4
Marley stood in the kitchen, absentmindedly scrolling through her phone while attempting to make a sandwich. The latest post from Maximus Weston's fan page had completely captured her attention.
Maximus Weston—wealthy, powerful, and impossibly handsome—was the kind of man every girl dreamed about. Marley was no exception. Her fingers swiped through the photos, each one more mesmerizing than the last. She could hardly focus on the sandwich she was supposed to be making, her mind completely lost in fantasies of meeting him in person.
"I swear, if I could just see him once," she muttered to herself, barely noticing the half-made sandwich in front of her. "He's perfect."
The bread slipped from her hand as she gazed at the latest photo of Maximus in a tailored suit, his piercing eyes staring through the screen. Lost in the moment, she barely even realized she was burning the sandwich.
As Marley scrolled, a new post caught her eye—a video of Maximus Weston from three days ago. The title read, "Exclusive Billionaire Talk: Maximus Weston Reveals All!" It was from one of those high-profile talk shows where billionaires casually discussed their lives, business, and occasionally spilled a little tea about their relationships.
Her heart skipped a beat as curiosity got the best of her, and without thinking, she clicked on the video.
The moment Maximus appeared on screen, effortlessly charming with his confident smirk, she was completely hooked. His deep voice filled the kitchen as he answered questions with ease, and Marley couldn't take her eyes off him.
Just then, the smell of burning bread hit her nose.
"Oh no, my sandwich!" she exclaimed, quickly yanking the pan off the stove, her eyes never leaving the phone screen.
Just then, a press conference where Maximus sat on a sleek black chair, looking as untouchable as ever. Reporters filled the room, firing questions at him, but he remained calm, his cold demeanor unshaken.
One of the reporters leaned in, voice eager, "Mr. Weston, we've heard that the president and the government have been pleading with MaxTech Innovations to help drive the nation's technological improvements. Can you comment on that?"
Maximus barely blinked, his tone flat and indifferent. "They'll have to wait their turn."
Beside him, a stunning blonde woman sat quietly, glancing his way with admiration. The press seemed to buzz around his short reply, but Maximus didn't care for the reaction.
Back in her kitchen, Marley gasped, her sandwich forgotten. "Oh my gosh, YES! Tell 'em, Maximus! Ugh, that's the energy I live for. So cold but so right!" She shook her head in disbelief, grinning at her screen. "He's untouchable."
A press member, trying to lighten the mood, joked, "Well, if Mr. Weston keeps up this level of secrecy, we might need a top-secret clearance just to get a glimpse of his morning coffee!"
The room erupted in laughter, and Maximus allowed himself a rare chuckle, his serious facade momentarily softening. After a moment, he regained his composure and leaned back, his expression once again inscrutable.
"I'll consider the government's request," he said, his tone as cool and detached as ever. "But let's be clear—I work for no man and answer to no one. If there's help to be given, it'll be on my terms."
The laughter and smiles in the room grew, with many admiring his blend of charm and unwavering independence. The audience seemed even more captivated by his enigmatic presence.
In her kitchen, Marley watched in awe. "He's just perfect! He's got everyone wrapped around his finger and still manages to be completely untouchable," she said, finally turning her attention back to her now burnt sandwich, but still grinning from ear to ear.
As the laughter died down, a strikingly beautiful press lady, her eyes filled with curiosity and a hint of nervousness, leaned forward. "Mr. Weston, could you tell us more about the lovely lady sitting beside you? She seems to be an important part of your life."
Maximus glanced briefly at the woman, his expression impassive. "I don't discuss unimportant matters," he replied coolly, his gaze returning to the reporters.
The lady's face fell, her eyes glistening as she struggled to maintain her composure. A few of the female reporters, already feeling the sting of jealousy, exchanged smirks, adding to her discomfort.
Back in the kitchen, Marley felt a sympathetic pang for the woman but couldn't help herself from muffling the laughter that bubbled up in her throat. "Classic Maximus," she thought, shaking her head with a mix of admiration and amusement.
The room was tense as Maximus leaned forward slightly, his eyes fixed on the provocative reporter.
"You think I'm in a relationship?" he began, his voice icy.
"But I don't do relationships. If you're wondering who she is, she's nothing but a follower begging for my attention. Someone like her doesn't even come close to my standards. I don't associate with 'used products.' To me, she's nothing but a distraction, a way to indulge her Cinderella fantasies."
This made the lady's heart shatter in humiliation, face turned red as tears began to streak through her carefully applied makeup. The cameras, unforgiving, captured every moment of her humiliation as she struggled to maintain her composure.
Maximus stood up, his demeanor unchanged. "I'll take my leave now," he said coolly, his entourage of bodyguards forming a protective wall around him as they began to push through the throng of curious reporters.
They kept on screaming, pointing microphones trying to meet him, camera's shuttering.
The cameras remained focused on the devastated woman, amplifying her distress.
Back in the kitchen, Marley watched the scene unfold, a smirk playing on her lips. "That's what happens when you mess with Maximus," she said to herself, chuckling. "You get served a dose of reality. Serves her right."
As Marley finished watching the video, she quickly shared it across her social media platforms and with her friends, eager to spread the word. Taking a bite from her now-burnt sandwich, she shouted,
"Daisy!"
Her cousin Daisy, who was busy adding a final touch of glitter to her nails, came into the kitchen, her eyes widening in curiosity.
" what?!" she asked blowing air to her nails to get dried up.
Marley grinned and handed her phone to Daisy, showing her the video of Maximus " Take a look at this" she paused and continued. " This is what I called Being the god, not the shit you do"
Both of them burst into laughter as they watched the lady's humiliating moment.
Daisy's eyes sparkled as she watched Maximus's cool dismissal.
"Oh my gosh, he's amazing!" she said, her voice full of admiration.
"He just shuts them down effortlessly!"
Marley nodded, still laughing. "He's like a total boss. I mean, who else could handle it like that? He's definitely got style."
The two of them continued to gush over Maximus, their excitement palpable as they complimented his every move and relished the drama.
✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴
Summers lay on the bed, refusing to get up. She had cried all night, feeling utterly defeated. Kelvin had tried to kiss her, but it was forced and hurt her elbow when she pushed him away. In retaliation, she kicked him where it hurt most.
Kelvin had reported the incident to her father, making things even worse. Summers didn't care anymore.
She just wanted to be free from everything. Kelvin had given her a ring, which she was forced to wear on her engagement finger. Her father had threatened her to keep it on or face serious consequences.
She was exhausted and fed up. Her eyes were swollen and lacked their usual sparkle. She had no desire to see anyone or deal with any more of the mess in her life.
Summers heard a knock on the door she had locked. It was Aunt Tilly, knocking for the fifteenth time, calling out.
Summers wasn't angry at Tilly, but she didn't want to see anyone right now. Another knock followed, and she weakly asked, "Who is it?"
"It's me, Alexa," came the familiar voice, sounding a bit tired from the repeated attempts. Summers sighed and dragged herself out of bed. She unlocked the door and let Alexa in.
Alexa walked in, taking in the sight of Summers looking drained and upset.
"I'm so sorry about everything going on," Alexa said gently.
Summers gave a sad smile. "It's okay, Exa. You don't have to worry about it. Everything's fine."
Alexa's eyes landed on the ring on Summers' finger. "Are you married now?" she asked, a bit confused.
Summers laughed bitterly. "No, but I might be soon. Fate seems to have other plans for me." she replied sitting on the bed tiredly, her mind still pondering about the wedding.
After a moment of silence, Alexa offered, "Do you want to come with Tilly and me for a walk in the park? We're going to get some ice cream."
Summers shook her head softly. "I'm sorry, I just… I can't. Not today."
Alexa could see that Summers was genuinely struggling. "You usually love these outings. Are you sure?"
Summers nodded, though her heart ached. "I'm sure. I just need some time."
" O...okay" Alexa turned to leave but then quickly ran back to Summers.
"Please, don't shut me out. I don't want you to be alone, still don't leave me, Summers, I don't want to be alone with Dad!."
Summers smiled through her tears and placed a kiss on Alexa's head. "I'll never let you go, Exa. I promise."
Alexa smiled and turned to leave.
Summers sat on her bed, feeling the weight of the day pressing down on her. She wanted something to cheer her up. For the first time that day, she picked up her phone and saw the 99+ unread messages. She clicked on the one from Marley.
It was a link to a video. Curious, Summers tapped on it, and the video began to play. She saw a man introduced as Mr. Weston. As she watched, she rolled her eyes at every word he said. She didn't know who he was, but he came across as rude, and all the female press seemed to be enamored with him.
Her irritation grew when Mr. Weston publicly humiliated a girl. Summers' anger bubbled over, and she couldn't believe the harshness of his words. Without waiting for the video to end, she scrolled to the comment section and was met with a barrage of positive comments about him.
" Classic Maximus."
" Cool."
" Talks like a god, lol."
" I love you, Maximus."
" Serves her right, slut!"
" I'm blown away"
400,000,000 More....
There were hundreds of thousands more, all praising him. No one seemed to be critical of his behavior.
Summers scoffed in disbelief. It was the worst video she had ever seen. Disgusted, she decided to call Marley.
After a few rings, Marley picked up.
"Hey, Summers! Did you see the video I sent?" She asked, you could possibly hear her grin.
Summers rolled her eyes, with a small smile "Yeah, I saw it. What kind of video was that?"
Marley giggled "I know, right? It was so funny!"
Summers had a furrowed brow "Funny? He was a jerk for humiliating that girl. It was completely wrong."
Marley gaps dramatically, all the air leaving her lungs "Oh my gosh, Summers! Maximus is not a jerk! Don't say that too loud. People might hear you!"
Summers laughed at Marley's drama.
"Who is this guy anyway?"
Marley even gaps louder, almost loosing her breath. "Are you serious? Maximus Weston is a huge deal! He's a top-tier billionaire, not just a Billionaire, but an Elite Multi-Billionaire who owns MaxTech Innovations, and his three major airlines—Weston Airways, Maximus skylines and the Weston global airlines. He's basically a Tech genius and a major player in the business world. Everyone adores him for his success and charisma. He's a living legend!" Marley finally breath out, after preaching out Maximus' word to Summers.
Summers laughed and said, "You're definitely overhyping him."
Summers didn't believe someone having a Tech company and three airlines. Even the Tech company alone worth fame like no other, even the president and government agencies work for him. Unbelievable!
"No, I'm not!" Marley replied and then sighed "Just go online and search 'Maximus Weston.' You'll see."
Summers sighed, "I don't have time right now. I'll check it out later."
Quickly changing the subject, she asked, "Can I show you something?"
"Sure," Marley inquired.
Summers hung up, snapping her fingers where the ring sat, and sent a picture of it to Marley. She lay on the bed, waiting for her response. Her phone buzzed, and seeing the caller ID, it was her bestie.
"Heyyy," Marley laughed through the phone. "You're a fiancée?"
Summers rolled her eyes, not in the mood for the teasing. "It's not a rib-cracking joke, Marley. I'm in big trouble here."
"Okay, okay," Marley said, still trying to suppress her laughter. "But I don't get it. You're getting married to that freak of a cousin?"
Summers sighed in frustration. "I don't blame you, Marley. I'd rather tell this to a more serious person... like Sam or Jill. You're such a bitch."
Marley's laugh softened, but Summers could hear the mischief still lingering.
"Okay, sorry, let's talk about this more seriously," Marley said, her tone softening. "And I'll tell Jill and Sam. Where are we meeting?"
"Nah... I'm not coming out today. In fact, not even tomorrow," Summers replied, finally stepping out of her room to grab some snacks. "I'm sick and tired of everything."
"You sound like you're feeling better," Marley noted. "Are you?"
"Not really, that's why I called this clown of a friend—to make me laugh my day out,"
Summers joked with a smile, reaching for a chocolate chip cookie from the kitchen counter. She headed back upstairs, munching as she went.
"Ah! I'd love to make you laugh," Marley said, thinking for a moment. "Okay, how about this—why are boys like parking spaces?"
Summers raised an eyebrow. "Why?"
"Because all the good ones are taken, and the rest are either too far or just plain useless!" Marley burst out laughing at her own joke.
Summers couldn't help but laugh too. "That's ridiculous, but also so true!"
Marley chuckled. "See, I told you I'd make you laugh! Boys are just walking comedy shows sometimes."
"Don't worry, I'll send you a link to some comedy videos so your day can be as bubbly as mine," Marley said cheerfully.
Summers felt her heart soften, grateful for her friend's light-hearted spirit. "Thanks, Marley. I needed this," she said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation.
"No problem, girl! You've got this," Marley replied with a wink Summers could practically hear through the phone.
"Well, about the meeting… Can you make it tomorrow night?" Marley asked, her tone hopeful.
"Uh… well…" Summers hesitated, unsure.
"Pleaseeeee," Marley drawled out dramatically, clearly begging.
Summers chuckled, already picturing Marley's puppy-dog eyes from miles away. "Okay, fine," she gave in with a sigh, "I'll make it."
"Yes! You're the best!" Marley cheered, her excitement contagious.
"Don't worry, when we get there, we have a lot to do. A lot to give you, a lot to plan, and definitely a lot to get your butt out of that house. Feeling the spirit?" Marley asked, her voice filled with enthusiasm.
"Fine, I'll be there," Summers replied with a resigned smile.
"Great! I have to go. I think my stupid cousin Daisy brought some fancy clothes her boyfriend got from overseas. If I don't get there in time, she's gonna leave me the hideous ones," Marley groaned.
"Good luck with that," Summers laughed. "And don't forget the video. I need it more than you do."
"Got it!" Marley said, hanging up immediately.
Summers chuckled, shaking her head as she put the phone down.
Putting down the phone, her eyes flickered to the ring in her hand, the weight of it pressing on her mind more than her finger. She still wondered what fate had in store for her.
Fear crept in, mixing with confusion, as the harsh reality settled in—her decisions weren't her own. They never had been, not with her father's grip tightening around her every move.
A quick buzz from her phone broke her thoughts. It was Marley, sending the promised link. With a soft smile, Summers picked up her phone.
"Thanks, Bestie," she whispered, knowing Marley couldn't hear her, but the sentiment felt real enough.
She took a bite of her chocolate chip cookie, savoring the sweetness for a moment, before tapping on the link.
_________________________
The quiet hum of the city below barely reached the top floor of the Weston Plaza, one of Maximus' many luxury hotels. From his vantage point, the world seemed small, insignificant—a reflection of how he saw most people.
Maximus sat behind a sleek black desk, his eyes fixed on the screen of his laptop, though his mind wandered elsewhere. His fingers drummed rhythmically against the glass table, the only sound in the otherwise silent room.
The lighting was low, casting long shadows, and the modern furniture around him spoke of wealth and power. Everything about the space was sharp, deliberate—just like him.
A soft knock echoed through the room. Maximus paused, his gaze remaining fixed on the laptop screen. The slight crease in his brow betrayed no emotion as he continued typing, his fingers moving with deliberate precision.
After a long moment, he exhaled slowly, a flicker of irritation passing through his eyes.
Finally, he straightened his posture, his expression as impassive as a winter's night. With a measured tone that masked any hint of impatience, he spoke,
" Come in" The door behind him swung open with a quiet hiss, and his assistant, Claire, stepped in, holding a stack of papers.
"Mr. Weston, the final guest list for the gala," she said, her voice steady, though there was always a trace of nerves when people spoke to him. He didn't even need to look up to sense the tension.
Without glancing at her, he spoke "Leave it."
Claire set the papers on his desk carefully, watching him for a moment. She opened her mouth as if to say something more, but Maximus' cold, piercing gaze met hers, and whatever words she had died in her throat.
He waved his hand in a nonchalant dismiss as She quickly left the room, closing the door behind her.
Maximus leaned back in his chair, his sharp features expressionless. The gala. Another unnecessary event, organized not for him but at the request of his father.
'A celebration for the acquisition,' his father had said.
'Our new partnership with the Markov Corporation will ensure we dominate the tech sector.'
Maximus scoffed silently. His father loved using the word "our" when discussing business, but in reality, it was "his" empire that mattered. The hotel, the airlines, the luxury estate firm and the technology company—everything Maximus had built was separate from his father's crumbling legacy. Yet here he was, cleaning up after him again.
His fingers hovered over the laptop keys, pulling up a detailed plan of the gala—catering, guest lists, entertainment. He scrolled through them with cold efficiency, his mind already calculating potential weaknesses, missteps, or anything that could tarnish his reputation. Failure was not an option. Not in his world.
The door opened again, and this time his father stepped in, without the courtesy of knocking.
"Maximus," his father's voice rang through the room, thick with authority but lacking the edge of control that Maximus had perfected.
Maximus' expression didn't change. He remained seated, unbothered by the intrusion. "What is it?"
"The gala needs to be flawless," his father began, but Maximus raised a hand, silencing him.
"It will be," Maximus replied, his voice low but carrying enough weight to shut down any argument. "You don't need to remind me."
His father's eyes narrowed, the tension in the room thickening. Though they shared blood, they were nothing alike. Maximus embodied control, power, and intimidation, while his father relied on the weight of the past—a past that Maximus had no interest in honoring.
"I'll see you on tomorrow night," his father said, his tone stiff as he turned to leave, knowing better than to linger.
When the door closed, Maximus exhaled quietly, irritation flaring at the thought of playing host for an evening. The only upside to the event was the chance to network with high-profile individuals, potentially uncovering new opportunities for MaxTech Innovations.
He glanced at the guest list Claire had left behind, but the names were already a blur to him. These events weren't about the people; they were about control. Control of the narrative, control of the room, control of himself.
With one final look out over the city below, Maximus closed his laptop and stood. Tomorrow, he would walk into that gala and command every gaze, every conversation, every deal. Just as he always did.
Because in his world, nothing mattered more than power—and he was the one who wielded it.