The Accidental heir

Episode2

That evening, as she was leaving the office, Peterson met her in the lift. “Ms. Taylor, I see you still here,” he said, almost whispering.

Ava turned to him, her heart racing “Just putting in some extra hours, Mr. Richmond,” she said.

The lift doors closed, and were alone. Peterson's eyes were caged in hers and for a moment, Ava felt like she was drowning in them.

“I think we’re both going to get along just fine, Ms. Taylor,” he said, almost whispering.

Ava felt her heart skip. What did he mean by that? Was he really flirting? Before she could think, the lift doors opened, and Peterson was out.

“Goodnight, Ms. Taylor,” he said, almost mockingly.

Ava was watching him, and her heart was beating faster. Somehow, she felt that the turning point in her life was about to come.

The days were becoming a routine of meetings, presentations, and a lot of paperwork. I was working to prove myself with the challenges that were put to me by Peterson, and I seemed to be working to prove myself with the challenges that were put to me by Peterson, and I seemed to be working to prove myself with the challenges that were put to me by Peterson. I would tirelessly analyze and write reports.

One evening, as she was leaving the office, she was stopped in the hallway by Rachel. “Ava, Peterson wants to see you in his office.’” Rachel said, voice low.

Ava’s heart skipped a beat. What did Peterson want now? She had seen him briefly that morning, but he did not mention anything out of the ordinary.

“Thanks, Rachel,’” Ava said, smoothing her dress. “I’ll head up there now.’”

When she arrived at Peterson’s office, his assistant ushered her in without announcing her. Ava walked in, her confidence growing with each step.

Peterson looked up from his desk, his eyes piercing. “Ah, Ms. Taylor. Thank you for coming in.’”

Ava took a seat. “What can I do for you, Mr. Richmond?’”

Peterson looked at her again. “I have an invitation for you. A charity gala is being held tomorrow night, and I’d like you to be my guest.’” This made Ava’s eyes widen. A charity gala? With Peterson? She did not expect that. “I’m not sure that’s necessary, Mr. Richmond.’” She said, trying to play it cool.

Peterson reclined, the spark in his gaze betraying his intent. "Yes, I believe it is! Business will allow you the chance to integrate the social portion of your work."

Ava was uncharacteristically silent. She was weighing the idea of a high-profile gala, but the other side of her was unconvinced of Peterson's reasoning.

Ava tried to buy time. "Which charity?"

"The gala is for a children's hospital." Peterson was excited. "It is a worthy cause."

Ava, in no position to lose such an opportunity, gave in. "Fine, I will go."

Peterson was smiling now, "A car will be sent to you at seven tomorrow."

Excitement was new to her, though she knew she was foolish for it. Something told her it was going to be an interesting night.

The following evening, Ava stood before her closet, contemplating what to wear. It was a charity gala, and she finally chose a perfectly fitted gown, in red, that beautifully emphasized her figure.

She arrived at the gala, feeling like a princess, in a luxurious venue filled with some of the most influential people in the city. Ava started to socialize, confident with her growing ease.

She turned a corner and bumped into a figure she recognized - Peterson. He was part of a small group and had a drink in hand.

"Peterson," Ava said with what she hoped was a neutral tone. "I didn't know you were already here."

Peterson didn't answer straight away. He was staring at her. "I like to make an entrance," he added, in a low voice.

Peterson was still holding her hand. "Shall we?" he said, indicating the crowd.

Ava felt her heart race as she nodded, knowing something about this night would be special.

As she conversed with the other guests, Ava noticed the captivating charm of Peterson. For a while, he was a different person; one who was actually a bit more lighthearted. He even put her at ease, as she found herself laughing and smiling more as the night progressed.

As the night continued, she found herself more often wondering what he might be hiding. She could feel his gaze, and his slight narrowing of the eyes was perceptible as he wandered a bit too long in the vicinity of her.

What was he hiding? What was his intention?

As the night began to wane, Peterson said politely, “Would you care to join me for a stroll to the car?” The night air hit her in a more businesslike manner; she was more businesslike herself in the cool and decisive air, which was all too apparent and even audible in the shudder.

"I appreciate your time today," Ava said. "I appreciate your time today."

Peterson was glad to hear this. "I was just hoping that we would get to this moment," he said in a low voice. "I think we are just getting started, Ms. Taylor."

With those words, anticipation and anxiety filled Ava's mind. What was he getting at, and what other surprises did he have in store for her at Richmond Enterprises?

As she got in the car, Ava was happy, really happy. Something in her life was about to blossom.

Ava's days were dominated by a series of meetings and presentations. She was focused on proving her value to the company and to Peterson, who was always in her proximity. There was something magnetic about him that she found difficult to ignore, despite his sometimes brusque attitude.

While Eva was working late, Peterson came to the door and said, "Ms. Taylor, I need to see you in my office."

As she followed him to his office, Ava's heart raced. What did he want this time? Had enough time passed for them to have made some progress? She couldn't be sure of anything.

When they arrived at his office, Peterson closed the door. “I have a proposal for you,” he stated, his gaze trained on hers.

Ava's interest was stimulated. “What kind of proposal?” she inquired, attempting to sound indifferent.

Peterson reclined in his chair, his gaze fixed on her. “I want you to be my business partner,” he stated, lowering his voice.

Ava's expression changed. Partner? What did he mean? “I don’t think I understand,” she responded, attempting to clarify.

Peterson moved closer. “I want you to be my partner in business and in life,” he stated, lowering his voice.

Ava's heart raced. This was what P

eterson wanted. He wanted her to be his girlfriend, his partner in every sense of the word.