# Chapter 6: A Meeting of Tension
When I arrived home, I quietly checked on Riha and my dad; they were both asleep. Relieved, I went to my room to freshen up. I decided to make my own meal, refusing the help of the maids. After eating, I crawled into bed, but as I lay there, my mind drifted back to the moment Pedro had held me from behind. Goosebumps prickled my skin at the memory—it was both thrilling and embarrassing.
Just as I was about to drift off, my phone buzzed, illuminating the dark room. A message popped up: "Did you get home safely?" I quickly unlocked my phone to check the sender, but it was from a private number—one I couldn't call or text back. I dropped the phone and succumbed to sleep.
The next morning, my phone's ringing tone jolted me awake. Still groggy, I answered the call.
"Good morning, C.E.O. The Swaiden Group's C.E.O. wants to see you today," Kate said.
I groaned inwardly. I hated urgent meetings and the feeling of being controlled, but the billions we stood to earn from the contract made it necessary for me to go. I swung my legs over the side of the bed, took a quick shower, and dressed in one of my favorite Versace outfits. I loved the luxurious feel of the fabric and the confidence it gave me. After picking one of my expensive Versace bags and spritzing on a lavish perfume, I felt ready to face the day.
As I was about to leave, my phone buzzed again. It was another message from the same private number: "Are you awake?" I chose to ignore it, still unsettled by the anonymity of the sender.
Descending the stairs, I heard laughter coming from the living room. I peeked in to find Riha giggling with Sun, a handsome musician in his late twenties. He was a heartthrob, adored by fans worldwide, and had been Riha's crush in the music industry. Sun had been a great support for her since her mental health struggles began, visiting her during his free time. Seeing Riha laugh brought a smile to my face.
I checked my dad's room but found it empty. Just then, Grace emerged from the kitchen.
"Grace, I checked my dad's room, and I can't find him. Where is he?" I asked.
"He has a medical appointment today. One of the maids and his driver took him to the hospital," she replied.
I nodded and made my way back to where Sun and Riha were sitting.
"Good morning," Sun said, bowing slightly, his demeanor gentle and respectful.
"Good morning," I replied, leaning down to kiss Riha's forehead before heading out for the Swaiden Group meeting.
When I arrived at the Swaiden Group's office, the building was sleek and modern, with large glass windows reflecting the bustling city outside. A staff member wearing a T-shirt with "Swaiden" printed on it led me through the lobby, which was filled with busy professionals.
As we approached a glass-walled office, I noticed two people sitting closely together. It was Pedro and a woman who looked affluent in her designer clothes.
"Hi, Anna! You're also here?" Pedro greeted me with a smile.
"Good morning," I replied, trying to keep my composure.
"Do you know her?" the lady asked Pedro.
"Yes, she is my friend's younger sister," he said casually.
"I'm Anna Lukewarm," I introduced myself, extending my hand for a handshake.
"I'm Alphabel," she said, shaking my hand warmly.
"You both look affectionate," I remarked, glancing between them.
Pedro chuckled, and Alphabel smiled. "He's just like a brother. I never knew you looked at us that way," she teased.
"Oh, okay," I said, feeling a bit awkward as I observed them sitting together.
"Miss Anna Lukewarm, is that why you are here?" Pedro asked, his tone shifting slightly.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Pedro," I replied, my voice cool.
The Swaiden staff member who had led me in handed me a book. I carefully read through the contract, noting the potential profit of 19.6 billion if we partnered with DW's group. I signed the contract immediately, eager to secure the deal.
Pedro then grabbed his phone, showing Alphabel something on the screen. She turned it toward me, and my heart sank as Drake's picture appeared, his school uniform making him look so innocent. Fear gripped me, and I felt momentarily lost. Seeing his face always triggered a wave of anxiety.
"Are you okay?" Alphabel asked, her voice sounding distant and unclear.
"Are you okay?!" Pedro shouted, concern etched on his face.
"I am," I finally managed to reply, shaking off the fog in my mind. "I'm sorry, I have to leave." I quickly grabbed my handbag and made my way to the elevator, my heart racing. Once inside my car, I took a moment to collect myself, rubbing my chest to calm the rapid beating of my heart.
Just as I was about to drive away, I heard a knock on my window. It was Pedro's P.A. I rolled down the window to hear him out.
"Mr. Duckwhale said I should drive you home," he informed me.
"I'm okay," I replied, knowing full well that I wasn't. As he turned to leave, I called him back, reluctantly agreeing to let him drive me home. The ride was quiet, the street breeze helping to soothe my frayed nerves. I stared out the window, lost in thought, trying to shake off the unsettling feelings that had surfaced during the meeting.
Arriving home, I thanked the P.A. and stepped out of the car, taking a deep breath as I entered the house.