MAYA
My stomach was in knots as Mom and I stepped into the sleek, modern office building. The lunch meeting was being held in the executive dining area on the top floor.
I had changed into a modest but elegant cream-colored dress that hugged my curves just enough to feel confident, yet appropriate for a business setting. Still, my palms were sweaty and my heart wouldn’t stop racing.
“I don’t want to do this, Mom,” I whispered as we walked down the long corridor.
“You’ll be fine, sweetheart,” Mom said gently, squeezing my arm.
“Your father will be there. Tristan will be there. It’s just lunch. Andre’s father is pushing for this collaboration, but no one is forcing anything on you anymore. Just be polite.”
The mention of Tristan sent a different kind of flutter through me- dark, addi
