COLLISION OF HEARTS

CHAPTER SEVEN

A courtyard, alive with a fresh, chilly breeze and framed by a breathtaking view. Bright, fragrant flowers; roses, jasmine, lilacs—bloom everywhere, their petals dewy in the morning light.

Vines wrap around stone pillars, and a gentle fountain adding a soft, calming sound, making it a peaceful, hidden paradise, laid two men having a conversation.

Reymond and Jason sat together, lost in a conversation that seemed to stretch endlessly as if time itself paused to listen to their exchange.

“With a stern, unwavering gaze, Jason leaned forward. "Handson’s absence has shifted things in our favor," he said, voice low yet firm. "But competition is stirring, and we need to be prepared for whatever comes next.”

“Our alliance with the Stalk family remains stagnant, their loyalty to Handson unwavering. It’s impressive, really, how steadfastly they stand by him, yet logic suggests even they wouldn’t willingly risk their financial ruin, would they?”

“They'll surely come around, just a matter of patience,” Reymond stated, “how are our rivals doing?

“Well, the Bereks are doing their best to stay on the low for the time being; with Handson in custody, they risk a great chance of getting exposed for their fraudulent activities.”

“Reymond’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he leaned back, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “So, what you’re saying is that they won’t cause any trouble as long as Handson’s locked up?” His tone was light, but curiosity simmered beneath it.

“Yes, that's pretty much the gist.”

"Good thing we took on Handson," Reymond murmured, a quiet satisfaction in his gaze. "Like chess, it’s all about targeting the king.”

“Any idea where Kai and Alex may be?” Jason inquired, curiously.

“Let’s be real, they’re not kids anymore. They’ve both grown up and can take care of themselves. Kai is busy with a photoshoot today, probably strutting his stuff, while Alex is off somewhere in Los Angeles, chasing who knows what.” Reymond rolled his eyes, a sigh escaping his lips.

“Oh, yes, they told me about it,” he said sharply, “I guess I forgot. Plus, I never go around asking how everyone’s doing like I’m their mother; I’m just being watchful.

With the situation with Handson escalating, his gang is likely looking to pick off anyone in our circle. So don’t blame me for being cautious.” He leaned back against his chair, crossing his arms defiantly.

Reymond erupted into laughter, his voice ringing with amusement. "Come on, bro! You don’t have to take it so seriously," he said, still chuckling. "I was just joking, man. Relax!”

Reymond’s posture was relaxed, but his gaze was piercing as he continued. "With my dad’s influence, who would dare challenge us?" His tone was firm, yet there was a hint of menace beneath.

"I only allowed Handson get to me 'cause it was needed; he wouldn’t have made an impact even if he had truly tried.”

A playful glint then appeared in his eyes as he raised his glass. "So stop worrying and let’s just drink, okay?" he said, voice warm and inviting, hoping to lighten the mood.

“Fine, if you say so”

Reymond’s eyes lit up with curiosity as he leaned forward. "So, what about Serena? She’s been out of the city for a while now, hasn’t she?”

Jason’s smile grew slightly as he answered, his voice rich with admiration.

"Yes, she’s in New York, shooting as the main lead actress," he said, his tone laced with a bit of pride as if her success was his own.

“With a sincere look, he leaned forward, staring at his friend’s face. "Dude, I don’t want to pry," he said, voice soft and earnest. "But as a friend, I am genuinely worried about you.”

Reymond responded with a casual voice, folding his arms with a relaxed smile.

“Hmm, how so?” he responded, voice casual. Though he was already well aware of the answer, he chose to hear it out, letting the moment unfold.

Jason's expression softened, guilt lingering in his gaze.

“I'm not here to talk about urges; I don't care about them; I'm just worried you never moved on,” he said, his voice low but earnest. "You can hide it all you want, but I know deep down you were seriously hurt back then,”

Reymond’s gaze drifted toward the flowers and trees, his eyes softening. "You know what hurts the most?" he said quietly, a calm, almost sad smile crossing his face.

"I never got the chance to ask her why." He paused, a glimmer of humor returning as he added, "Not that it’s the real reason I’m still single, alright?”

Reymond chuckled, waving a hand dismissively.

"It’s more about not having the time, you know? But don’t worry, I won't be flying solo till I die, I don’t think I will. Or will I?” He raised an eyebrow playfully.

Jason then sighed, a note

of mock exasperation in his tone. “I really hope you don’t.”