Chapter 9: Questions and Bullets
1108 Words
As always, Fathima handled everything.
From the dress selection to the transportation, stylists, makeup artists, and security arrangements, she ensured every detail was flawless.
That was why Mhagi trusted her more than anyone else. The woman was practically running half her life.
For today's press conference, Fathima had chosen a white silk dress. It was simple, elegant and gorgeous.
The high slit running along one side added just enough allure to draw attention without appearing inappropriate.
Combined with delicate jewelry and soft makeup, the final result was stunning.
"You look expensive."
Mhagi glanced at her reflection.
"That's because I am."
Fathima laughed
"There she is."
An hour before the official start of the event, Mhagi arrived at the venue.
The launch was being held inside one of Madrid's most prestigious convention centers. Outside, reporters were already gathering.
Inside, company executives rushed between rooms preparing for the presentation. When Mhagi entered the designated waiting room, she immediately noticed Xavier.
He was sitting alone near the window. One leg crossed over the other. A tablet resting in his hand.
Calm. Composed. Like a king seated on his throne.
For a moment, Xavier simply looked at her. Long enough for several staff members to notice.
Then he spoke.
"You look beautiful."
The room instantly became silent.
Several assistants looked up from their phones. A makeup artist nearly dropped her brush. Even Halix looked surprised.
Mhagi merely smiled.
"Thank you."
Then she sat down.
As if receiving compliments from powerful mafia heirs happened every day. The staff exchanged knowing looks. The rumors definitely weren't helping.
A few minutes later, the event coordinator entered.
"We're ready."
The waiting room immediately came alive. Everyone moved toward the main stage. The conference hall was packed.
Journalists. Photographers. Investors. Business partners. Fashion bloggers.
The giant screen behind the stage displayed the logo of Porter Corporation along with promotional images from the Rosas campaign.
Flashes erupted the moment Xavier and Lilia appeared.
Click. Click. Click.
The conference officially began.
One executive welcomed the guests before presenting the company's plans for the summer season. A short video followed.
The audience watched highlights from the beach photoshoot. The Rosas collection appeared on the massive screen.
Elegant swimwear. Luxury fabrics. Beautiful coastal scenery and, of course, Lilia David.
The audience applauded when the presentation ended. Then Xavier took the microphone.
He discussed the company's vision. Future projects. Marketing goals. Brand expansion. Everything expected from a successful CEO.
Afterward, Lilia was invited to speak. She thanked Porter Corporation for the opportunity and expressed excitement about collaborating on the campaign.
The professional portion concluded smoothly. Then came the dangerous part.
Questions.
The moderator pointed toward the reporters. Hands immediately shot into the air.
The first few questions remained focused on business. Sales projections. Marketing strategies. Future endorsements.
Then someone finally asked the question everyone had been waiting for.
"Miss David, are you and Mr. Porter dating?"
Several reporters leaned forward. Others prepared their cameras. Mhagi nearly smiled.
Of course. The room suddenly became much more interested. Before she could answer, Xavier took the microphone.
"No."
A wave of disappointment spread through the audience but the reporter persisted.
"Then how do you explain the recent photos?"
"We had business meetings."
Another hand shot upward.
"What about the beach photos?"
"The campaign."
"What about the private ride home?"
Xavier's patience visibly decreased.
"I was being courteous."
Several reporters exchanged looks. Not satisfied. One journalist stood.
"So there is absolutely nothing romantic between you?"
This time Mhagi answered.
"No."
The journalist frowned.
"Not even the possibility?"
Mhagi laughed.
"You're asking the wrong questions."
The audience chuckled.
Unfortunately, that answer only fueled further speculation. Even after both denied everything, the reporters seemed determined to create a story. By the time the conference ended, Xavier looked exhausted.
The media looked delighted and Mhagi found the entire situation amusing. Hours later, after escaping the crowd, Xavier approached her.
"Dinner?"
She looked at him.
"Dinner?"
"To celebrate a successful launch."
Mhagi considered it.
Then nodded.
"Sure."
The restaurant Xavier selected was beautiful, private, elegant and completely empty.
The moment they entered, Mhagi realized why.
"You rented the entire restaurant?"
Xavier pulled out her chair.
"Yes."
She laughed.
"You know you're going to create even more rumors."
Instead of looking annoyed, Xavier shrugged.
"I'm getting used to it."
That answer surprised her.
The Xavier Porter she had met weeks ago would have hated the attention. Apparently, something had changed.
The two settled near a large window overlooking one of Madrid's busiest streets. For the first time, they spoke without contracts, photographers, or company executives surrounding them.
The conversation flowed surprisingly easily. Occasionally they disagreed. Occasionally they laughed.
The evening almost felt normal. Then everything changed.
A black vehicle suddenly stopped outside. Mhagi noticed it first. Something about it felt wrong. Before she could react—
CRACK!
The restaurant window shattered. Gunfire erupted. People screamed. Glass exploded across the room.
Xavier immediately moved. Without hesitation, he grabbed Mhagi and pulled her behind a heavy dining table.
"What the hell is happening?" she asked.
Her voice shook perfectly. Like a terrified actress. Like a frightened civilian. Exactly the role she needed to play.
Xavier couldn't answer. His attention remained focused on survival. More gunfire echoed outside. His jaw tightened.
This wasn't random. Someone had planned this. Several minutes later, black SUVs arrived.
Porter security. Dozens of armed men flooded the area. The attackers quickly retreated. Within moments, the situation was under control.
Xavier stepped outside briefly. His men surrounded him.
"Clean this up."
"Yes, Boss."
"And make sure this never reaches the media."
"Understood."
When he returned, Mhagi appeared shaken. At least on the outside.
"Come on."
Without waiting for a response, Xavier escorted her toward his vehicle. The drive passed in silence.
Soon they arrived at her condominium building. Xavier even accompanied her to the elevator.
Neither spoke until they reached her floor. Finally, Mhagi stopped.
"Hey."
Xavier looked at her.
"What's happening?"
Silence.
She frowned.
"What happened back there?"
Still no answer.
"Xavier."
Her voice sharpened.
"Answer me."
For the first time, he truly saw the anger on her face. Not fear. Anger.
Xavier stepped closer. Close enough that they were nearly face-to-face.
"I can't give you an answer."
His voice remained calm.
"But we'll handle it."
Before she could ask another question, he turned around and walked away.
The elevator doors closed behind him. Minutes later, Xavier pulled out his phone. His expression darkened.
"Halix."
"Yes, Boss?"
"What the hell is going on?"
Because someone had just attacked him in broad nightlight and for the first time in years—
Xavier Porter wasn't sure who had pulled the trigger.
- Writer
