Love in white and black

Chapter 3

Olivia POV

Days have passed since the incident at the club. I woke up early, feeling like a kid on Christmas morning.

Today was the day I had been working towards and waiting for- the day that could change the course of my company's history.

The business meeting with the big and popular industry named Eclipse corporation, the industry giant that had been making waves in the business world with their innovative solutions and aggressive expansion strategies.

The business meeting was just hours away and I couldn't wait to get started.

As the CEO of Nova tech, a rising star in the tech industry, I had grown accustomed to the cutthroat nature of the business world and I was no stranger to challenges but today's business meeting had the potential to make or break our future.

As I rolled out of the bed, my mind was already racing with thoughts of the meeting.

I had prepared for weeks, rehearsing my pitch and anticipating every possible question. I was ready.

But as I began my morning routine, I couldn't shake off the feeling of uncertainty. What If we didn't secure the partnership? What If Eclipse Corporation didn't see the value in our company?

I pushed the thoughts aside and focused on the positive. We had worked hard to get to this point, and we deserved a chance to shine.

I jumped into the shower, feeling the warm water wash away any lingering doubts or fears.

I was filled with a sense of hope and anticipation, knowing that this meeting could be the key to unlocking my company's full potential.

As I got dressed, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and smiled. I looked confident and capable, ready to take on the world. And that's exactly what I planned to do.

With a spring in my step and a song in my heart, I headed to the kitchen, made a quick breakfast and a cup of coffee. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, as I sipped the coffee, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and gratitude.

As I finished my coffee, I glanced at my watch and made my way to the door heading to the office.

As I stepped out into the crisp morning air, I felt a sense of purpose and determination. Today was a big day and I was ready to tackle it head-on.

As I got to my office, my secretary Emily greeted me with a big smile on her face, “Good morning, Ma”.

“Good morning Emily, I hope you are ready to accompany me to the business meeting” I asked in a firm voice.

“Absolutely, Ma!” Emily replied, her eyes shining with excitement.

“I've got all the files and notes we need for the meeting. I'm ready when you are!” I smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude for my efficient and enthusiastic secretary.

“Great, let's get going then! We don't want to be late for the meeting”. Emily nodded and followed me out of the office, her heels clicking on the floor as we made our way to the elevator.

As we rode down to the lobby, I could feel my heart beating with anticipation. “This meeting had the potential to be a game changer for our company and I was determined to make it count”. I said countless times in my head.

When we arrived at the Eclipse corporation headquarters, Emily and I were greeted by a sleek, modern reception area and a friendly receptionist who showed us to the conference room.

As we waited in the conference room, the door swung open and a middle aged man with a strong, chiseled face strode in, his presence commanding attention like a mighty oak tree claiming it's territory.

His dark hair was flecked with hints of gray, like the first whispers of wisdom etched on his temples.

By his side, a young looking man with a gentle stylish figure glided in, his slender frame moving with the grace of a panther, his bright brown eyes shining like polished chestnuts.

His smooth unlined face seemed almost ethereal, as if he had yet to encounter the harsh realities of the corporate world, and his subtle smile hinted at a warm and approachable personality like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day.

As they approached the conference table, I stood up to greet them, my mind racing with thoughts that this imposing duo must be the CEO and his trusted lieutenant of this vast coronated ship.

Axel, the middle aged man, extended a firm hand, his grip confident and strong.

“Thank you for coming in today, Olivia and..”

“Emily, my secretary,” I responded.

“I'm Axel, the head of Innovation and this is Ethan, our business partner”.

Ethan nodded in greeting, his eyes friendly and approachable.

Axel continued, “ I apologize that our CEO, Mr Marcus, won't be able to join us today as planned. But please don't worry, we're fully authorized to move forward with the meeting and discuss the potential partnership between our companies”.

As we shook hands, I couldn't help but notice the contrast between the two men.

Axel exuded a sense of authority and leadership while Ethan seemed more approachable and friendly.

“Please, have a seat” Axel said gesturing to the conference table. “We've got a lot to discuss”.

As we sat down, Emily handed out copies of our proposal and I began my pitch, highlighting the key features and benefits of our technology.

As the meeting progressed, Axel's expression remained stern, his strong face a mask of seriousness. His eyes seemed to bore into me, as if scrutinizing every word, every detail.

His jawline was set, his lips pressed together in a firm line, giving the impression that he was not entirely pleased with the prospect of partnering with us.

Despite his polished demeanor, a hint of skepticism lingered in his eyes, a subtle furrowing of his brow that suggested he was not entirely convinced of the benefits of this collaboration.

His body language was tense, his posture straight and unyielding, as if he was bracing himself for a challenge.

In contrast, Ethan's enthusiasm was palpable, his smile warm and encouraging, he leaned forward, his eyes shining with excitement as he asked questions and sought clarification on various points.

His energy was infectious and I found myself responding to his positivity, my own enthusiasm, growing as we discussed the possibilities.

As the meeting drew to a close, Axel nodded curtly and stood up, his expression still unreadable.

“Thank you, Olivia and Emily,” he said with a firm voice. “We'll need to discuss this further among ourselves. Please wait outside for a moment”.

Ethan smiled apologetically and also stood up, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Sorry for the delay, Ladies. We'll be with you shortly”.

I nodded gathering my things, and Emily and I stepped out into the hallway, leaving the two men to their private discussion.

The door closed behind us and we exchanged a curious glance.

“I wonder what's going on” Emily whispered, her eyes sparkling with intrigue.

“Do you think they're having second thoughts?” I shrugged, my mind racing with possibilities.

“Maybe.. but Ethan seemed really enthusiastic. I hope Axel's reserve is just a negotiating tactic”.

Emily leaned in close and whispered, “I'll be right back, I need to use the restroom” she gestured discreetly towards the ladies room down the hall.

I nodded trying to appear nonchalant.

“Okay, go ahead. I'll wait here”.

As Emily walked away, I causally leaned against the wall, trying to appear relaxed. But my ears were straining to pick up any snippet of conversation from the conference room.

Axel's deep voice was muffled, but I could make out a few words here and there.

“...risk… investment…not convinced…” I held my breath hoping to hear more, but the conversation was interrupted when I heard a noise at my back, Who are you?

My heart raced as I stumbled backwards, my feet tangling in a faint swoon.

But instead of falling, I felt a strong arm wrap around my waist, pulling me close to a chest that seemed familiar.

I looked up, my gaze colliding with the piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through me.

For a moment, I was lost in their depths, my mind struggling to place where I had seen those eyes before.

His dark hair, chiseled features seemed familiar but I couldn't quite pinpoint him.

“Who are you?” He demanded again.

“I…I'm Olivia, I stammered trying to regain my composure, “And I'm not eavesdropping, I was told to wait outside”.

He gave me a rude and brief stare, but it left me feeling like an insect under a microscope.

Without a word, he turned and strode into the conference room, leaving me feeling dismissed and belittled.