Maiden Passion

Chapter 9

The early morning sun cast a golden hue over Lagos, its rays bouncing off the towering buildings that lined the business district. Inside Boca Holdings Company, Ben sat in his office, staring at the financial reports laid out before him. The numbers were sobering. His father, Chief Laz, had managed to keep the company afloat, but the debts were still a looming shadow. If something wasn’t done soon, Boca Holdings could crumble under the weight of its obligations.

But Ben wasn’t just focusing on Boca Holdings. Vinx Wrist Collections, his startup luxury wristwatch company, was beginning to take shape. He had already secured a production deal in Switzerland and was in the process of finalizing branding strategies. Yet, the competition in the luxury market was fierce, and he needed a stronger financial backing to make Vinx a household name.

A Strategic Move

Ben leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples as he considered his next move. He had a lunch meeting with a potential investor later in the day—an American businessman interested in African markets. If this deal went through, it could provide Vinx with the push it needed to establish itself.

He tapped a pen rhythmically against the desk, reviewing the investor’s background. Jared Matthews—CEO of an investment firm known for taking calculated risks in emerging markets. If Ben could present Vinx as a symbol of Afro-European luxury with global appeal, Matthews might just bite.

His phone buzzed, interrupting his thoughts. It was Tomiwa, his right-hand man.

"Boss, I have updates on the suppliers you requested," Tomiwa’s deep voice came through the speaker.

"Good. Let’s meet in my private office in an hour."

Tomiwa had been instrumental in helping Ben navigate both the corporate and underground worlds of Lagos. His background as a former security expert gave him an edge in handling delicate business negotiations and uncovering hidden threats. Ben trusted him more than anyone.

Before heading out, Ben glanced at another report—one detailing the debts Boca Holdings owed to certain “silent investors.” He frowned. Some of these names didn’t sit well with him. If his father had taken money from the wrong people, there could be serious consequences.

Collins’ Recklessness Strikes Again

Just as Ben was about to step out, his secretary knocked and entered.

"Sir, there’s a problem with Mr. Collins’ financial reports."

Ben sighed. His elder brother, Collins, had once again made a reckless business move.

"What did he do this time?" he asked, already expecting the worst.

"He withdrew a large sum from the company account to fund a private casino event… in Dubai."

Ben’s grip tightened on the folder in his hands. Collins had a history of financial blunders, gambling, and making impulsive decisions. If their father found out about this, it would only add to the existing tension in the family.

"Does Chief Laz know?"

"Not yet. But if this isn’t handled quickly, the board might bring it up in the next meeting."

Ben took a deep breath. He had no time for Collins’ foolishness, but he also couldn’t allow this to damage Boca Holdings’ reputation.

"Leave this to me," he said, already forming a plan to clean up his brother’s mess.

He sent a quick message to Tomiwa: We may need a silent fixer for Collins. Call in Jide if needed.

A Shadow in the Dark

As Ben stepped out to meet Tomiwa, Frank, his father’s personal assistant, watched him from across the hall. Frank had his own hidden agenda, secretly feeding information to a powerful mystery figure who had ties to Boca Holdings’ competitors.

He lingered by the window, eyes following Ben until he disappeared into the elevator. Pulling out his phone, Frank typed a quick message:

"Ben is moving too fast. He’s making business connections we didn’t anticipate. What are your orders?"

A few seconds later, a reply came.

"Watch him. Don’t interfere yet."

Frank smirked. Ben thought he was in control, but he had no idea who was really pulling the strings.

He turned his attention to a secure email he’d received earlier—encrypted files detailing Ben’s upcoming investor lunch. Frank began compiling a profile on Jared Matthews, feeding the intel back to his handler. If Ben sealed this deal, it would elevate him beyond Boca Holdings—and that made him a threat.

Lunch with a Lion

Later that afternoon, Ben arrived at The Orchid Room, an exclusive restaurant tucked into Victoria Island’s commercial hub. Jared Matthews sat waiting at a corner booth, a tall glass of mango juice in hand.

"Ben Laz," Jared stood and extended his hand. "I've been following your progress. Vinx could be something big."

Ben offered a measured smile. "It will be. I didn’t come here for small talk. I came to build something that outlasts us both."

Jared raised an eyebrow. "I like that. Show me what makes Vinx different."

Ben opened his tablet and began his pitch—an African-inspired luxury watch, Swiss engineering, African gold, handcrafted leather bands, and limited edition timepieces named after great African kingdoms.

Jared listened intently. "And what’s your biggest risk?"

"Not securing the right allies fast enough," Ben answered honestly. "There are enemies in the shadows who don’t want this to succeed."

Jared leaned back, intrigued. "Then you’d better make sure I’m the right kind of ally."

They clinked glasses. The conversation was just beginning.