Love Beyond Boarders

As Eustace stared at himself in the bathroom mirror, scratches on his face telling tales of the wild night he had with the three girls he took from the bar, his bedroom door creaked open and closed, signifying their departure. He quickly called Emily, his maid, for her to prepare clothes and a bath for him. While waiting, he rang up Lucas, his best friend, and Lucas's groggy voice confirmed he still had a hangover. They talked about the epic night at the club, surrounded by charming ladies. "These girls are animals, man," Lucas chuckled. "Tell me about it," he replied, running a hand through his disheveled hair. Amid their laughter, Eustace dropped the bomb, a business trip to Spain. “I will be heading to Spain," he disclosed. He wanted Lucas to accompany him, a chance for Lucas, a renowned baseball player, to soak in the vibe of a different country. Lucas agreed, enthusiasm palpable even through the phone. "Spain, man! Count me in. A baseball player's gotta explore the world and some fine Latina chicks... right?" "Exactly. It's gonna be epic," Eustace said, feeling the thrill of adventure. Transitioning to a more serious tone, he shared the news about Empire Lux. "By the time I'm back, Dad's sealing the deal on the property transfer. The empire's mine." There was a pause on the line, a moment pregnant with the weight of responsibility and anticipation. "Empire Lux, huh? You're stepping into some big shoes, Eustace." "Yeah, but hey, I've got you by my side. We'll conquer Spain and whatever else comes our way." Having grown up as the son of one of the world's greatest CEOs, Eustace was used to traveling the globe. Now, the pinnacle of power and fortune was just a finger away. After the call with Lucas, he stepped into the shower, washing away the remnants of last night's fun. A fresh suit replaced the disheveled one, and he headed out to meet his father. "Dad, Mr. Rogers,” Eustace greeted, entering his father's office. His father glanced up, a sly smile forming. "What happened to your face? Looks like someone had a wild night." Eustace shrugged, "Just a little adventure." As they discussed the impending transfer of 'Empire Lux,' Mr. Rogers played an important role in Eustace's dad's life. He had been his assistant for years since the establishment of the Empire. “Tell him,” Eustace's dad looked at him. Rogers dropped an unexpected bomb. The papers would be ready upon Eustace's return from Spain, but with a condition: he had to find a woman to marry and settle down with. Eustace stood there, stunned. Marriage wasn't part of his plan; he was the guy who enjoyed one-night stands and carefree adventures. This was a curveball he hadn't seen coming. "Rogers, you can't be serious," Eustace protested. Rogers's gaze bore into his, unwavering. "Eustace, it's time for you to think about the future. A legacy needs more than just wealth." Eustace scoffed, "I never thought marriage would be part of the deal." Eustace's father chuckled, "Life is full of surprises, son. Find someone who can handle you and be by your side, just like your mother was to me." Eustace found it odd because Dad was just like him. Even before Mom passed away, he had his fair share of fun with young ladies. Now, him pushing Eustace toward marriage felt like a sudden change. "Dad, marriage? Seriously?" Eustace blurted out, frustration lining his voice. His father looked at him sternly, "Eustace, it's not a joke. This is about securing the future of 'Empire Lux, what will the spectators say and our investors?" "But Dad, you've been the poster child for living in the moment. What happened to all the adventures, the freedom?" Eustace countered. His father sighed, “Don't compare me to you. 'Empire Lux' needs stability, and that comes from family. You can't keep drifting forever." Eustace scoffed, "So, what, I'm supposed to find a random woman and settle down just because it's good for business?" His father's tone hardened, "It's not about being random but yes, as long as you have a wife. What you do to her after marriage is none of my business nor problem. However, find someone who complements your life, who can share the responsibilities." Eustace shot back, "You never did that. Why the sudden interest in family values?" His father's eyes narrowed, "I didn't have the luxury of choice back then. You do. Don't squander it." Rogers walked up to Eustace and put his hand on his shoulder. "Eustace, in Spain, your main job is making friends for 'Empire Lux.' I set up meetings with some folks who can help us grow. Chat, smile, and act like you care about what they say. We want 'Empire Lux' to look good globally, not just at home." "Besides work stuff, go to parties and meet important people. It's not just about deals; it's about making 'Empire Lux' seem cool. You represent us, so don't mess it up." Eustace's dad nodded in agreement, "Remember son, how you act affects 'Empire Lux's' future. Use this trip to make people like us and maybe help the company down the line." After arguing with his dad and Rogers, Eustace's thoughts were all over the place. His words about stability and family clashed with Eustace's desire for a carefree life. The idea of marriage, something he never considered, now hung over his future. Responsibilities seemed heavy, and he felt torn between 'Empire Lux' legacy and his own dreams. The trip to Spain suddenly felt like a journey into uncharted territory, questioning his own beliefs. Eustace didn't even know where to start; he had never considered marrying any of the women he hooked up with. It was all fun and games. Feeling the need to find a solution, Eustace dialed up Lucas, "Hey, man, need to talk to you, it's urgent. I'm coming over." Lucas laughed, "Sure thing, Eustace. Should I prepare for another round of 'amazing stories'?" Rolling his eyes, Eustace replied, "Not this time, Lucas. It's serious stuff." After arguing with his dad and Rogers, Eustace's thoughts were all over the place. Their words about stability and family clashed with his desire for a carefree life. The idea of marriage, something he never considered, now hung over his future. Responsibilities seemed heavy, and he felt torn between 'Empire Lux' legacy and his own dreams. The trip to Spain suddenly felt like a journey into uncharted territory, questioning his own beliefs. Eustace didn't even know where to start; he had never considered marrying any of the women he hooked up with. It was all fun and games. Summoning the driver, he stepped outside to find his Porsche Cayenne waiting. The driver greeted him, "Good day, Mister Eustace." "Thanks, let's go," Eustace replied, the hum of the engine drowning his thoughts as he headed to Lucas's place.