The moment their eyes locked, time seemed to stutter. Anderson Gilbert stood near the front gate, his gaze unwavering, and for an instant, it felt like the world had paused to acknowledge the collision of their paths after six long years.
A part of Kathryn wanted to greet him, to bridge the chasm that had formed between them, but as she took a step forward, he turned away into the mansion.
The cold shoulder he gave her was as sharp as an arctic wind, a tangible barrier that stung. Kathryn instantly followed his tail into the mansion as well.
Her parents, sensing the tension as they both walked in, welcomed them with smiles that couldn't quite mask their concerns.
"Anderson dear, what a surprise! It's been a while," Kathryn's mother exclaimed, attempting to infuse warmth into the strained atmosphere.
Anderson merely nodded, his expression guarded. Then they all proceeded to the living room.
"Where's David?" Mr Rowland turned to Kathryn and asked. They were supposed to return home together from work, but he was surprised to see his Kathryn alone.
"He's still at the office," Kathryn replied under her breath. "He had an emergency to take care of."
"Good!"
As they all sat, Kathryn's attention was immediately drawn to Anderson. Dressed in a perfectly tailored suit, he exuded an effortless charm that captivated the room.
The deep navy fabric complemented his broad shoulders, while the crisp white shirt hinted at meticulous attention to detail. His tie, a subtle pattern of silver and charcoal, added a touch of sophistication.
Seated with confidence, he wore the ensemble with a natural grace, making Kathryn pause to appreciate the handsome masterpiece before her eyes.
"Mr. and Mrs. Rowland, thank you for having me," he finally said with a slight bow. "My parents asked me to discuss something urgent regarding the new ongoing project with Techsphere. So, that's why I'm here."
Kathryn's father's brows furrowed, but he maintained a friendly demeanour. "Of course, Anderson. We're always open to discussing business matters. Let's adjourn to the study for a more private conversation."
Then the three of them stood up and walked over to the study room.
As they entered the study, Kathryn's parents took their seats, and Anderson hesitated for a moment before choosing a chair that positioned him as far away from Kathryn as possible.
'I can't believe this is the same guy who was head over heels for me years back. Now, we are nothing but strangers to each other,' Kathryn thought, watching him with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.
Kathryn's mother, ever the social architect, attempted to ease the discomfort. "So, Anderson, how has life treated you these past years? We heard you've been quite successful in your endeavours."
Anderson's response was a curt nod. "It's been busy. I've been focused on the family business."
A detectable awkwardness settled over the room, and Kathryn fought the urge to break the silence, but her mother cut in.
"So, Anderson, aren't you happy to see Kathryn again after all these years she'd gone?"
Kathryn winced at the mention of her name, feeling the weight of everyone's attention shift to her. She wished her mother hadn't brought up such a personal topic in front of Anderson. What is she trying to drive at? Kathryn had no idea.
"Mr. and Mrs. Rowland, I appreciate your hospitality, but I must be honest. I'm here at my parents' request to discuss a business matter. Personal affairs are not on the agenda," Anderson interjected, cutting through the tension with surgical precision.
Kathryn felt a pang of embarrassment at his words. The painful reality of the divide between them sank in, and she silenced any inclination to correct the narrative. This was her punishment for the choice she had made six years ago.
Her father, sensing the frosty atmosphere, instantly diverted the conversation. "Of course, Anderson. Business first. Let's talk about the project?"
Anderson launched into the details of the business proposal about the new ongoing projects in Techsphere, his tone detached and professional.
The words flowed seamlessly, but the coldness in his eyes never wavered. It was clear that any semblance of personal connection had long evaporated.
As the discussion reached its conclusion, Kathryn's parents exchanged glances, and her father hesitated before speaking. "Well, since we are already talking about the project, Anderson, and we're all about family and unity, there's something you need to know. Kathryn is now the CEO of TechSphere."
With the sudden revelation, Anderson only raised an eyebrow, silently urging him to continue. He didn't appear to be taken aback by the news. Of course, he must have read articles about her sudden new position earlier in the day.
Then Kathryn's mother continued before her father could even say anything. "We were thinking, given the history and success of our families working together, that perhaps Kathryn and you could collaborate on this joint project for TechSphere and our conglomerate. It could strengthen the ties between our businesses and, who knows, maybe even revive old friendships," she suggested with a hopeful smile.
Kathryn whispered a plea for her mother to stop, feeling her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She couldn't bear the thought of discussing personal matters with Anderson in this context. Not after what he had mentioned earlier.
"Mom, stop it!" Kathryn whispered at the mention of her last statement. There's no chance in hell Anderson and her could go back to the way they used to be. She was never hoping for that.
A heavy silence descended upon the room, the proposal turned out to be a delicate thread. Anderson's eyes bore into Kathryn, and for a fleeting moment, she saw a glimmer of something, a blend of reluctance and hatred.
"I can't decide yet on that," Anderson replied, his face cold like there was no soul within him. "As I said earlier, everything would strictly be on business. No personal affair should be involved."
"Alright dear, take your time." Mr Rowland responded, sensing how uncomfortable Anderson was in their midst.
Anderson immediately stood up, adjusted his tie and turned to them. "I'll get going now. Thanks for having me tonight." Then he left without saying a word or taking a second glance at Kathryn.
The awkward atmosphere of the study seemed to linger even after Anderson had left. Kathryn turned to her parents, their expressions revealing a mix of expectation and concern.
Her mother, ever the advocate of familial bonds, was quick to resume the topic of patching things with Anderson.
"Kathryn, dear, I understand that past events might have caused some discomfort, but Anderson is a good man. It's not too late to reconsider," she pressed, her eyes pleading for compliance.
Kathryn sighed, knowing their expectations settling on her. "Mom, Dad, I appreciate your concern, but my personal life is something I need to navigate on my own. Right now, I want to focus on my career and move forward. Revisiting the past isn't something I'm ready for."
Mr Rowland, understanding the gravity of his daughter's words, nodded in agreement. "Kathryn has been through a lot lately. Let's respect her decision and give her the space she needs."
Her mom, however, remained adamant. "But darling, Anderson is a suitable match, and considering the synergy between our families, it would be a wise decision. Think about the legacy and stability it could bring."
Kathryn abruptly shook her head, a note of frustration creeping into her voice. "Mom, I can't plan my life based on legacies and perceived stability. I need to make decisions that align with my own aspirations and happiness. Didn't you hear him say the same thing as well? No personal affair!"
Mrs Rowland pursed her lips, clearly dissatisfied with Kathryn's response. "Well, I just hope you're not letting some past mistakes with Marcus cloud your judgment. Anderson has always been a steadfast and reliable partner for you."
"Dad," Kathryn turned to him, seeking support, "please, can we drop this for now? Talk to your wife. I just need time to focus on rebuilding my life."
He nodded in understanding, his eyes conveying a silent reassurance. "We'll respect your wishes, Kathryn. But don't shut the door on potential opportunities."
Kathryn thanked him for his understanding, and her mother reluctantly left the study, but her dad lingered behind.
"Kathryn, there's something you should start working on as the new CEO."
She furrowed her brows, curious about what he was about to reveal. "What is it, Dad?"
He approached the desk and dropped a stack of different project proposals. Her eyes scanned the various entries from small organizations across different cities and counties, each vying for collaboration with their company.
"There's a Tech project we're considering, and several entries have come in. We need to review them and make a decision soon. The collaboration could be significant for the company's expansion."
Kathryn nodded, appreciating the gravity of the situation. "Alright, Dad. Let's go through some of them and see which ones align with our goals."
As he sifted through the proposals, Kathryn's eyes caught one that made her heart skip a beat. The company name on the cover page read 'Thompson Enterprises' – that's Marcus Thompson's company. Her ex-husband! The irony of the situation suddenly hit her like a tidal wave.
"Dad, wait," she interrupted, pointing to the proposal, "this is Marcus's company."
His eyes widened in surprise. "Is it? I hadn't noticed." He collected it from her and went through it. "But it seems like an interesting proposal. What do you think?"
Kathryn hesitated, the memories of the recent divorce still fresh in her mind. "I... I need some time to process this. It's unexpected, to say the least."
Her dad patted her hand gently, his eyes reflecting understanding. "Take your time, Kathryn. We'll handle this delicately. Your well-being is our priority."
"It's fine Dad, I already took my time enough." Her voice was firm, and her gaze determined. "Set up an urgent meeting with everyone who submitted their proposal. I need to meet them tomorrow at noon!"
Her dad sighed deeply, concern etched on his face. "Are you sure you're ready for this? Marcus would be there as well. Remember, you just got divorced and words shouldn't be out about it yet because of this project."
"I am more than ready Dad. I need to face everything as soon as possible. I promise, that not a single word about my divorce will get out. I will handle everything."
"Alright, I will trust your words... Let me inform Johnson to send an e-mail to all participants right now."
"Okay, dad."
As Mr Rowland left the study, the irony of the situation echoed in Kathryn's thoughts once more.
She clenched her fists and tightened her grip on the project proposal from Marcus's company, which had thrown a curveball into the delicate balance of her personal and professional life.
"This is going to be the sweetest revenge ever against the Thompsons!" With a glare, Kathryn angrily tossed the proposal back on the table...