THE PRESENTATION

Kai and Aiden stepped forward to begin the presentation of the canvas, unveiling the canvas with quiet confidence. The room fell into a contemplative silence as the design came into full view.

The Rodriguezs began whispering among themselves, exchanging subtle gestures before one of the three men finally rose to speak.

“Well, in as much as this is far better than the previous collection…” He paused deliberately, then lifted his gaze to meet Mrs. Hale’s.

“I’m sorry. We can’t proceed.” He delivered the verdict like a quiet explosion.

Mrs. Hale rose immediately to her feet.

“Gentlemen, with due respect,” she began smoothly, her tone controlled yet persuasive, “what you see before you isn’t just fabric on canvas. It is vision. It is direction. This collection speaks to modern luxury while honoring timeless craftsmanship.”

The second Rodriguez folded his arms. “It’s bold. Too bold. Our clientele prefers something safer.”

“Safe does not create legacy,” Mrs. Hale countered calmly. “Your brand has always prided itself on distinction. This design positions you ahead of the market, not behind it. It captures exclusivity, elegance, and innovation in one stroke.”

The third man leaned forward. “And you believe this will sell?”

“I don’t believe,” she replied firmly. “I know. The texture choices elevate the silhouette. The color palette attracts high-profile buyers. And most importantly, it tells a story. People invest in stories, not just clothing.”

The three men exchanged another round of glances, skepticism slowly melting into consideration.

“We would love to give it a try,” one finally said, while the others nodded in agreement.

Rowan’s jaw tightened as he stared in disgust, his fist clenched at his side.

“Very well then,” Mrs. Hale announced in dismissal.

Rowan was the first to leave, the Rodriguezs trailing behind him out of the room.

“I’m glad it worked, Mum,” Aiden said, his voice laced with happiness.

“Thank you for making it possible,” he added.

Mrs. Hale’s lips curled into a satisfied smile.

“Yes, thank you, ma’am,” Kai said, walking toward them.

“You both did exceptionally well, and I’m glad I could help,” Mrs. Hale replied. Just then, a notification beeped on her phone and she turned to Aiden.

“I need to rush somewhere now. See you boys at home,” she said, heading for the door and leaving Aiden and Kai alone.

Kai sank back into his chair, studying his painting from afar, admiration softening his features.

“You honestly don’t know what you’ve done for us,” Aiden said, finally breaking the silence as Kai met his gaze.

“We…” Aiden paused, momentarily at a loss for words as his eyes lingered on Kai a second too long.

“You were saying?” Kai prompted gently.

“Yes. I wanted to say we truly appreciate your effort and your art,” Aiden finished, a faint shiver running down his spine.

“The pleasure is mine,” Kai replied with his usual warm smile.

Aiden turned to leave, then realization struck him; Kai knew no one here, this was still his first day.

He turned back and approached him.

“Would you join me in my office?” he asked.

“Yes, of course.” Kai nodded, his face brightening as he rose. They entered the elevator together and soon arrived at Aiden’s office.

“Please, have a seat,” Aiden gestured to the chair in front of his desk before settling into his own.

“Thank you…” Kai paused, his eyes fixed on Aiden. “So much, Aiden,” he added softly.

Aiden’s lips curved into a smile; it was the first time he had heard Kai say his name.

“You’re welcome,” Aiden replied.

His phone began ringing from his suitcase. He pulled it out and glanced at the caller ID: Rowan.

He sighed before answering.

“Rowan, what is it?” Aiden asked immediately.

“We need to talk,” Rowan said.

“Talk about what? You know how busy we are. Besides, you were the one who stormed out. What do you suddenly want to discuss?” Aiden shot back.

“Come over to my office, or should I come to yours?” Rowan asked, his voice echoing in Aiden’s head as his eyes shifted toward Kai.

If Rowan found Kai in his office, he would be even angrier.

“I’ll come up to your office,” Aiden decided as the line went dead.

He stood, phone still in hand, stepping away from his desk.

“Please, give me a minute,” he told Kai before leaving the office and entering the elevator.

“What the hell am I doing? Can I trust him alone in my office?” he muttered to himself, then shook his head.

“He’s not a stranger… but why do I always feel something when he stares at me? Like the world stops and he’s the only thing that matters?” he questioned internally.

The elevator doors opened, pulling him from his thoughts. He walked to Rowan’s door and stepped inside.

“Hey, man,” Aiden greeted, sinking into the chair opposite Rowan’s desk.

“Aiden, I know we’re brothers, but we’ve been distant,” Rowan began, his voice surprisingly calm.

“But in recent years, working together rebuilt that bond. We understand each other. You should know when I’m serious and when I’m joking. You should know I mean well for you and Mum. I would never stand against your happiness.”

Aiden cleared his throat.

“Rowan, I understand everything you’ve said and I believe you.” Rowan’s expression brightened with relief. “But I don’t understand what you’ve become lately. You’ve always been cold and aggressive, especially after school, but with time you improved. Why the sudden change?” Aiden asked.

The relief on Rowan’s face vanished.

“You still don’t understand, Aiden? Must I spell everything out before you see this won’t end well?” Rowan replied, turning to his laptop and beginning to type rapidly.

“Yes, spell it out. That way I’ll understand your perspective,” Aiden insisted.

“Just wait. I’ll show you now,” Rowan said, eyes fixed on the screen.

“Show me, I want to see it all.”

“What?! No, no!” Rowan suddenly exclaimed, hands flying to his cheeks as his eyes widened.

“What is it?” Aiden asked, worry lacing his voice. “Did you see something?”

“He has… he has just…no,” Rowan stammered, rising to his feet and pacing the office.

“Why are you pacing again?” Aiden asked, reaching for Rowan’s laptop to see what had unsettled him so abruptly.