chapter 5: NOT AGAIN

Tessa's POV

“no…no..no, this can't be real”

I blinked rapidly, wondering if I was seeing things. But no, he was still there, sitting right there with a smirk on his face. I felt like the ground should open and swallow me.

My eyes scanned the room frantically, searching for somewhere far from him to sit. but i guess luck wasn't on my side today, every seat was taken, except for one – directly facing Elvis. I hesitated, before walking towards the seat and sitting.

I felt like I was daydreaming, with Elvis's piercing gaze watching my every move.

As I sat down, I tried to compose myself, reminding myself that I had a purpose for being here. I would finish what I came for and leave peacefully, without making a scene.

But it was hard to focus with Elvis sitting across from me, not intending to divert his gaze.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. I told myself. I would finish my task and leave, without letting Elvis's presence get the better of me. But as I glanced up, meeting his gaze again with a devilish smile this time, I couldn't help but wonder what was running through his mind.

"Good morning, everyone. Welcome to today's meeting. please let's proceed"

his assistant voice brings me back to reality whom of course i recognized as Jordan.

he still has a look of shock on his face, obviously wasn't expecting me to be the representative the fashion world mentioned.

Of course I'm as shocked as he is, if i had known i would encounter Elvis today, i would have rejected this off.

I stood up, smoothing out my outfit and trying to compose myself. and I was suddenly aware of the room's gaze on me. I could feel Jordan's eyes on me, his expression a mixture of shock and disbelief.

from the side, i can still feel Elvis gaze on me, to be able to continue what i came for I have to avoid making eye contact with him.

I took a deep breath and began to make my way to the front of the room, my heels clicking on the floor. I could feel Jordan's eyes on me, and I knew I had to make a good impression for the company I'm here to represent.

"Good morning, everyone," I began, trying to sound calm and focused. "I'm here to represent the fashion world, and I'm excited to discuss the latest trends and styles with you all today, and how it will benefit us".

still in the middle of my speech, trying to convey my points with confidence.

when i was suddenly interrupted with a loud, masculine voice which cuts through the air

"louder!"

I turned to face the speaker, which of course is Elvis, my eyes locking onto his eyes.

For a moment, I was taken aback.

Is he doing this intentionally to distract me?

Jordan cleared his throat, a signal for me to continue.

I averted my gaze,took a deep breath, steadying myself, and began to speak again more confidently than before.

******

Hopefully I wasn't interrupted till I concluded my speech.

I had worked hard for this proposal, and I desperately needed to secure this contract.

not just to prove to my colleague about my ability but also for business.

As I made my way around the room, shaking hands with the investors, finally, I reached Elvis's seat, my hand extended in a gesture of professionalism.

I have decided to keep our personal issues separate from business. I am here for a deal, not to.

not to revive old wounds.

Elvis shook my hands, eyes locked into mine with a sly smile spreading across his face.

he leaned in close, his masculine scent spreading through my nostrils, "well played", he whispered, his breath sending shivers down my spine, "I'll be looking forward to reviewing your proposal.”

I forced a bright smile onto my face, trying to appear normal despite the tension.

"mhmm, mhmmm, thank you, sir," I replied politely.

As I turned back I could still feel Elvis's eyes on me, but I refused to give him the satisfaction of being scared.

*****

As I walked out of the company's building, I felt a sense of relief.

It had been a shocking and stressful day, but it was over.

I took a deep breath.

Just as I was walking to the taxi I ordered, my phone rang, I smiled as I saw the name on the screen - "my little princess".

I answered the call, and my daughter's cheerful voice filled the ear. "Mommy, I missed you!" she exclaimed immediately the call connected, my heart swelled with love and i couldn't help but smile.

“Hey sugar, i missed you too, hope you have had something to eat baby”

I couldn't help but chuckle at my daughter's response. "Uncle Rolex boughtttt cheesecake, it was so yummy!"

she squealed, her voice dripping with excitement