Chapter 5: Crossing Path
893 Words
Celestine POV
The next morning, I woke up feeling lighter. Maybe it was because I finally got some sleep, or maybe I convinced myself to stop overthinking about Azrael.
As I stretched and looked out my window, the golden sunrise over Manila reminded me of why I came back. This was home, and I was here to focus on my family, our new business, and the future.
“New day, new mindset,” I whispered to myself, determined to put the odd encounter behind me.
After a quick breakfast of pandesal and coffee, I received a call from my mom.
“Anak, may meeting tayo today with the marketing team for the makeup brand. Are you free to come?” she asked.
“Of course, Mom. I’ll get ready and meet you there,” I replied, already planning my outfit.
I chose a sleek, white blazer and matching pants paired with nude heels—a professional yet fashionable look that reflected my style.
Azrael POV
My day started with back-to-back meetings. I barely had time for breakfast, but that was normal for me. Work came first, and distractions were unacceptable.
But as I reviewed the final marketing plans for my company, I couldn’t shake the feeling of anticipation. Something told me today was going to be... interesting.
“Sir, your 2 PM meeting with the Devereux family is confirmed,” my secretary informed me.
“Good,” I replied curtly, already dismissing the thought.
Still, a part of me wondered if Celestine would be there.
Third Person POV
The Devereux family’s meeting with the marketing team took place in a high-end corporate office located in the heart of Makati. Celestine arrived first, her commanding presence immediately catching the attention of everyone in the room.
As she settled into her seat, her parents walked in, warmly greeting her before the meeting began.
Meanwhile, Azrael arrived right on time, his sharp black suit and undeniable charisma turning heads as he entered the conference room.
The moment their eyes met, the air in the room shifted. Celestine’s is shocked but she quickly composed herself. Azrael, on the other hand, hid his surprise behind his usual stoic expression.
“Mr. Ziferano, it’s great to see you again,” Mr. Devereux said, shaking Azrael’s hand.
“Likewise,” Azrael replied, his gaze briefly flickering to Celestine.
“This is our daughter, Celestine. She’ll be the face of our brand,” Mrs. Devereux introduced proudly.
“We’ve met,” Azrael said simply, his deep voice sending an unexplainable shiver down Celestine’s spine.
“Yes, at the charity house,” Celestine added, her voice steady despite the unease she felt.
The meeting progressed smoothly, with discussions about branding, target markets, and upcoming campaigns. Celestine remained professional, contributing her insights and ideas confidently.
Azrael, however, couldn’t help but steal glances at her. Her poise, intelligence, and beauty only deepened the intrigue he felt.
By the end of the meeting, the team had finalized plans for the photoshoot and promotional materials.
“Thank you, Mr. Ziferano, for your support and partnership,” Mr. Devereux said as they wrapped up.
“It’s my pleasure,” Azrael replied, shaking his hand firmly.
As everyone began to leave, Azrael caught up to Celestine.
“Miss Devereux,” he called out, making her stop in her tracks.
“Yes, Mr. Ziferano?” she replied, turning to face him.
“I just wanted to say that your ideas during the meeting were impressive. You clearly have a sharp mind for this industry,” he said, his tone unusually sincere.
Celestine blinked, caught off guard by the compliment. “Thank you. That means a lot coming from you.”
For a brief moment, their eyes locked, and the world seemed to fade away. But before either could say more, Mrs. Devereux called for Celestine.
“Excuse me,” she said, breaking the spell as she walked away.
Azrael watched her leave, his jaw tightening.
She’s more than just beautiful and intelligent, he thought to himself.
Celestine POV
As I rode home with my parents, I couldn’t shake the feeling of Azrael’s gaze on me. His compliment echoed in my mind, making me question everything.
Why was he being nice all of a sudden? And why did it feel like there was something more to his words?
“Anak, okay ka lang?” Mom asked, noticing my silence.
“Yes, Mom. Just thinking about the meeting,” I lied, forcing a smile.
But deep down, I knew the truth.
This wasn’t just business anymore.
It was personal.
Azrael POV
As I sat in my office later that evening, I couldn’t focus on work. Celestine’s voice, her presence, and the spark I felt when I spoke to her refused to leave my mind.
I opened my laptop and searched her name again. Articles, photos, and interviews flooded the screen. She was every bit the star her reputation claimed her to be—an international model, a philanthropist, and now the face of her family’s beauty business.
But there was something more.
I leaned back in my chair, running a hand through my hair.
“Who are you, Celestine Devereux?” I muttered to myself.
And why does it feel like you’re the one person I can’t ignore?
For the first time in years, I felt unsure. And that terrified me.
- Writer
