The atmosphere within the meeting room seemed to carry an undercurrent of intrigue, a tapestry woven with words left unsaid and unspoken intentions. Reigha Arsalan's grin persisted as he watched Viona's furrowed brow, a manifestation of her puzzled contemplation. The situation had taken a swift turn, evolving into a chess match of intellect and secrecy.
Viona's response echoed with innocence, her expression a mask concealing the intricate web of her thoughts, "I don't understand."
Reigha's amusement swelled, a private satisfaction at witnessing Viona's genuine confusion. Yet, the undercurrent of tension was not lost on him. "I know everything already. Sei is you in disguise. You made a mistake by having a meeting in a public café, Viona. If someone's interested in Sei, it wouldn't be difficult to dig up information," Reigha stated, his tone a blend of revelation and nonchalance as he handed over the investigation report that Dave had meticulously compiled.
Viona accepted the report, her fingers grazing the pages that laid bare her secrets. The transition from feigned innocence to a matter-of-fact acknowledgement mirrored her growing realization that the charade was at an end. "Sei isn't someone who draws attention. It's you who's got too much free time to investigate about her," she retorted, her words laced with an aloof demeanor.
The play of words between them was an intricate dance, a dance of veiled meanings and unspoken truths. Viona's indifference was a testament to her acceptance that the veil had been lifted.
She delved into the report, her gaze moving swiftly over the pages that detailed her hidden activities, the duality she had so carefully curated. Her neutrality belied the surge of emotions beneath – frustration, admiration for Reigha's tenacity, and the undeniable realization that she was now cornered.
Reigha's response to her comment bore a note of detachment, a testament to the detachment of a man who operated from the shadows, "Any job needs a salary. I pay him well, certainly better than what he'd get elsewhere."
The veiled conversation shifted, the exchange of words a mere façade for the currents of intrigue that flowed between them. Viona's question, "What do you want?" was punctuated with a cold edge, a manifestation of her defiance in the face of her unmasked identity.
The response she received was as straightforward as it was unexpected, the proposition a barter that resonated with an offer of power and privilege. "I want Sei to work for me. I'll give you whatever you want based on how many times you accompany me. One meeting, and you're free to choose whatever you desire, regardless of the cost," Reigha's words held a gravity that echoed within the room.
Viona's furrowed brow deepened, the promise of material wealth falling against the fortress of her independence. "I'm an Amethyst. Whatever I want, I've already gotten it. You're mistaken in offering that to me," her retort held a confidence that reflected her upbringing.
Reigha's nod bore a silent recognition of her words, an acknowledgement of her station. "I know. But I'm sure there's something you want that you can't obtain while living with your parents," he stated with a knowing smile.
The exchange unfurled like a tapestry of negotiation, each thread unraveling a facet of their personalities. Viona's smirk was a testament to her certainty, her words dripping with arrogance, "That's not true. In any case, I'm a girl out of four siblings, and the youngest at that. What do you think I want that I don't already have?"
Reigha's proclamation of agreement held a trace of amusement, "Ah, you're right!" he exclaimed with a knowing expression. "But I'm sure there's something you don't want your parents to know about what you're doing behind their backs, right? Like... preventing Micka Aruni from getting involved in a scandal by paying off three mafia members?" his words were laced with victory, a successful gambit that had unraveled her secrets.
Viona's response was a mixture of nonchalance and exasperation, her words punctuated with a touch of annoyance, "I don't have an issue with that. Even though my parents don't know, they wouldn't mind."
The ensuing exchange evolved into a clash of motivations, a dance of egos veiled in casual conversation. Reigha's insight ventured into the realm of public perception, an astute observation that sought to exploit the cracks in Viona's armor. "I understand that well. But what about the public? Don't you think they might have a negative opinion of you without knowing the truth? What would their attitude be toward your parents if you really don't care? Are you sure you're willing to sacrifice that?"
A resigned sigh escaped Viona's lips, her patience waning as she recognized the futility of her defenses. "You know, you could ask for help normally without resorting to threats," she muttered, her arms crossing in defiance.
Reigha's smile held a note of irony, a reflection of his unapologetic approach. "Yeah, well... I want to minimize the risk of rejection. Like you said, you can get whatever you want. I don't possess what you desire. But I do need your help. Don't worry, I'll pay you for your work," he assured her, his demeanor a blend of charm and candor.
As the currents of their conversation ebbed and flowed, Viona's gaze remained sharp, a testament to her resilience. Her offer was as shrewd as it was pragmatic, a testament to her understanding of her own value, "What kind of job do you need me to do?"
Reigha's response was candid, his posture one of attentiveness, "Just be my partner for parties, meetings, or important events where I need a female partner. Actually, I was hoping to introduce you to my parents, but I'm sure you wouldn't want that, so I'll settle for the first option."
Viona's eyes narrowed, her suspicion evident. "Alright. I'm willing to work for you under a few conditions," she declared, her fingers tapping rhythmically on the table, a silent cadence of negotiation.
Reigha's nod was one of acquiescence, his expression one of intrigue, "As long as the conditions aren't detrimental and I can fulfill them, I'll agree."