Alex Glover leaned back in his office chair, phone still in hand, replaying his conversation with Diana. Her spark ignited something within him.
_Flashback: Alex's Backstory_
At the young age of 10 Alex's parents divorced due to his dads scandalous relationship with another woman, leaving him with an emotionally absent father and a mother struggling to cope. He became self-reliant, determined to prove himself.
At age 18 Alex's father, a wealthy entrepreneur seeing his sons immense potential for business, offered him a deal: join the family business or forfeit inheritance. Alex chose the latter, vowing to succeed on his own terms.
At age 25 Alex's girlfriend and business partner, Rachel, died in a tragic accident. Grief-stricken, Alex buried himself in work desperate to keep Rachel's legacy alive, building his empire.
Present Day:
Alex's assistant, Mark, interrupted his reverie.
"Sir, the Smith Tower acquisition team is waiting."
Alex nodded.
"Send them in."
As the meeting commenced, Alex's thoughts drifted to Diana. Her determination and conviction intrigued him remindinghim of his dead lover.
_Back to Present_
After the meeting, Alex visited his mother, Elizabeth, at her estate.
"Alex, you're working too hard," she said, concern etched on her face.
"I'm fine, Mother."
Elizabeth's gaze pierced his.
"You're still running from Rachel's memory, aren't you?"
Alex's mask of invulnerability slipped.
"I'm just ensuring her legacy lives on."
"I'm just ensuring her legacy lives on through me.
Elizabeth's expression softened.
"You deserve happiness, Alex. Don't let guilt hold you back,you know she would be sad to see you liks this."
Alex nodded, though uncertainty lingered.
Later, Alex received an anonymous package containing documents about Diana's past – her parents' accident, Regina's guardianship, and Diana's struggles. A note read:
"Know your enemy."
Alex's gut twisted.
Who sent this?
And why?
As he pondered, his phone buzzed.
"Diana Smith."
Alex's pulse quickened.
"Diana."
"Meet me at the rooftop bar at 7 pm. We need to talk."
Alex smiled and asked "is Ms Diana asking me out on a date"
On the other end of the phone Diana blushed ever so slightly and said,"don't flatter yourself Mr Alex"
"Anyway "I'll be there."said Alex"