The Encounter

I wake up with a start, and instantly as if the universe wants me to know that my life would soon be over, the same suffocating dread that had wrapped itself around me the night before comes crashing down on me again like a wave.

I have a business meeting today. Another company looking to score a deal with us. I sigh heavily, rolling off the bed. I make my way to the bathroom. A hot shower might melt this dread off my skin at least, I hope.

Once I step out, I choose my outfit with care. A custom-tailored cream pantsuit from Elie Saab, its fabric whisper-soft yet commanding in presence, paired with a matching tailored pencil skirt. A Cartier diamond necklace nestles elegantly against my collarbone, and pearl drop earrings. I also chose a pair of Louboutin heels.

Hair pulled into a sleek ponytail, lip stick with blush powder on, and I look gorgeous, even with the simplicity of my makeup. I look every inch the heiress and business mogul-in-the-making. If only I felt half as strong as I looked. If only I was the heiress.

I step out to the driveway.

“Jason,” I called out.

Jason, one of our drivers, a loyal, efficient man in his late thirties, appears. He gives me a polite nod as I toss him the keys. “You’re up today.”

“Of course, ma’am.”

Sliding into the backseat, I lean my head against the cool glass of the window, letting the city’s morning hum lull me into a state of distant observation as we drive past.

Then a sudden jolt.

My body lunges forward before the seatbelt yanks me back.

I blink, straightening. “What the hell”

Jason unbuckles his seatbelt, and steps out of the car.

Confused, I peer through the windshield. Parked sideways right in front of us, a sleek black McLaren, dangerously angled as though its driver had just screeched into position.

Just then, movement catches my eye.

Jason…is in the air.

I blink. Am I hallucinating?

A man tall, broad-shouldered, practically radiating fury, had Jason by the collar, hoisting him off the ground.

I throw the door open and jump out, my heels squeaking sharply on the pavement. A mix of anger and frustration flooding me. “Hey! You put him down. At once.”

“Ma’am…” Jason croaked, dangling helplessly.

“I said, put him down,” I repeat, my voice low and steely.

With a grunt, the man drops him and Jason stumbles backward, gasping, his hands clutching at his shirt.

I fold my arms. “What happened, Jason?”

Jason’s voice shook. “He appeared out of nowhere. He was driving against traffic, a one-way street. I saw him at the last second. If I hadn’t hit the brakes, we’d all be in the hospital. And instead of apologizing… he decided to assault me.”

“That’s because you spoke to me disrespectfully,” the man thunders.

Jason shook his head. “I didn’t! I only told him what he did was wrong.” His words quivered.

I place a calming hand on Jason’s shoulder. “Go back in the car. I’ll handle this.”

Jason turns, casting a wary glance at the man before leaving.

Now, it's just me and Mr. Anger Issues. Mr Anger Issues?. Where did that come from?.

He turns his gaze on me, folding his arms across his chest. “What? Are you expecting an apology?”

I give a cool smile. “Of course not. I know your type.”

His brow quirks. “Oh really? And what type is that?”

I fold my arms “The kind that thinks breaking the law and endangering lives is a casual pastime. And doesn’t care who they hurt along the way.”

He smirks, a slow, disdainful twist of his lips. “I know it’s illegal. I just don’t care. About it…, about you or what you think. Now, if you’ll excuse me, why don’t you scurry off to whatever little errand it is you’re running?”

I stare at him, eyes narrowed.

“Run along now,” he says with a mocking grin.

“Unbelievable.” I spin around and march back to the car.

At the office, Courtney greets me with her usual bright smile. “Good morning, Miss. Rachel.”

“Good morning Courtney, how are you?“

“I'm fine thank you.”

“What's my schedule today”

“You have a meeting with Arclight Corporation at 4:30 pm. Because of the distance, we'd have to leave by 3:30 maximum”

I nodded. “Get the executive team ready. Make sure Desmond’s on board.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

I immerse myself in back-to-back reports, calls, and project briefs. Anything to shake off the lingering encounter.

As soon as it's 3:30, I head to Arclight with Courtney, Desmond, and the rest of the team. Arclight’s headquarters is a gleaming skyscraper all glass and steel, towering confidently over the city.

We were ushered inside by a polished receptionist. “Mr. Westwood will be with you shortly,” she says with a warm smile.

I smile back. For the first time today, I feel hopeful. I'm going to push Dad's utter madness out of my head for this.

We were led into a stunning conference room, mahogany table, plush leather chairs, and a panoramic city view. I took the head seat, adjusting my blazer.

A soft knock.

The door opens…

And in walks Mr. Anger Issues himself.

Gone was the street brawler look. He now wore a sharp black tailored suit, dark hair styled with precision, confidence oozing from every pore.

“Good afternoon,” he greets, scanning the room before his eyes land, unwavering, on me. “I’m Damian Westwood. CEO of Arclight.”

I force a professional smile. “Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Westwood.”

“Likewise… Miss?”

“Hartley”

His eyes flicker, recognition flashing behind them. “Right. Well, shall we begin?”

I nod, folding my hands together.

This meeting is about to get very very personal. I'm going to make him so uncomfortable. Pour out my despair into this meeting.

Okay Hartley Holdings, let's make a clown of Damian Westwood.