MURMURS IN AFFLUENCE

ISABELLA STONE I glare at my phone as another rejection email pops up on the screen. Seriously?! “We’re almost there, Ms. Stone,” the driver says from the front, but I barely register his words. My boss has been trying for weeks to secure a meeting with Vertex Solutions to resolve conflicting interests in a high-stakes merger deal. I read through the email again. Due to his ongoing commitments, he will not be available for a meeting at this time. We appreciate your understanding and will notify you should his schedule open up in the future. Best regards, Michael Tran Executive Assistant to Alex Smith, CEO of Vertex Solutions Alex Smith… For what feels like the fiftieth time, I contemplate storming his office, but that would only get me thrown out on my ass. I know he isn’t the one replying to these emails, but the endless brush-offs from his secretary are infuriating. I can’t even accost him in the street. Usually, I’d have done my homework on him, but the man is like a ghost—no pictures, just a string of impressive business stats. Taking a deep breath, I draft a reply requesting a reschedule. The likelihood that it would be met with another excuse is high, and that’s what annoys me most. Signing off the email with my initials, I hit send and lean back in my seat, the tension still coiled tight in my shoulders. Just as I’m about to turn off my screen and tuck my phone into my purse, it buzzes with an incoming call. I glance at the caller ID — it's from Yoshida Industries. My heart skips a beat. Finally! “Good afternoon, Ms. Stone. This is Hana Saito, Mr. Mozaki's secretary. Mr. Mozaki would like to speak with you regarding your recent proposal.” Oh! A wave of relief washes over me. Looks like the day isn’t a total bust. “Of course, Ms. Saito. I'm available to speak with Mr. Mozaki now.” There's a brief pause, followed by a click as the call is transferred. “Mr. Mozaki, thank you for reaching out. I presume you have given thought to our proposal?” I think back to my correspondence with Yoshida Inc. to see if I had missed anything while Mozaki references points from the information I had shared with his secretary. Beside me, my boss sits, casually sipping on a glass of something bubbly. He seems untouched, in his own little world, but I know he’s listening to everything I’m saying. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to relax with a glass of champagne in hand while someone else handles things. Lucky guy… The effervescent liquid catches the light and for a moment, it looks oddly distracting. “Ms. Stone, I appreciate your offer but I will rather work with a company that suits our goals better,” an accented voice drags me back to the present. A surge of panic courses through me. I can almost feel my blood pressure spike. s**t! We can't lose this guy. “Mr. Mozaki,” I blurt, unravelling a bit. “Danforth Inc. would be a great ally in easing your entry into the States. We have an extensive business network and a strong reputation for facilitating international partnerships. I assure you, a collaboration with us will significantly streamline the regulatory processes. In addition, we offer market insights and logistical support.” Outside, the cityscape blurs past, a dizzying array of lights and shadows playing on the glass. Cool breeze from an open window tousles my hair, and I tuck a stray strand behind my ear, trying to stay focused as Mozaki’s voice drones on, each word a potential nail in our coffin. Not literally, but Mozaki’s company was supposed to be a springboard to launch Danforth Inc. into Asia. Sure, we have other options, but Yoshida Inc. is one of the known tech heavyweights in Asia. Collaborating with him would be like getting a stamp of approval, which would go a long way in easing Danforth’s entry into the Asian tech sphere. I wouldn’t tell him that, though. Besides, my boss wants Yoshida Inc., so he’ll get Yoshida Inc. I just need to reel Mozaki back in. “Mr. Mozaki…” “Ms. Stone…” He interrupts. I pause, listening intently as he speaks. “There’s someone else?” My breath hitches, cheeks coloring in anger. I begin counting in my head, a technique to maintain control. One, two, three, four, five. Orange wouldn’t look good on you, Isabella. Taking a deep breath, I respond in the nicest tone I can muster. “No problem at all, Mr. Mozaki. We will revisit our proposal and get back to you with an even better offer. Thank you for your time.” Ending the call, I glance at my boss, who raises an eyebrow over the rim of his glass. “Trouble?” What do I reply to that? ‘Yeah? Maybe? I hope not?’ The taste of defeat is sour, grainy, and vile. It makes my stomach churn. My mind races, trying to piece together our next move. “Mr. Mozaki thinks he’s got a better offer,” I reply, forcing a smile that I hope doesn’t look as strained as it feels. “I wonder who it could be.” “Did he say who?” I wish! A snort escapes my lips. “If he did, I’d have said it now, wouldn’t I?” “Tsk, tsk, tsk… that smart mouth of yours.” He leans closer, his breath warm against my cheek. “I wonder how much time we have…” His voice trails off as he wiggles his brows suggestively, eyes zeroing in on my lips. “Daniel…” The thought of kissing him is as tempting as jumping off a cliff, and nearly as enticing as getting my eyes gouged out and my skin filleted. It’s simply dreadful! See, this is what happens when your boss is your boyfriend. But Daniel is not your usual run-of-the-mill boyfriend. He’s my fake boyfriend, a fact he chooses to forget at the most inopportune moments. Like right now. I wish I could sock him in the kisser. But he's my boss, and we need each other. Correction, he needs me. Apparently, being the son of the CEO doesn't guarantee a smooth ride all the way to the golden potty, aka the CEO’s desk. The stakeholders slammed a few requirements on his ass. First and foremost, he has to be married to take over. Would he actually marry? At this point, I believe he's allergic to commitment. Marrying would require him to give up his playboy life. I still recall the afternoon he attended that particular meeting. He returned to his office looking like he'd just been punched in the gut. In a way, I feel like it's not a fair stipulation. I've worked with Daniel long enough to know that he's a hard worker and bloody good at his job. He deserves the position, but the board wants stability, a façade of a settled life. Hence, the fake relationship. Hence, me. I can’t fault him for his choice of a fake girlfriend, though. According to Daniel, I'm the only girl who isn't attracted to him. See how obnoxious that sounds? But he's right. Besides, I'm not interested in a relationship. My career comes first, and I have my own goals to achieve. Getting tangled up in real romance isn’t part of the plan. I know what I want, and I’m not willing to compromise for a fling, no matter how charming or powerful the man might be. Sure, Daniel’s plan does need me to play the part, but I have my own script to follow. “Focus, Daniel.” I nudge him away as gently as I can, conscious of the drink in his hand. I would hate to turn up at our meeting with Keener-Hunter Holdings in a stained shirt. “Fine.” He backs away with an eye roll, grumbling something under his breath about stubborn women. This rat-bastard! I consider smacking him, just a little. It’s like a fantasy playing out in my head. “I’ll need info on all the parties potentially involved in Mozaki’s business,” he says, shifting back to business mode. “Okay…” I reply slowly, pulling up a list of contacts on my phone. The cityscape outside is a blur of motion, skyscrapers standing tall like sentinels guarding secrets. Their glass facades reflect the setting sun in hues of orange and pink. The city feels alive, buzzing with energy, and a sense of determination fills me. This isn’t over. Not by a long shot. I'll get that contract, if only to prove that I can. Just as I start typing out a text, I feel the car slowing to a stop. “Party time…” Daniel whispers, slipping out of the car on the other side. Cursing under my breath, I finish the text, my fingers flying over the screen. I wait, watching the tiny icon until it shows the message has been delivered. Running a finger through my hair, I take a deep breath and open the door. The cool air hits me as strands of hair blow across my face. I sigh in mild frustration, straightening my suit jacket as I step out. Glancing back at our driver, I call over my shoulder, “I’ll call when we’re ready, Benny.” Daniel is already striding towards the entrance, his confidence radiating off him in waves. I follow, my heels clicking on the pavement as I catch up with him in a few steps. The entrance to the Keener-Hunter Holdings building is sleek and modern, with towering glass doors that shimmer in the fading sunlight. Polished marble steps lead up to the lobby, framed by elegant lights that cast a warm glow. I’m not deceived by it, though. Keener-Hunter didn’t rise to the top by being warm and cuddly with their business partners. They have a reputation for being cutthroat, but it’s clearly served them well. I mean, look at this place! Inside, the lobby is all sleek shine and glass. High ceilings rise above pristine marble flooring. A grand chandelier hangs overhead, scattering light in a dazzling array. Potted plants and modern art pieces sit at strategic areas. It feels like they are set there for a purpose. I can’t help but admire how it makes the lobby feel both elegant and imposing. Leave visitors feeling both welcome and a little intimidated by the show of wealth. It’s brilliant! As soon as we reach the middle of the lobby, a ding sounds to our left, and an elevator slides open. A young man steps out, moving towards us with confident strides. He looks to be in his mid-twenties, impeccably dressed in a tailored navy suit that fits him perfectly. His eyes are sharp and attentive as he extends a hand in greeting. “Good evening, Mr. Daniels, Ms. Stone,” he says smoothly. “Welcome to Keener-Hunter Holdings. I’m James, Mr. Keener’s assistant. He’s expecting you. Please follow me.” We exchange brief nods and follow him deeper into the building. “Mr. Keener and Mr. Hunter are waiting for you in Conference Room 2,” he informs us as we move through the sleek corridors. “So, how was your journey here?” James asks, making polite conversation. “I hope the traffic wasn’t too bad. It tends to get a bit chaotic around this time.” “It was fine, thank you,” I reply, my mind half on the conversation and half on the upcoming meeting. James continues, his tone light. “We’ve just had the lobby refurbished. The chandelier was imported from Italy. Quite the centerpiece, don’t you think?” I don't care if the chandelier was crafted by Michelangelo himself! I just want to get this meeting over with. “It’s impressive,” Daniel responds, matching James’s small talk with a polite smile. As we approach a set of double doors, James gestures ahead. “Here we are, Conference Room 2. Mr. Keener and Mr. Hunter are just inside. Please, go ahead.” As soon as we walk in, the people inside rise to greet us. Mr. Keener and Mr. Hunter step forward, poised for a handshake. “Mr. Daniels, Ms. Stone, welcome. We’ve been expecting you.” “Thank you for having us,” Daniel replies. I nod, shaking their hands as I glance around the room. There’s a man and woman standing to Mr. Hunter's right. They look nearly identical. Oh my god! Are these the Shahe siblings? Mr. Hunter gestures towards them. “Allow me to introduce our guests from Shahe & Co, the joint CEOs, Mr. and Ms. Shahe.” They are an impressive duo, rich as Croesus too if the business magazines are to be believed. They’d amassed quite some wealth since their takeover of Shahe & Co three years prior. I had heard of them, but we’d never been introduced. Ms. Shahe smiles. Her teeth look blindingly white against her dark toned complexion. “Ms. Stone. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” “Likewise,” I respond, wondering why I never thought to consider Shahe & Co as a contender for the Mozaki project. Mr. Keener gestures to the table. “Please, have a seat.” We take our seats, and I bring out my flash drive and other items for the presentation. Daniel settles into the chair beside me. Just as I’m about to suggest we start, Mr. Keener raises a hand. “We’re waiting for someone to arrive.” The delay annoys me, but I keep my expression neutral. Daniel, on the other hand, seems right as rain. “No problem at all,” he says with a grin. I look down at the presentation slides in front of me, going over everything in my mind. Every detail needs to be perfect. We can't afford any mistakes. Just then, the doors swing open, and I hear the sound of footsteps approaching. “I apologize for the wait.” The voice sounds harried. I glance up to see two men have just entered. One looks younger; he’s the one speaking. The other man... my eyes settle on him almost immediately. He has dark, thick hair that’s slightly tousled, and large, intense dark eyes that seem to pierce right through me. He’s tall, with a chiseled jaw that looks like it was sculpted by an artist. Even in his suit, it’s clear he’s deliciously muscled. The suit is impeccably tailored, hugging his broad shoulders and tapering down to his narrow waist. The fabric stretches perfectly over his powerful thighs. A tingling sensation spreads through me. Focus, Isabella! He hasn’t acknowledged me yet. He doesn't speak or shake hands with even Keener and Hunter. He just nods in greeting at them and the others in the room, then his eyes lock onto mine. His gaze is intense, almost scorching, as if he's seeing straight through me. The air between us feels charged, almost electric. I can feel a flush creeping up my neck. I’ve never felt anything like it. He’s looking at you, say something you dimwit! I open my mouth to say something. To say what? I can't be sure. My mouth seems quite disconnected from the rest of me. Just as I try to speak, he turns away and takes a seat. My brain screeches to a halt. Did he just ignore me? I feel a flush of embarrassment and irritation, a mix that makes my skin prickle. Who does he think he is? The room around me starts to blur as I fight to regain my composure. The presentation slides in front of me suddenly seem less daunting than the man who just walked in. Mr. Keener clears his throat, breaking the tense silence. “Now that everyone is here, we can begin the meeting in earnest. Mr. Hunter and I will be taking proposals regarding our upcoming multimillion-dollar tech redevelopment project.” Mr. Shahe leans forward, “Mr. Keener, what are the specific requirements and objectives of this project?” Mr. Keener nods. “Certainly. We’re looking to transform a large industrial site into a mixed-use tech hub. We need innovative solutions that incorporate sustainable practices, efficient logistics, and cutting-edge technology. Our main goal here is create a space that serves both commercial and residential needs.” Mr. Hunter adds, “We’re also focused on minimizing environmental impact and meeting all regulatory standards. Flexibility is crucial, as we anticipate future expansions.” Mr. Shahe pulls a file from his briefcase. “In that case, our team has experience in similar projects and we’ve prepared a proposal that addresses these key points.” As he begins his pitch, outlining their strategies and previous successes, I make mental notes, identifying gaps in their plan. One glaring oversight stands out: their approach to integrating smart technology seems limited. Ha! Perfect! “Mr. Shahe,” I interject, trying not to sound smug, “I’m curious about your plans for integrating smart technology into the infrastructure. With rapid advancements in tech, how do you plan to future-proof the development?” Mr. Shahe looks momentarily taken aback. He clearly hadn’t expected this question. I watch as he fumbles slightly before responding, “We have considered some smart technology implementations, but our primary focus has been on the foundational aspects.” Gotcha! Mr. Hunter turns his attention to me, intrigued. “Ms. Stone, how do you see smart technology enhancing the project?” I lean forward, swiping to my PowerPoint slide on advanced tech. “By incorporating IoT devices, AI management systems, and advanced data analytics, we can create a truly intelligent infrastructure. This will improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and provide seamless connectivity. Besides, it would be a great way to ensure that Keener-Hunter Holdings is the only tech company with that patent. Any other companies who attempt to do same will only be copying the original. That’s you, Mr. Hunter.” I pause for effect, watching as they absorb my points. “And future-proofing the development means preparing it for the next wave of tech advancements, keeping it competitive and attractive for years to come.” I can see the wheels turning in their heads, considering the possibilities. Time to reel them in… “Keener-Hunter Holdings needs a partner who can not only meet the demands of this project but also drive innovation,” I begin. “Danforth Inc. is uniquely positioned to do just that. Our extensive experience in smart city projects and our leading-edge tech solutions make us the ideal choice. In fact, this is our area of specialty. It’s what we do, and our approach boosts efficiency and it’s cheaper, if you’re considering the costs.” I emphasize our track record and the strong network we've built. As I speak, I can feel a burning gaze on me. It’s strange how you can sense someone’s eyes on you, even in a room full of people. Mr. Hunter looks like he agrees with me. And for the first time today, I feel like things are turning in our favor when someone interrupts. I turn to see the man from earlier, his dark eyes locked onto mine with a challenging intensity. His voice is deep, husky, and surprising – after keeping mute on his arrival, I didn’t expect him to speak now. But his words have an icy bite. “Interesting perspective, Ms. Stone” he doesn’t sound like he means it. Warning bells go off in my head. What did I miss? Mr. Hunter acknowledges him with a nod. “Mr. Smith, what does Vertex Solutions propose?” Vertex Solutions? I can’t believe it. It’s him! I can feel myself hyperventilate. Don’t you dare faint, Isabella. I had no idea Alex Smith would be here in person. “Thank you, Mr. Hunter,” he begins, his tone measured. “While Ms. Stone's vision is ambitious, it borders on fantasy, as expected.” The condescension in Smith's tone is unmistakable. He’s trying to make me look incompetent. This fucker! “Mr. Smith,” Daniel cuts in. But Smith isn’t done, “The integration of IoT and AI is crucial, yes, but it's also fraught with challenges and risks that must be meticulously managed.” He turns his gaze to me, continuing, “Have you considered the potential security vulnerabilities of such a connected infrastructure? Or the massive upfront costs and ongoing maintenance required? Not to mention the regulatory hurdles and the need for constant updates to keep up with the rapid pace of technological advancements.” I feel a cold sweat forming as he systematically dissects my pitch. “These are not just technical issues but also financial and operational challenges that can derail the project if not handled correctly. Vertex Solutions proposes a more grounded approach, focusing on scalable and adaptable technology that grows with the development while minimizing risks and costs.” Mr. Hunter turns back to me, clearly intrigued by Smith's arguments. I grit my teeth and lean forward, “Mr. Smith, your approach might be ‘grounded,’ but it lacks vision. A project of this magnitude requires forward-thinking and innovation, not just playing it safe.” Smith smirks, “Forward-thinking is essential, Ms. Stone, but so is practicality.” He narrows his eyes at me, “Haven’t you heard, grand ideas mean nothing if they can't be implemented effectively?” The nerve of him! “And practicality without ambition stifles progress.” I fire back, my voice rising. “This is a multi-million redevelopment project, Mr. Smith. It requires something more than a cautious, piecemeal approach.” Smith’s smirk disappears, his gaze hardens. “Ambition is worthless if it leads to failure. We need solutions that work, not fantasies that fall apart. If you want to talk about fantasies, throw a tea party and leave business to those who know better.” “Tea party?” My fingers clench into a fist. I don’t care if I go to jail, I’ll kill him. I try to count to five, but I can’t. “Mr. Smith, our approach has been proven in multiple successful projects.” Smith leans in, a mocking smile on his lips. “I am quite aware of that, Ms. Stone. Your approach has been proven on smaller scales, but this is different. I’m sure Mr. Keener and Mr. Hunter would agree that a project of this caliber needs expertise, not experiments.” The room buzzes with tension, the air almost crackling. Mr. Hunter clears his throat, trying to defuse the situation. “Alright, let’s take a breather. We’ll reconvene in ten minutes.” I feel the heat rise to my face, embarrassment mixing with rage. Without a word, I stand and walk out. I don’t know where I’m headed, but I know if I stay one more minute in that room, I’d punch someone, and I know exactly who it would be. I can’t believe he did that! f*****g asshat! “Hey, Isabella!” I hear Daniel calling behind me. I turn, waving my arms. “I know, I know, I shouldn’t have let him get to me.” Daniel catches up, looking so pissed I wished I wasn’t on the receiving end of his scowl. “What’s wrong with you? You nearly blew it in there.” What? “I nearly blew it? Were you in that room just now? Smith was being an ass -” “-and you walked right into his trap!” Daniel cuts me off. “You’re acting like this is your first rodeo. Smith was trying to get in your head. It’s a move to throw us off our game.” Now, I feel stupid. “You’re right,” I take a deep breath, shelving my pity party for later once this s**t show is over. “Vertex Solutions isn’t who we came to impress. We need to focus on Keener and Hunter.” Daniel nods. “Exactly. Get your head in the game, Isabella.” We walk back into the conference room. Smith looks so smug, I want to wipe it off his face. I try not to look in his direction as I return to my seat. I can feel him looking at me, though. It feels like an itch blooms everywhere his eyes touch. Mr. Keener stands, clearing his throat. “We’ve heard some compelling proposals today, and we’ll take some time to deliberate. Mr. Hunter and I appreciate your patience and will be in touch soon.” The room buzzes with quiet conversations as everyone starts to gather their things. Daniel's phone rings, and he steps out, likely heading downstairs. I quickly send a text to Benny, asking him to pull the car around to the front. As I power off my tablet and gather my files, Ms. Shahe comes over to me. “You handled yourself impressively in there, Ms. Stone. You know, I went over my brother's notes for this meeting and I thought I hadn't overlooked any details. Have you ever considered working for Shahe & Co?” Is she trying to poach me right now? I can't help but laugh. “That's quite the offer, Ms. Shahe. I appreciate the compliment. I'll definitely keep it in mind.” She smiles warmly. “We could use a brain like yours over at Shahe & Co. Think about it.” As Ms. Shahe walks away, I catch sight of Mr. Smith striding purposefully in my direction. My shoulders tense, and dread coils in the pit of my stomach. I’m not sure what sucks more, that I’m intimidated by this guy or the irony that, for a few seconds when I first met him, I found him attractive. “Ms. Stone?” His voice is smooth, almost taunting. What now? I square my shoulders, meeting his gaze. “Mr. Smith. You’re a hard man to find. I began to wonder if you actually existed.” He looks amused. “I'm not in the habit of wasting my time, Ms. Stone. Perhaps Danforth Inc. should up its game if it wants to play in my turf.” Turf? What is this, the Godfather? “Or maybe you're just afraid of a little competition.” I take a step closer. “You think ignoring your problems will make them disappear? This is business, Mr. Smith, not a magic show.” “Ah, business…” His smirk widens, a predatory gleam in his eye. “Careful there, Ms. Stone. Any more of this and you might hurt yourself thinking too hard. Why don’t you run along and leave the real work to the professionals?” My blood boils. “Oh, you think you're so clever, don’t you? You knew Vertex Solutions wouldn’t have a chance, so you tried to make me look incompetent today—” “—Well, I was hardly trying—” “—and underestimating us will be your biggest mistake.” He leans in, his voice low and mocking. “Strong words. Did you rehearse that in front of the mirror this morning?” What? I get in his face, “You think you're untouchable, don't you?" His gaze drops, his eyes hooded as he glances down at me. There’s something in those dark eyes. I realize I’m standing close. Too close. I can feel the heat of his body. My breasts are nearly brushing against him. For a moment, I could swear he sucks in a breath. “Sir? We're ready for you,” his secretary calls from behind. I jump at the sound of his voice, feeling like someone just splashed cold water on me. My heart is pounding like I’d just ran a marathon. I can feel a drop of sweat curling its way down my nose. What was that?! He straightens, a weird look on his face. “Have a good day, Ms. Stone. Tell your boss not to worry too much about the Keener-Hunter deal. It’s as good as mine.” He walks away, looking mighty pleased with himself. His assistant avoids eye contact as he follows his boss. I'm left standing there, seething with rage and of something more. I’m not sure what it is. I shrug out of my jacket as I step into the elevator, the cool air doing little to calm the heat simmering beneath my skin. The ride down feels endless, my mind replaying our exchange. When the doors finally open to the lobby, my eyes scan the room.