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.