Ever since their wedding, Quinn and Leo's marriage had been far from the fairytale she had once hoped for. What started with vows and promises soon descended into cold detachment. Leo became distant, sometimes not coming home for days, and when he did, their interactions were no more than curt exchanges. They lived like strangers, bound by a contract instead of love. Yet, Quinn remained determined to uphold her end of the marriage, even if it felt like she was holding on alone.
One crisp morning, Quinn sat in her office, absorbed in the details of a critical project proposal. The quiet hum of productivity was interrupted by a soft knock on her door. Her secretary, Mia, stepped inside, her expression composed and professional.
"Mrs. Langston," Mia began, "Mr. Michael Lennox is here to see you."
Quinn blinked in surprise, her pen pausing over her notebook. "Michael? Did he say what it's about?"
Mia shook her head. "No, ma'am. He's waiting in the lounge. Shall I let him know you're unavailable?"
Quinn hesitated before setting her pen down. "No, Mia. Please show him in."
Moments later, Michael strode into the room with his usual effortless charm. Dressed in a tailored navy suit, he carried himself with an air of confidence that lit up the room.
"There you are," he greeted, a teasing grin on his face. "I was starting to think you were avoiding me."
Quinn arched an eyebrow but couldn't help a faint smile. "Not at all. I've just been… busy."
"Busy, huh?" he replied, producing a bouquet of bright daisies from behind his back. "Well, these are for you. To liven up the desk of a busy woman."
Quinn accepted the flowers, her smile softening. "Thank you, Michael. This is a nice surprise."
"Of course," he said smoothly. "Now, how about you let me take you to lunch? You could use a break."
She hesitated, her eyes flicking briefly to the pile of work on her desk. But the thought of escaping her lonely routine, even for an hour, was tempting. Finally, she relented. "Lunch sounds good."
---
At a charming restaurant not far from her office, Quinn and Michael sat by a window overlooking the bustling city streets. The aroma of freshly baked bread and brewed coffee filled the air as they chatted.
"So," Michael began, leaning back in his chair, "how's the married life treating you?"
Quinn paused mid-bite, her fork hovering in the air. Her smile faltered briefly before she forced it back. "It's… fine. The usual ups and downs."
Michael studied her for a moment, his sharp eyes searching her face. "You don't sound too convincing," he said, his tone light but probing.
She laughed softly, trying to deflect. "Enough about me. How's work? Still keeping everyone on their toes with your pranks and jokes?"
Michael smirked. "Always. Someone's got to make life interesting."
They spent the rest of the meal reminiscing about old times and discussing Quinn's upcoming projects. For a brief moment, she felt a sense of normalcy—a reprieve from the cold walls of her marriage.
---
Later that evening, Quinn returned to the mansion. The maid informed her that Leo was home. Her heart skipped a beat, but she quickly brushed off the feeling. After freshening up, she descended the grand staircase to find him already seated at the dining table, his expression unreadable.
Without looking up, Leo spoke. "Your proposal was reviewed yesterday. There's a meeting with the executives tomorrow at Langston Group. Prepare accordingly."
Quinn blinked in surprise. "Oh, I wasn't aware it had been reviewed. Thank you for letting me know."
Leo's tone remained detached. "Just be ready." He stood abruptly, leaving the room without another word. Quinn stared after him, her emotions a tangle of gratitude for the opportunity and frustration at his icy demeanor.
---
The next morning, Quinn dressed in a sleek white pantsuit, exuding poise and confidence. Mia, as thorough as ever, handed her the finalized materials as they prepared to leave.
"Is everything ready?" Quinn asked, glancing through the documents. "Presentation slides, reports, handouts?"
"Yes, ma'am," Mia replied with a reassuring smile. "Everything is intact. Triple-checked."
Quinn nodded, a sense of calm determination settling over her. "Good. Let's make this count."
At Langston Group, they were directed to the boardroom, where a dozen executives were already seated. At the head of the table stood Leo, his posture commanding and his expression neutral.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he began, his voice steady, "this is Quinn Langston, CEO of Quinn Enterprises. She'll be presenting her proposal today."
Quinn stepped forward, her heart steady as she greeted the room. With practiced ease, she launched into her presentation, outlining her vision for an ambitious real estate development project.
"This project not only addresses current market demands," she explained, her voice clear and confident, "but sets a new benchmark for eco-friendly housing. Our projected return on investment within the first three years is 35%, with significant growth expected thereafter due to the location's potential."
The room was captivated. Occasionally, board members interjected with questions, which Quinn handled with poise. As she concluded, the room erupted into applause.
"Well done, Miss. Shaw," one board member said, though he quickly corrected himself with an embarrassed chuckle. "I mean, Mrs. Langston."
Quinn smiled graciously, brushing off the slip. The proposal was unanimously approved, and Leo had no choice but to sign off on the project. As she exited with Mia, a wave of satisfaction washed over her.
---
Outside, as they approached her car, a familiar voice called out.
"Quinn! Over here!"
Quinn turned to see Michael Lennox striding toward her, a grin lighting up his face. "I saw your name on the guest list," he said, his tone playful. "Thought I'd offer you a ride. Save you some trouble."
Quinn laughed lightly. "That's thoughtful, but I already have my car."
Michael smirked. "Sell it to Mia, then. I'm sure she'd love it."
They both laughed, the moment light and easy. But when Quinn glanced toward the building, her laughter faded. Standing at the entrance was Leo, his gaze fixed on them with an intensity she couldn't decipher. She straightened.
"I'll take my car," she said softly. "But thank you for the offer."
Michael gave a small nod of understanding. "No problem. Catch you later, Quinn."
That night, as Quinn entered the dining room, Leo was already seated, his expression as cold as ever. Without preamble, he said, "Stay away from Michael."
Quinn stopped mid-step, stunned by his words. "Excuse me? How is that any of your business?"
Leo's tone was sharp. "I won't repeat myself."
Quinn felt a spark of anger rise within her. "You don't get to dictate who I talk to, Leo. You've made it clear this marriage is just a contract to you, so why does it matter?"
He stood, his eyes narrowing. "Because I said so."
"That's not an answer," she shot back, her voice firm. "If you have a problem with Michael, say it outright instead of barking orders at me."
Leo didn't respond. Instead, he walked away, leaving Quinn standing alone, frustration and sadness swirling in her chest.