Beneath The Crown

The Ballroom II

JAI POV

They returned to their conversation with a shared smile, taking refuge in the sincerity of their communication amidst the bustle of personalities at the gathering.

Their talk glided with warmth, neither noticing that their words might indicate a hidden truth.

"Anyway, not to intrude or anything, what keeps you occupied in the business world?" Yala asked curiously.

"No worries." She answered her playfully, saying, "Our family business has been focusing on luxury goods for generations." And then she sipped her wine.

"That sounds fascinating," Yala replied, her interest piqued. "Could you tell me more about what your company specializes in?" she added.

"Our company has a strong focus on fine jewelry, high-end accessories and luxury clothes," She further explained, a glint of pride in her eyes. "We believe in merging exquisite craftsmanship with timeless design."

Yala nodded appreciatively. "That is simply remarkable. I'm sure your products are a homage to your family's legacy."

I can sense a subtle change in Yala's demeanor. She was quiet for a few seconds as if contemplating something heavy.

"By any chance, are you related to Mr. & Mrs. Harlow of Harlow Conglomerate?" Yala asked with an urgency in her tone.

I am an only child, and even my parents are under the constant limelight; they sheltered me as much as they could from the world, thus minimizing my appearance. It's only been a year since they slowly introduced me to the industry despite my involvement in the company.

"I am their daughter," I answered hesitantly, as I don't go around telling people that fact, but it seemed like she had already unwoven me.

"My family's business is in the same industry." Yala looked me in the eye.

"Which one?" sometimes, I feel so awkward with my question, but it is too late to take it back.

"Lewis," Yala answered simply while sipping her wine.

"Wait, you mean... you're from that company?" I wondered why we didn't know each other when we were in the same industry.

Yala nodded, "Guilty as charged. Our families' businesses have quite the history." She said flatly.

"This is unexpected. I mean, I had no idea. We're supposed to be competitors, aren't we?" I paused, looking conflicted. Is it something I'm supposed to be saying?

"In the boardroom, perhaps." Yala looked at me again, but now with a subtle smile.

We were silent for quite a while until I broke the silence.

"It's interesting how our families have built such successful empires. It's almost like we're both part of this legacy that's larger than ourselves." I said while looking around as if divulging every detail of the party.

"You're right. The weight of our families' histories and businesses is something we both carry." Yala agreed.

"It's quite a world we live in, isn't it?" my eyes fixated on the decor before me.

"Indeed. The expectations, the responsibilities—it can feel overwhelming at times." Yala nods, now looking at me.

I felt so awkward that I wanted to crawl back into the cocoon that had been cradling me for years. Despite rising through the ranks of society and meeting notable people, I always wanted to retreat to my comfort zone.

"I really wanted to stay longer but had some work to finish." Yala looked at her watch and then grabbed her belongings, preparing to stand up.

Did I offend her somehow? Why would she want to leave suddenly? Dismissing her thoughts, she answered, "It's all right. I'll go home shortly as well."

"Hmm, if it's okay, can I have your phone number?" Yala inquired, a gleam of hope in her eyes and a hint of hesitance in her voice.

Usually, she would hand people her business card or her assistant's phone number, but it didn't feel right this time. So she eagerly gives her phone number, and Yala calls her phone so she has her phone number.

Once again, the two parted with uncertainty, bearing the warmth of their shared memories. But you know how life has a funny way of mixing people, don't you?

YALA POV

Her heart tightened with what she discovered. The connection she felt, the admiration she nurtured, was now linked to the dynamic growth of their family's businesses.

Their conversation took on a bittersweet turn, a mixture of genuine connection and the burden of responsibility. I tried to balance my feelings with the reality of the situation. Yet I found the road to a potential relationship littered with obstacles and unexpected challenges.

Despite the unexpected revelation, the connection they formed can not be denied. Their shared interests, aspirations, and undeniable chemistry that drew them together were still very much there. But then, their relationship was built on competition and rivalry, adding complexity to what could have been a simple romance.

As the evening progressed, l became overwhelmed with emotion. I am torn between the desires of my heart and the practical considerations accompanying their situation. Her encounters with her had given her a mixture of conflicting emotions – the excitement of finally meeting someone with the same wavelength as hers and the weight of a competition that threatened to tear them apart.

But on top of all this, is Jai the same as me regarding my preferences, or am I just putting a different meaning on Jai’s kindness?