Matthew grew up in a wealthy family of diplomats. He spend most of his childhood traveling with his parents and learning the inner workings of business from his private tutors.
Upon his mother's passing when he was a teenager, Matthew was left with the family's holiday home and a heart full loneliness. His father continued his business as a diplomat, this time leaving his son behind in the care of others.
Matthew took this time to throw himself into education and career ambitions. He finished university by the age of 19 and was already steadily making his way up the career leader by the age of 21.
Now, at 39 years old, he was comfortably sitting at the top as CEO with every perk he could imagine.
He traveled frequently, so romantic relationships were not something he actively pursued. However, his good looks and wealth made him an appealing suitor, even as he left his twenties and thirties. He would keep up appearances by frequently taking dates to important events and short "interludes". None of these women seemed to understand him and at the first mention of his darker interests, they were spooked by his advances.
He didn't reveal his disappointment that a life without such fulfillment. He kept himself fit, worked relentlessly, and continued his studies. Completing his first doctorate before he turned 25. No one would guess that there was a giant hole in the CEO's life. He seemed happy, successful, and respected by everyone who knew him.
He met Mandi at a rare event he attended alone. She was charismatic and intriguing, but her attentions were not on him. She worked the room like a game of chess, flirting and coaxing each poor fellow in the room to adore her.
He asked a woman bidding for his attention about the intriguing woman in red. Without hesitation, the woman shared Mandi's fantastic career successes and accomplishments. Mr. Jones was impressed and curious about this independent woman before him. He handed his wine glass to his confused admirer and made his way to the crowd to meet this "Ms. Sweets".
She was something different and he had to get to know her...