SACRICIFICAL VOWS: LOVE UNVEILED

CHAPTER FOUR

Ryan

I parked in the garage, and I quickly headed towards the huge glass building that housed my company. I entered the boardroom wearing a sharp suit that fitted me nicely and a perfectly knotted tie.

As I took my seat at the end of the long mahogany table, I looked around the room at my trusted executives. Papers and tablets were carefully piled, ready to be checked and reviewed, while data visualizations displayed the company's performance on the walls.

I cleared my throat and started the meeting by talking about recent achievements. As I delved deeper into the exhaustive sales data, my attention was drawn to the remarkable statistics in front of me. Revenues had surpassed all expectations. It was a result of my team's persistent efforts and thorough plans.

I thanked the marketing team for their creative campaigns, the finance team for efficiently managing the company's money, and the manufacturing team for their commitment to quality.

"I am determined that we must embrace new technologies and adapt our sales processes to meet the needs of modern customers," I said firmly.

"Let us unlock our innovative potential and create a customer-first environment that will set us apart from our competitors." I said

Silence filled the room as most of the executives were old and did not want to change the way things were done.

Beth, my personal assistant, stood up and tried to buttress my point after seeing the looks on their faces.

"Ryan is correct," she said firmly. The progress of our company cannot be hindered by a fear of change. It's time to step outside of our comfort zones, take calculated risks, and adjust our sales strategy to better meet shifting customer needs.

Executives started to speak up for change one by one after Beth's little speech. The atmosphere in the room changed as excitement and determination filled the space.

One of the executives abruptly spoke up, drawing everyone's attention. "Ryan, our competitors are coming hard on us. Okay! After embracing new technologies and changing the way of things, people still think you’re not enough. Our investors needs to be rest assured about their investment, you need to continue your father’s legacy! You need heir!," I looked at him not knowing what to say “I think I need I need to step up these old men never gets tired of this particular topic” I thought to myself as he continued “We need to know your thoughts on getting married and producing a heir that we discussed at our last meeting.”

The room fell silent, all eyes locked on me. My heart sank as I struggled to comprehend the situation. “I’m working on it,” I replied

The executive carried on. "We believe that the public's perception of your personal life will have a significant impact on the company." You're not taking your position seriously. What actions are you taking to find a wife? You must keep us informed".

Disbelief spun through my mind. The idea appeared absurd. "I will keep you updated, and as I previously stated, I am working on it." I replied grudgingly.

I heaved a sigh of relief when the meeting room doors swung open. After the long meeting was over, I was ready to get a cup of coffee and relax. As I reached for my phone in my pocket, it vibrated, signifying an incoming call from my aunt, Carol. Curiosity piqued, I answered the call. "Hello, Aunt Carol. What's up?"

Aunt Carol's voice crackled through the phone, "Ryan, my dear boy, it's been far too long since we last spoke." "I hope you've been doing well."

I chuckled. "I'm doing well, Aunt Carol. Just had a demanding meeting, but nothing I can't handle. What about you?"

"Oh, the usual, you know," She replied. "But that's not why I called. I need to see you."

My eyebrows raised in surprise. Aunt Carol was full of surprises, but this time, I couldn't predict what was coming. "Alright, Aunt Carol, do I need to come over immediately?"

No, sweetie. Why don’t we meet up for supper tonight? I've been wanting to try a nice little bistro. "I'll tell you everything then," she continued, her voice becoming more cheerful and kind.

Relieved by her response, I agreed, "Sounds good, Aunt Carol. What time and where?"

"Let's say 7 o'clock at Le Jardin. It's just off Broadway. I'll make the reservation," She replied, her excitement noticeable.

My Aunt, who until now had never requested unexpected gatherings, made an unusual offer for dinner at a little cafe. I couldn't shake the feeling that something important was on her mind. I trusted her and promised to be present.

I noticed that my curiosity increased as nightfall approached. I entered the bistro, drawn in by its inviting atmosphere. When I arrived, Aunt Carol was already seated and had a radiant smile on her face. I gave her a big hug and couldn't help but smile.

We began our meal with light conversation, catching up on each other's lives. But as the main course arrived, Aunt Carol grew serious. She put down her fork and looked me squarely in the eyes.

“Have you made a decision?.” She asked.

I gave a dry chuckle. "I almost forgot you're on the board." But marriage can be difficult, and I'm looking for someone nice who will agree to my terms."

Aunt carol let out a long sigh. Well, I might have a solution to your problem. She replied as she tossed a file on the table.

I went through the file, which contained the information of a young lady.

"I spoke with the girl's mother, and she agreed to our terms. I'll set up a meeting with the girl tomorrow, and you must go."

I looked at my aunt and I remember how much strength she put in to build the company with my father and how much she cares about me

"Aunt Carol, it has been a wonderful evening, truly," I said, taking a final sip of coffee, "but I must take my leave."

Aunt Carol's face changed from pleasure to disappointment, but she immediately regained her composure and smiled at me. "Oh, dear, I get it. After all, duty calls. Ryan, thanks for a lovely evening. Let's try this shortly again.

I thought about Aunt Carol's words as I made my way through the comfortable streets to my luxurious penthouse.

I felt a stab of loneliness as I climbed the enormous staircase of my house, a feeling I rarely recognized. I had devoted my entire life to growing my family's business, with no time for the pleasures of romance or connection.

I poured myself a glass of aged scotch and headed towards the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. The colorful lights of the skyline appeared to reflect the complexities of my thoughts. Was marriage the missing piece to my success?

As I entered my bedroom, my gaze was drawn to the massive stack of paperwork that sat on my desk, awaiting my attention. But I was unable to handle the idea of digging more into the complexity of the corporate world tonight.

I kicked off my shinning leather shoes and untied my tie, feeling a little sensation of release. I put on a cozy pair of pajamas, lie down on my bed, closed my eyes, and sighed in exhaustion.