"Mr. Dalton," she said, her tone dripping with sarcasm, "are you suggesting that a woman should be trampled on, or are you implying that a woman has no right to be better than a man?"
Alex hadn't expected such a bold and pointed response from Stella. He had assumed that his words would land with more of an impact, that he could intimidate her into backing down. But instead, he was taken aback by how effortlessly she had turned the conversation around, not just as a challenge to his authority but as a direct confrontation of his assumptions about her.
His smirk faltered slightly at Stella's bold response, but he quickly recovered, his expression once again cold and composed. "I'm not saying that exactly," he replied, leaning back in his chair and crossing his legs casually. "What I'm saying is that there's a natural order to things. Women thrive when they support, not when they lead. You're impressive, Stella, but maybe you've forgotten your place."
Stella's laughter faded, her sharp gaze locking onto his. "My place? Alex Dalton, you must be joking." Her tone was cool, her confidence unshaken. "If you believe that being born a man inherently makes you more capable or deserving of authority, then you are living in a world of delusion. Let me remind you that this so-called 'place' of mine is one I've built with hard work and intelligence—not handed to me on a silver platter."
Alex clenched his jaw, the smugness on his face slowly giving way to annoyance. "You're awfully bold for someone trying to back out of a marriage," he muttered.
"I'm bold because I'm tired of men like you thinking you can dictate my life," Stella shot back, her voice firm. "This marriage doesn't serve either of us, Alex. You want the Braxton heiress, and I want my freedom. The only reason I called this meeting was to find a way for us both to get what we want without dragging our families into a public feud."
Alex had always harbored resentment toward Stella. The fact that she consistently outshone him—in her career, her dealings, and even her reputation—was a bitter pill to swallow. His grandfather's constant chiding only added salt to the wound.
"You can't even compare to a woman," his grandfather had often said, his tone sharp and dismissive. Those words echoed in Alex's mind, leaving behind a bitter taste that never quite went away.
It didn't help that clients often pointed out how much better it was to work with Stella, praising her efficiency, decisiveness, and charm. Acquaintances, too, frequently remarked on how he could elevate himself if only Stella were there to assist him. Even his closest friend once joked about how powerful they could be together as a couple—her brains and his name.
These comparisons made Alex question whether he could ever truly measure up to her. The idea of being overshadowed by Stella gnawed at his pride, filling him with doubt. But now that his grandfather had chosen to enforce the marriage alliance, Alex saw an opportunity—a chance to finally turn the tables. If the marriage went through, he would find a way to keep Stella under his control, to ensure she no longer had the upper hand.
In his mind, the marriage wasn't just about the alliance—it was about reclaiming his dignity. And he was determined to make it happen, no matter the cost.
Stella sipped her tea calmly, her eyes fixed on Alex Dalton, observing the subtle shifts in his expression. Amusement flickered in her gaze as she noted the tension etched across his features.
She had always been aware that Alex was, in many ways, her fiercest competitor. Though he rarely stated it outright, his actions spoke volumes—he would stop at nothing to see her falter. With that knowledge, Stella could easily deduce the true reason behind his interest in this marriage alliance. It wasn't about family honor or any sentimental reason; it was about power. Alex's ultimate goal was to gain control over the Stallion Group, to swallow it whole and cement his dominance.
But Stella wasn't one to stand idly by. The Stallion Group wasn't just a business to her—it was her mother's death, the embodiment of her life and love for the family that never cared about her. Allowing Alex to take it would mean betraying her mother. This has always been the reason she never rejected taking the rein of Stallion family.
Alex quickly gathered himself, masking his inner turmoil with a cold, detached expression. "So," he began, his voice sharp and deliberate, "what exactly are you proposing, Stella?"
She set her teacup down gently, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Simple," she replied, her tone cool and measured. "We both know this marriage is a farce. Let's be honest about our intentions and make decisions that benefit us both without any pretense."
Alex's eyes narrowed, the corner of his mouth lifting in a smirk. "And what if I don't agree?"
Stella leaned forward slightly, her gaze unwavering. "Then you'll find out exactly why everyone prefers doing business with me," she said smoothly, her voice laced with quiet confidence.
Alex stared at her, his mind whirling. Despite his earlier bravado, he couldn't deny the truth in her words. She was right—she had always been known as the ruthless queen. Not many people will like to offend her. Because there is no good end for her offenders.
After a long pause, Alex finally spoke, his voice quieter but still laced with resistance. "And what exactly do you propose, Stella?"
Stella smiled "A partnership deal", she stated.
"Are you taking me for a fool, a partnership deal is too poor compared to the marriage alliance", he smirked.
Stella had a feeling that Alex Dalton will be difficult to navigate but not worry she is prepared for whatever option he has. "So, what are you trying to say", she asked carelessly.
Leaning forward, Alex's gaze lingered on Stella's face, his eyes tracing the sharp features that were both beautiful and captivating, a tempting invitation for more than just a business deal. With a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, he stated coolly, "10% shares of the Stallion Group, along with a 10-year partnership deal. That's my condition for backing out of this marriage alliance."