family's company! Besides, I'll get some help from you, right dad?" I said trying to insinuate how he loved working that he barely has time for us.

"Of course," he said smiling at me, but it didn't reach his eyes. I see regrets in his eyes, but I tried to ignore it.

"So what's for tomorrow night's plan?" I asked my mom casually trying to shake it off the bad vibes that starting to envelop me.

"Well, the MC, which will be your dad. Your dad will make an introduction about the company as well. Then, a speech will be made by Theodore," she glanced at my grandfather, who was having a sip of his wine, then he leaned his back on his chair. Next, will be the announcement of the new CEO. There's also a bunch of reporters from AG Broadcasting Network to take full coverage of the announcements and I hope you will be on your best behavior, Stavros," my mom said, with a hint of warning in her voice.

She always thinks I am irrational. She never trusted me! I'm not the 13 years old boy anymore.

"Mom, that old Stavros is gone!" I growled, dropping my fork that made a loud sound. I was glaring at her. She looked down at her food and continued eating like she never said anything. I was pissed.

"STOP!" my grandpa said out loud! I pick up my fork and started slicing my meat viciously.

"Stavros will do fine!" my grandpa continued. His tone is weary.

I felt remorse for losing my temper in front of my grandparents. My grandma just looked at us and continued eating.

"Thanks, pap," I nodded gratefully. I let out a heavily sighed and continued my dinner.

Dinner went by smoothly except that little scene. Mom and dad have been so silent until the dinner is done. Papou ask a lot of question regarding my business, which I happily answered. Giagia also shared funny stories about her friends, she's so ecstatic.

I'm in the backyard watching the reflection of the moon in the pool. It's very beautiful night, very calming. I took my phone out from my pocket as I sit on one of the Muskoka chairs and checked on my phone. I have a message. I got excited as I tap on my inbox.

I'm glad you're ok. Now I can work, call me if you get time. See yah. TTYL. - Ali.

I dialed her number, after few rings.

"Hello, Alessandra's speaking," she said in her professional tone.

"How's my beautiful baby?" I started as I smiled broadly. I leaned my back on the chair and watch the moon as I talked to her. Just her voice made everything blur around me. It was sweet and soothing. Relaxing my restless nerves.

"Stavros! Hi! I'm fine. I've been worried about you," She rambles elatedly with a hint of weary in her voice.

"I'm sorry, babe! It was crazy last night. I was wasted and I left my phone at Zandros' villa," I explained, guilt nagging me as the thought of Krystina's sneaky scheme crosses my head and again, I felt so worried.

I mentally cursed myself for not being careful last night. Do I need to tell her what happened?

I think I should just let it go. No need to mention. Besides, I'm not sure if something really happened between us.

I was debating with my inner self when I heard her worried tone. "Are you ok, Stav?" She asked warily, interrupting me out of my trance. My scrambled thoughts instantly pulled together dragging me back into reality.

"Y-yes, babe," I said hesitantly.

Am I?

"You suddenly became silent." She commented nonchalantly.

I wished she's here and I could hold her, and let myself drowned in her sweet sexy smell.

"I'm sorry, I was just looking at the pool, with the moon's reflections on the water," I replied.

It was a half-lie as I call it. Oh, I can't do this all the time, I thought.

"Ohh.." she murmured. I could imagine her delectable lips forming an "o". I smiled at the thought. "You sounded like the night there was beautiful," she exclaimed and which I couldn't agree more.

"Yes. It is."

A silence took over for a good minute. "Hey, I have to go, but thank you for calling. It's so nice to hear your voice. I'm always thinking about you. I really miss you so much!" she exclaimed making me feel all the more guilty. A warm feeling cloth my whole being when her words reach my heart.

"I need to hang up now before Mr. Hernandez comes out of his room," she whispered. I chuckled when she did that.

Sometimes, she really forgot who her boyfriend is, but I didn't remind her about me being the owner, or I'd ruined this moment.

"Ok, babe! I'll see you soon!"

"Bye!"We said in unison and she hangs up.

I let out a loud sighed. I can't wait for the Anniversary to be over. She has no idea how I felt right now.

I stuffed my phone back in my pocket when I heard footsteps coming my way, but I didn't bother to check.

"Penny for your thoughts?" It's my grandpa as he took the chair close to mine. "Is it a girl?" He asked straightforward without a ceremony.

I sat up straight and watched him closely. It's been a while since we talked this close. I didn't notice those fine wrinkles in his forehead and under his eyes.

"No, Pap!" I denied as I looked back on the pool. The moon's reflection is still there, looks peacefully sitting over the water. The clear sky is too beautiful with the soft breeze kissing our bare skin. It would be perfect if she's here with me.

"That looks, only means one thing, Stavros! I've seen it many times. Are you sure it's not a girl? I wasn't born yesterday, Agapo," he remarked grinning teasingly. "Tell me about it!" He urged. My grandpa is known for being tenacious. So it will be pointless of denying it.

I let out a deep breathed. "I met a girl in New York. She works for me, I mean one of my directors," I began as I fumbled for words that I won't come out like a love-struck fool. "I became so protective of her and ..." I paused, "possessive. I mean, I never meant to be possessive of her, but it just naturally comes out pap. I can't control." I finally said. "It's just, it felt natural being like that. She's so different with the other girls I've met," I added as I heaved a contented sigh.

He smiled. "My, my, my, my grandson is in love!" He exclaimed and he chuckled. "That is normal, gios."

"Love? I don't think I could love, papou!" I said disapprovingly as I shake my head.

"Don't be stubborn, Stavros. I felt the same way when I first saw Rosana. I felt that instant pull and it seems that there's no way I could resist it. That night when I first laid my eyes on her, it seems like she's the only person in that party. I get jealous when she's been taken away by other guys for a dance. I instantly became over-possessive of her," he said as he grinned and watched the pool while telling me his love story.

"I didn't acknowledge it was love at first. I was too egotistical to face it. Until, she agreed to marry that guy she was arranged with." Then his face suddenly changed. He looks horrified. Then, he looks at me, and he continued on.

"Then at that moment, I felt my heart crushing into pieces. I just want to die at that day. My brother talked to me and made me realized my mistake. Then, and there I flew to Spain, to profess my love to Rosana. The wedding is on the next day. That day my life had turned beautifully. And, it was the best decision I've ever made." Then he looks at me and said. "I want to meet that girl, Stavros!"

"One day, pap," I promised, as I leaned back on the chair and turned my head on him. He looks very happy and contented. And, I want to have a life just like he had with giagia. Until now they're in love.

Before he stood up, he pats my shoulder. "Don't let your pride be in the way," He uttered before he left.

Soon after my grandfather left me, I stood up and bid goodbye to my parents and grandparents and left the mansion.

It's the day of the 37th Anniversary and most awaited Announcement of the new CEO of the Demakis Corp.

I put my phone back to my pocket as I just talked to Alessandra. It seems like the time is dragging. I'm getting excited to see her.

As the time for the party is approaching I'm feeling agitated. Although my friends are coming to support me, and my mind drifted to what happened 18 hours ago.

I hope Krystina won't come. She shouldn't! I hope Demetrio won't get her as his escort, I know he likes pissing me off.

"We'll be leaving soon, Stavros," giagia announced from behind my old room's door, in their Mansion. Taylor drove me here this morning.

"I'm coming," I replied, picking up my phone and walking out of my bedroom closing the door behind me.

I walked to the spiral staircase where giagia was halfway down the stairs, heading to the living room where my grandpa and my parents were waiting.

"We need to be at the hotel to make sure everything is in order," I heard my mother announced.

The Anniversary is held at one of the grandest hotels in Athens and owned by my two friends, named after them, Grand Pallos-Petropoulis Hotel.

As soon as we get to the hotel my parents went straight to the hall, with Nana and coordinated with the organizers, while Papou and I went to another room, a conference room.

There are like sixteen men in their suit, young and old, sitting patiently waiting with folders sitting in front of them.

Some are reading, others scribbling, but they all stood up in unison as soon as we entered the room.

I sat on at the very end chair. They waited until my Grandpa seated and they all took their seat.

"Gentleman," I heard my Grandpa said as he started whatever this meeting for.

I took my phone out of my pocket and started playing. I could still hear Papou rambling. Not really interested what is it? For now, I'm enjoying being out of the topic. I'm not the CEO, just yet.

Then after like a decade, the men are giving my grandpa a handshake. Then, 10 minutes later, the room was empty except me and Papou. He sat back on the chair, now facing me. "We should go to the hall soon, Son," He said looking exhausted.

I put my phone back in my pocket and stared at him. "Shall we go?" I asked as I rose from the leather chair.

Shortly, we are in the hall.

It was a big room. It was elegantly decorated with almost all blue and white theme. From the stage to the tables and chairs. I remember my mom told me that chosen of employees are invited, CEOs of other companies, family friends, and partners. Which are about 150 heads excluding ourselves plus the reporters?

I'm guessing three-fourth of the invited are already present. And, I'm still standing at the grand entrance with papou, giagia on the side, shaking and welcoming every guest with a smile and my jaw was already numbed.

After several minutes, I spotted Georgia with a group, coming towards us. I was surprised to see her here. From behind the two couples was her dad, and mom, Mr. Alexander, and Mrs. Claire Costas. Georgia was smiling to me, her eyes glistening. She looks stunning with her red shimmering bodice-beaded chiffon gown with spaghetti straps.

"Alexander! Claire!" My papou exclaimed and gave them a hug. So as my giagia. Alexander was in his mid-50s and Claire was about her 50. Georgia looks more like her mom.

Georgia was smiling at me broadly. "Thank you for coming," papou said, then he turned to her. "Georgia," He exclaimed smilingly. "You look stunning tonight dear just like your mom," he complimented and kissed her cheeks. Georgia was smiling sweetly at him.

"Thank you, Mr. Demakis Georgia," replied cheekily. Then, she walked closer to me and nudge me on the elbow. I grinned at her. I greeted her dad and mom as well. Soon papou led Georgia's parents to the middle round table at the very front, where Demakis, Costas, and my friends will be seated.

My friends are already sitting there, surprisingly none of them brought any escort. Georgia pulled my hand and a photographer approaching our way took a photo of us as we walk to our table. Georgia was still holding my hand.

"I thought you're in New York," I said watching the people around the hall. Most of them I don't recognize.

"I came back yesterday," she grinned. "Can't miss this night for the world," she exclaimed.

"Ohh, that is so touchy," I grinned sarcastically. We took the only chair that was empty in between papou and Demetrio. I took the one beside papou and Georgia took the chair beside Demetrio. I introduced Georgia to my friends.

"Where is Stavros hiding you all along, babe?" Demetrio flirted, as he kissed the back of Georgia's hand. She snatched her hand away and smiled sweetly.

"Away from you, Mr. Sweet tongue," Georgia said as she rolled her eyes. I suppressed my laughter, but Zandros and Nicolas burst into bits of laughter. Demetrio glared at her, and Georgia glared back. This is interesting, I thought. For the first time, someone shuts him off.

The program started. My dad was standing atop the podium, giving an introduction about the company. I wasn't really paying attention.

Georgia was talking to me about her life in Paris. Her work as an editor in a runway magazine. I told her about Alessandra too. She was smiling and listening intently while I told her how beautiful and feisty she is sometimes. She giggles softly once in a while.

Then, my grandfather stood up. He straightened his suit and fixed his tie, then he walked to the stage.

Then, I realized, I will be called anytime soon. I watched him stand atop the podium.

"Exactly thirty-seven years ago, my brother and I ... started this company... " He talks about how the company survive the Financial Crisis and so on and on.

Then After like a decade, I heard my name called out.

"From Today, I will be stepping aside as the Chairman and CEO of my company to my dearest grandson, Stavros Demakis."

Georgia hit my elbow.

"Get Up! You need to make a speech now," she said grinning. I hear the roar of applause from the people. I stood up and let out a loud breathed as I fix my suit and tie and I walk to the stage and stand atop the podium. I rested my hand on the top platform while adjusting the mic.

"Dear Ladies and Gentlemen. It is a great honor for me to stand here today. I am thankful for my grandparents and family for appointing me and I am pleased to accept as the CEO of the Demakis Corporation," I began as I looked at my grandparents and my family and friends who are smiling at me, with so much pride in their eyes.

"As a new CEO of this Company, it's not new to me how to manage a business since I am a CEO myself of my own Business, although in different categories of industries, but I believe in one thing, as a CEO once said, "Our job is to grow revenue faster than expense. Now get to work!". Everyone laughed.

I talked about taking the company to the next level and what I expect to them, with authority as I looked around, and every eye was looking at me in awe.

Reporters trying to get good voice records, camera flashing here and there.

"I am not probing to look for weaknesses in you or your colleagues but to see how we are doing things now and how we might look for improvements. My interest is in processes, not personalities. I am not here to hurt anyone, just to see that we all work together to further the corporate fortunes. Again, Thank you and I would like to end my words with......" as I look around once more.

"LET'S GET TO WORK!!"

Then a roared of applause released with standing ovation. Managers, people I don't recognize, my family, friends, giving me handshakes and congratulating me.

I went back to my seat, my friends hugged and congratulated me and Georgia were so ecstatic. "That was AWESOME!!!" She exclaimed clapping her hands. "I am so proud of you," she beamed.

"Thanks, Georgia," I smiled and let out a relieved sighed. I can't recall all that I have said. My head was too fixed on just one thing. Leave soon and be with Alessandra.

Then I heard my father telling the crowds to grab desserts and have more wines. They also moved the tables from the middle to the side to have a room for dancing.

I'm on my way to Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" to New York. I didn't know how I persuaded my Grandpa to just send me all the files I needed and talked through skype on other things to discuss, as I was too eager to leave Greece.

It's 1:00 AM Greece time. Jude was patiently waiting for me on the tarmac with two flight attendant and his co-pilot, Rico.

"Thank you, Taylor," I smiled as I jumped out of the car. I know he's surprised I smiled a lot lately.

"My pleasure and have a safe flight Mr. Demakis," He replied in his professional tone.

"I'll see you soon," I said and walk to the plane, where Jude and another pilot and my two flight attendant standing beside the aircraft door.

"Welcome aboard Mr. Demakis," Jude exclaimed, giving me a handshake and motioned his hand for me to embark on the plane.

"Thank you, Jude," and I just nod to the rest as I walked past them into the plane.

We landed at around 5 AM, due to some turbulence, in JFK Airport.

As I disembark, I saw Pancho already waiting for me. I thanked Jude and the company and hurriedly walk to the car and got home before 6.

I was so exhausted, but I didn't care. I didn't call or text Alessandra because I want to surprise her.

As soon as I entered my bedroom I quickly take my suit off tossed it in the chair in the corner and hope in the shower. Shortly, I was getting ready to work and yearning to see Alessandra.

I felt so enthusiastic even though I only slept a few hours on the plane. My anticipation is growing tremendously.

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