THE DEAL BETWEEN US

The Deal

The flight to Makati felt impossibly short.

How could a one-hour-plus flight shrink to thirty minutes.

I watched the baggage carousel spin lazily . My chest felt tight, and a dull, frustrating ache had settled over me. I didn’t even want to go to Boracay and now ... I wasn't even sure why I didn't want to leave.

Priscilla stood beside me, scrolling through her phone, calm and unbothered.

“You know,” she said lightly, not looking up, “we should have stayed the extra night. One more wouldn’t have killed the project—or whatever it is we’re going to do.”

I didn’t respond immediately. “If I had stayed extra nights,” I said, keeping my voice level, “The Kalix Architecture wouldn’t be… The Kalix Architecture.”

She smiled, " you only believe that because you're a workaholic".

The car ride back to Makati was thick with silence . There was nothing to discuss between us—Priscilla and I had nothing in common since high school, and the gap between us had only widened.

The city rose around us again —steel, glass , ambition stacked on top of exhaustion, billboards and traffic as usual.

By the time we reached the office building, my chest felt tight.

The lobby buzzed with unusual urgency . Phones ringing, heels clicking. Voices overlapping..

"She's here".

"That's Cassandra".

"She's early"

"Welcome mam"

"Thank God".

I barely had time to breathe before I was ushered into the conference room.

The mega project presentation was already up on the screen—charts, projections, raw materials, logistics, potential competitors, possible alliances, international partners. This was big.

My parents sat at the far end of the table, alert. The moment I walked in, their shoulders eased.

“Cassandra,” my mother said, walking toward me and planting a quick kiss on my cheek. “Good—you made it. How was your flight?”

“Quite short,” I replied, keeping my expression neutral, and we walked back to the table with Priscilla at our heels.

At the table, Priscilla took a seat a little too close to me for comfort.

The meeting began. Strategies unfolded, opinions flew like bullets, and I barely kept my thoughts from scattering across the room , my head felt like it wanted to explode. I had never handled something this big before, and yet… I was holding it together, I was really surprised at my coping mechanism.

“The only problem we have,” someone said, “is that the government wants to award this contract to a company capable of handling structure and raw materials to save costs.”

I muttered under my breath, “Damn… couldn’t you have said this earlier?”

I opened my mouth to respond—

But Priscilla beat me to it.

“I’ve actually worked with most of the raw materials supplier companies in the sector before I came here,” she said smoothly, folding her hands on the table. “I could talk to some of them, assist Cassandra, and take that pressure off.”

“Well, that’s very kind and strategic of you, Miss Priscilla,” my father said.

“In that case, this meeting is adjourned until we find an alliance,” my mother said.

A few moments later, the conference room was empty except for me and Priscilla.

My phone buzzed on the table. I glanced at the screen—Phillip.

I wasn’t in the mood to talk. I turned it face down.

Priscilla’s eyes flicked toward the phone, knowing exactly who it was. Her smile didn’t falter.

“So, Cassy,” she said, voice smooth, calm, calculating, “are you going home today, or to your parents’ place?”

“No. Why?” I asked, curious.

“You see…” she started, her tone casual, “I thought we could have that dinner we used to have with your parents when we were in high school.”

“Ooh, too bad,” I said, waving it off. “My house’s a mess, and I really need to clean. Maybe next time?”

“Sure, next time,” she said, perfectly calm, no protest— very unlike her.

Priscilla’s heels clicked lightly on the marble floor as she approached the Kalix residence. The street was quiet—typical luxury. She checked her reflection in the car mirror one last time, smoothed her hair, and smiled. Sweet, polite, perfectly harmless.

The door opened before she could even ring.

“Priscilla? What a surprise!” Mrs. Kalix greeted warmly, curiosity and confusion flickering in her voice.

“Oh, hello Mrs. Kalix! How are you? Where’s Cassy?” Priscilla asked, tilting her head innocently.

“Cassy?!” Mrs. Kalix frowned. “She isn’t here, I’m afraid. Did you two have some kind of appointment?”

“Well… she did invite me over for dinner,” Priscilla lied, her tone light.

Mrs. Kalix blinked. “I must say I wasn’t informed about that. Perhaps she forgot—she’s in a meeting now. Poor thing must be exhausted to have forgotten entirely,” she sighed.

“Hmm… I guess I’ll just go home then—”

“No, actually,” Mrs. Kalix stepped aside. “Dinner is ready. Please, join us.”

“Of course, ma’am,” Priscilla said, smiling sweetly.

One obstacle down, two more to go. Just you wait, Cassandra, she murmured silently.

Priscilla stepped in, letting her eyes sweep the living room, pretending to be concerned. “Oh… I can imagine how busy she must be. Managing everything on her own must be… exhausting. She barely had time for herself, and today she forgot a schedule she made with me.” Her voice was soft, almost sympathetic—but the glint in her eyes and crack in her voice almost betrayed her.

Mr. Kalix, already seated at the dining table opposite her, furrowed his brows. “Well, she is handling the mega project. She’s very capable.”

Priscilla’s polite mask didn’t falter. “Oh! Good evening, Uncle. I didn’t see you there.”

“It’s fine. Come, sit,” he said, pointing to the chair across from him.

Priscilla walked over quickly, whispering under her breath, everything is going according to plan.

“How’s your health, Uncle?” she asked, feigning concern.

“Better, actually. But there’s something I want to discuss before dinner is served,” he said.

“Go on, Uncle, I’m all ears,” Priscilla replied, grinning from ear to ear like a sheep.

“You said you’ve worked with different raw materials suppliers in the sector,” he started. “How do you intend to get them to agree?”

Priscilla smiled softly. “Yes, I have, Uncle. I do have a way—but, you know how these things are. After the meeting this afternoon, I tried to tell Cassy something that might help—but you know her… always stubborn.”

Mr. Kalix’s eyes flickered. “What do you mean?”

“Oh, nothing much,” she said lightly, letting her voice drop, “just the project, the marketers, the potential partners… like the Cooper industry. It’s a lot for one person. I thought I could offer some advice—from a different perspective.”

Mrs kalix who had already joined them on the table leaned in, intrigued. “The Cooper industry?”

“Yes,” Priscilla said, voice gentle but firm. “I know you really want a partnership with them. There’s a conference banquet this week—the Greenfield Minecraft are hosting it. Cassandra already declined, but they’re still persuading the Kalix Architecture to attend. The Cooper family will be there. Even if the government awards the project to a company, they’ll likely favor the Coopers first and then seek a partner. This banquet… it’s key. Cassandra might need guidance. Maybe a little more than a business alliance.” She let her words linger. “I heard their heir is single… so we could debate a family alliance. After all, Cassy is a big catch.”

Mrs. Kalix leaned forward, intrigued. “A family alliance? You mean…”

“Yes,” Priscilla said, curling her lips into a faint, polite smile. “Sometimes when two families with similar interests work together, things go easier. The project could really succeed if Cassandra is positioned right. Of course, it’s your decision, but I thought it was worth mentioning.”

She let the words hang for a beat, then nodded lightly. “I just thought I’d share. But it’s okay if you’re not comfortable with it.”

Mrs. Kalix smiled faintly, considering the idea. “Thanks, Priscilla. That was very thoughtful of you.”

“Anytime,” Priscilla replied, perfectly calm.

The oven chimed. Mrs. Kalix rushed back to the kitchen.

“I think the chicken is ready,” Mr. Kalix chuckled, easing the tension.

Priscilla leaned back in her seat, eyes glinting just slightly. They’ve taken the bait. By the banquet, everything will move exactly where I want. Cassandra won’t see it coming. I better make sure the Kalix family and the Coopers end up at the same table… now the real fun begins.

The Cooper residence was alive with quiet urgency. The sun had set, but the house was bright with chandeliers and muted conversations. Mark leaned against the grand staircase, arms crossed, watching his parents move with purpose.

“Mark,” Mrs. Cooper said sharply, her tone leaving no room for argument, “you are going to that banquet tonight. The Greenfield event—yes, it’s important. I want you there. You need to see what potential partners are out there, especially the Kalix Architecture.”

“I told you, Mom,” Mark replied, voice flat. “I’m not interested in this evening’s theatrics. I don’t need to schmooze to secure business. I can handle it from the office.”

Mrs. Cooper’s brow furrowed. “This isn’t just ‘schmoozing.’ These alliances—these connections—can make or break the mega project. You will go.”

“I’m still not going,” he said firmly, stepping back. “If it’s about business, I can handle emails, meetings, calls. I don’t need a banquet to do it.”

His father, silent until now, finally interjected. “Mark, this isn’t just about work. It’s about positioning ourselves. Seeing potential alliances in person—understanding their intentions. You have to at least look at the options.”

Mark’s jaw tightened. “I said no.”

Mrs. Cooper shifted, softer now but just as firm. “And Jasmine? Think about her. She’s sensible, from a family that has resources, influence… she could complement the company if things go well. You should consider her tonight, at least look.”

Mark’s eyes flashed. “Jasmine? Mom, I’m not marrying anyone, not tonight, not anytime soon. I’ll do business my way, not with someone I haven’t chosen.”

She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Mark, if you want to secure this mega project, you will go tonight. Not to flirt, not to date—just observe. That’s all I ask.”

“I said no,” Mark repeated, shaking his head. Then, without waiting for another word, he walked out of the room, out of the house, leaving his parents behind.

The echo of his footsteps on the marble floor lingered. Mrs. Cooper exchanged a look with Mr. Cooper, their expressions a mix of frustration and“He has to understand... sometimes business isn’t just numbers and contracts. Sometimes it’s people.”

“And sometimes,” Mr. Cooper added quietly, “people will surprise you, one way or another.”

The banquet hall glittered under chandeliers, the hum of conversations and clinking glasses filling the air. I entered with my parents, the scent of fresh flowers and polished marble surrounding them. They were escorted to a long, elegantly set table—and, as fate would have it, the Cooper family was already seated there.

“Ah, the Kalix family,” Mr. Cooper said, standing politely to greet them. “Please, join us.”

I and my parents took our seats, the table buzz with introductions and small talk. As platters of food were served, the conversation naturally drifted toward business.

“I must say,” Mr. Cooper began, his eyes lighting up with recognition, " I was told our company supplied raw materials to Kalix Architecture’s urban estate project three weeks ago.

I passed by the estate recently truly a beautiful development. I heard it was well-received?”

Mr. Kalix nodded proudly. “Yes, it was. And, if I may say, my Cassandra played a significant role in leading that project. She oversaw most of the design and coordination herself.”

I felt a small warmth of pride, though I kept my expression neutral.

“Really?” Mrs. Cooper leaned forward, intrigued. “You were the head architect for that project?”.

“Yes, ma’am,” I said smoothly, “I handled the planning, the coordination with the suppliers—including the Cooper Company—and the execution phases. It was an intensive but rewarding experience.”

Mr. Cooper’s eyes widened slightly. “I must say, impressive for someone so young. Where did you study architecture?”.

“Cornell University, sir,” I replied. “I completed my undergraduate degree there, but I did my internship here in the Philippines, after graduation.

Mrs. Cooper nodded appreciatively. “Cornell? That is prestigious. And your internship…?”

I smiled faintly. “At your company, actually. I spent six months there assisting with material sourcing and project planning.”

Mr. Cooper’s eyebrows lifted. “Ah, that explains the professionalism in your approach. I remember our meeting reports—very thorough, very insightful. Your business acumen and communication skills were remarkable, even during your internship.

The Kalix parents exchanged proud glances, their daughter quietly basking in the recognition.

Just then my eyes landed on a familiar face across the hall—Belinda, a high school friend I hadn’t seen in years. “Excuse me for a moment,” I said politely, rising. “I just saw someone I know and need to say hello.”

I slipped away, leaving my parents at the table with the Coopers.

The conversation shifted naturally toward the mega project, the alliances, and potential collaborations. Mr. Cooper leaned in slightly.

Lowering his voice." I would really love to collaborate with you Mr and Mrs kalix to get this mega project. But I have a suggestion". He said .

“You know,” he said carefully, “sometimes, the strongest partnerships aren’t just business—they’re personal. If our families were to consider a formal alliance, perhaps it could be cemented through… marriage of the heirs. It would signal commitment and stability to the government and investors alike.”

Mrs. Kalix’s eyes widened slightly but she considered it thoughtfully. “It’s… strategic. It could indeed ensure the success of the project if handled correctly.”

Mrs. Cooper exchanged a look with her husband, hesitant but intrigued. “It’s certainly unconventional… but practical. It might be worth exploring.”

Mr. Kalix nodded slowly. “Cassandra is capable, and pairing her with your heir would strengthen both our companies’ positions. If we are to consider such an arrangement, it should be approached carefully—but I see the merit.”

The discussion continued, weighing the benefits and logistics, the tension between caution and opportunity palpable.

" Well " Mr kalix said raising his glass , after the deal had been concluded. " I think we should make a toast , to new beginnings.

"To new beginnings" they all echoed and toasted. "As glasses clinked, a quiet weight lingered over the table—the beginnings of an alliance, personal and professional, now set in motion."

Belinda and I stepped onto the quiet street, the night air cool against our skin.

“That banquet was… so boring,” Belinda groaned, adjusting her clutch. “Why do our parents insist on dragging us to these things?.

I laughed softly, shaking my head. “I know. And the way they keep reminding us about networking… it’s exhausting. Honestly, the food was fine, but the speeches—ugh, I can’t even.”

We approached my apartment building, but as I got closer, I froze—the door was slightly ajar.

“Wait… why is the door open?” I muttered, stepping closer.

Peeking inside, my jaw dropped. Gabrielle and Michael were perched on my living room chairs, balancing precariously, bowls of popcorn in hand, a movie paused on the TV screen.

“Well, well, well,” Michael said, smirking as he spotted me. “Look who’s back from corporate chaos. I heard today was some boring banquet?”

“Aren’t y’all supposed to be in Boracay?!” I exclaimed.

Gabrielle giggled. “We missed you. Plain and simple. So we came back.”

Michael leaned forward conspiratorially, eyes sparkling. “And guess what? I met someone in Boracay… someone amazing. Total heart eyes, Cass. I’m talking major crush energy.”

I blinked. “Wait… you met a guy?!”

Michael grinned mischievously. “Yup. His name is… let’s just say he’s a total snack and knows how to flirt properly. Boracay really works its magic, huh?”

Belinda raised an eyebrow. “Wait, Michael… seriously?”

“Very seriously,” he said, tossing a popcorn kernel into his mouth with dramatic flair. “Your boy Michael is officially smitten. And yes, Belinda… very single, so dreams do come true in Boracay.”

I shook my head, laughing despite myself. “You two are impossible.”

Belinda giggled. “Okay, now I see why you insisted on coming back early. This is way more entertaining than that banquet.”

"I actually didn't even know we'd meet them here" . I told her.

We all settled around the coffee table, popcorn bowls in hand. Gabrielle kept teasing Michael mercilessly while he exaggerated every detail about his Boracay crush, making Belinda and me laugh until our stomachs hurt.

Then my phone buzzed on the table. I glanced down and froze. My mom’s name was on the screen.

“I’ll just… take this for a sec,” I said, trying to steady my voice. Excusing myself

I swiped to answer, thinking maybe she was scared since I didn't tell her I was leaving the banquet yet.

“Hello, Nanay" (mom).

“Cassandra? Oh thank goodness!"her voice was calm. " Where did you go to , we've been looking for you , and you weren't picking your calls ", she said .

“Pasensya na, Nanay” (sorry mom). I said . "Just left early with Belinda, that's all, we're at my house". I added trying to ease her mind.

" okay, We need to talk… about something important.” she said tensed suddenly.

I raised an eyebrow, trying to hide the sudden tension. “Oh? What is it, Mom?”

"You're getting married !"