jungle below seemed to stretch on forever. As CEO of Ryder Enterprises, my life was a never-
I stared out the window of my high-rise office, gazing at the Manhattan skyline. The concrete ending cycle of deals, meetings, and strategy sessions.
My assistant, Rachel, interrupted my reverie. "Mr Ryder, your 2 PM meeting is waiting."
I nodded, taking a deep breath. Another day, another dollar.
The meeting was a blur of financial reports and marketing strategies. My mind wandered to my family's expectations. My parents had built Ryder Enterprises from scratch, and I was determined to take it to new heights.
After the meeting, Rachel handed me a folder. "Updated sales projections, sir."
"Thanks, Rachel," I replied, scanning the documents.
As I walked out of the conference room, I needed a break. I strolled downstairs to the café on the ground floor, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped me.
That's when I saw her – a stunning woman with porcelain skin, raven-black hair, and piercing emerald eyes. Her full lips curved into a gentle smile as she laughed with the barista.
Intrigued, I watched her for a moment. Who was this radiant woman?
I couldn't resist. I walked into the café, my eyes locked on hers.
"Mind if I join you?" I asked, flashing my best smile.
She hesitated for a moment before nodding.
We introduced ourselves, but she didn't offer her name. I didn't press.
Our conversation flowed effortlessly, like we'd known each other for years. We discovered shared interests in art, music, and adventure.
As we chatted, I found myself captivated by her sparkle.
Before I knew it, an hour had passed. "I'm so sorry, I've monopolized your time," I said, glancing at my watch.
She smiled. "I've enjoyed every minute."
As we parted ways, I realized I hadn't felt this spark in years.
"May I see you again?" I asked, pulling out my phone.
Her smile hinted at yes.
"I'll wait outside," I said. "Would you like to grab dinner tonight?"
She nodded, and I walked her out of the café.
As we stepped into the evening light, I knew I wanted to spend more time with this mysterious woman.
I went back to my office. My mind was still reeling from the romantic day I shared with mysterious lady now. My phone buzzed, snapping me back to reality.
"Jayden," my father's stern voice echoed through the line.
"Dad," I replied, already sensing a hint of urgency.
"Jayden, I hope you're not getting too distracted with your... extracurricular activities," he said, his tone dripping with disapproval. "You have a contract to close with Smith & Co. in two days. It's worth millions, Jayden. Millions."
I felt a familiar knot form in my stomach. My father's expectations were always sky-high, and any misstep was met with disappointment.
"I'm on it, Dad. I've been reviewing the files nonstop," I assured him.
"See that you are. This deal can make or break our company's quarterly projections. I won't have you jeopardizing our family's legacy with your carelessness."
His words stung, but I knew better than to react. "I understand, Dad. It's under control."
"Good. I expect nothing but perfection from you, Jayden. Remember, this is business, not a game."
The line went dead, and I let out a slow breath. My father's harsh reminders were nothing new, but they still managed to gnaw at me. I shook off the feeling, refocusing on the task at hand. Time to seal the deal.
I shook off the lingering tension from my father's call and dove back into the Smith & Co. files. My assistant, Rachel, knocked on the door, interrupting my concentration.
"Mr Ryder, Miss Anna's here to see you," she announced with a knowing smile.
Anna. My childhood friend. We'd grown up together, exploring the city's streets and sharing secrets. But our friendship had complicated edges, especially after...
"Send her in," I said, steeling myself.
Anna walked in, her bright blue eyes and long, curly brown hair unchanged since our youth. We exchanged a warm, if slightly awkward, hug.
"Hey, Jayden. Long time no see," Anna said, settling into the chair across from me.
"Anna. What brings you here?" I asked, trying to sound casual.
"I heard about the charity gala tonight and thought we could catch up," Anna replied, her smile faltering. "But I guess I should've called first."
I shifted uncomfortably. "Anna, I'm sorry. I already have commitments for tonight."
Anna's expression fell, but she quickly recovered. "Of course. Business, right?"
Her tone hinted at understanding.
"Anna, it's not that I don't want to see you," I began.
"No, no, it's fine. Really," Anna interrupted, standing up. "I get it. You're busy. Maybe some other time?"
I stood, polite but firm.
"Take care, Anna.
Anna nodded and left.
I nodded and refocused on the task at hand.