-6-
Rafael
I sat at my desk, the sunlight casting a warm glow over the paperwork spread out before me. The contract from the club I was eyeing was open in front of me, the words blurring together as my mind wandered to thoughts of Yasmin.
Her smooth brown skin, her vibrant hazel eyes. How was Ethan dumb enough to lose someone as beautiful as her? I knew he was stupid and that his family would likely be the end of him, but I would have expected him to know when not to let them win. I wasn't even mad about it; his loss was my gain. I could still remember how stunning she looked wearing nothing but my shirt and the rush of emotions that threatened to consume me the longer I stared.
I shook my head, running a hand down my face as I tried to rid myself of all Yasmin-filled thoughts. She was about to be my fake wife, nothing more. My mind shouldn't be consumed by her like this, I had to get myself under control. Just as I was about to delve back into the intricacies of the contract, a sharp knock interrupted me.
I frowned, setting the contract aside and checking the security camera feed on my computer screen. It was Roman, my best friend and the CEO of Vitale Airlines. A smile tugged at my lips despite how busy I was, and I buzzed him in.
He strolled into my office with a lively energy, his amber eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
"Rafael, my friend, you wouldn't believe the rumor going around," Roman exclaimed, barely containing his excitement.
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his sudden burst of energy. "You know I'm not one to believe in rumors. What are the people saying now?"
"They're saying that Ivan Rashid is coming to the US."
Ivan Rashid—the name resonated through the business world like a thunderclap. He was the epitome of wealth and power, a titan in the Middle East, and rumored to be the richest person on the planet. My mind raced with possibilities as Roman spoke.
"Are you serious?"
Roman nodded eagerly. "Dead serious. And guess what? He's attending my gala next week."
I couldn't contain my shock and excitement. "Ivan Rashid at your gala? That's incredible news, Roman!"
My mind raced with possibilities. If I could strike a deal with Ivan Rashid, it could mean a significant boost for Amato Industries, especially if it involved a project in his country. "This could be huge."
"That's what I was thinking," Roman agreed, his eyes alight with ambition. "I've been considering pitching the idea of opening a restaurant or bar with Rashid. Something classy, exclusive."
"That sounds like a great idea," I told him. "I've been wanting to open a hotel in Dubai, this might be the break I need to get into the scene. You have no idea how hard it is to pitch an idea with them when you don't have someone on the inside, guiding you through it."
"Well shit, it's a lucky thing he accepted my invitation."
I looked him up and down. "You're the reason he's coming here?"
He scoffed. "Of course not, there's something wrong with his jet and it won't be fixed until about two weeks from now, so he's buying one from me."
"How much?"
"Fifty million."
"Well damn," I leaned back in my chair, surprised at how much he spent on a jet when he probably had more just waiting to be used. "You know why he's coming here?"
"No clue, but I assume it’s something to do with his family, his son is flying in with him."
Fucking hell! "Will he be at the gala as well?"
"It's likely."
"Ivan Rashid at your gala next week," I mused aloud, processing the implications. "This could be our chance to make a lasting impression."
Roman nodded eagerly, his mind already racing with ideas. "Exactly! We could propose a joint venture with Rashid. It's the kind of collaboration that could secure our place among the elite."
The idea took root in my mind, a seed of ambition sprouting with each passing moment. Combining our efforts seemed like a strategic move. Together, we could present a compelling proposal to Ivan Rashid, highlighting our strengths and vision for the future. It would also be less daunting to pitch to him when I had Roman by my side.
"I think you're onto something, Roman," I replied, a sense of determination igniting within me. "Let's combine our resources and leave a lasting impression on Rashid at the gala."
Roman grinned, his confidence infectious. "I was hoping you'd say that."
As we delved into the details of our plan, excitement and anticipation filled the room. The prospect of a partnership with Ivan Rashid held immense potential, and I was ready to seize the opportunity with both hands. Our conversation drifted into strategizing, brainstorming ideas, and envisioning a future where our collaboration flourished immensely.
Time passed in a blur as we finalized our approach, drafting proposals and fine-tuning our ideas. The clock ticked steadily, a reminder of the approaching gala where our fate would be decided.
As Roman bid farewell and left my office, I couldn't help but feel a surge of adrenaline. The prospect of meeting Ivan Rashid and presenting our proposal filled me with nerves. The next week would be crucial, a pivotal moment that could shape the future of Amato Industries and our partnership with Vitale Airlines.
With renewed determination, I returned to the contract on my desk, the earlier distractions now replaced by a laser focus. The path ahead was clear—we would make our mark at the gala, displaying our ambition and determination to secure a deal with Ivan Rashid.