Chapter 13
I finish getting ready, and when I look in the mirror, I see a version of myself I don't recognize. But I can't deny this life has its perks: sophisticated clothes, comfortable shoes, fine dining, and incredible places.
But this isn't the Chloe Brooks I know. I'll admit any woman would be dazzled by this lifestyle, but I know it's just my job—a job that happens to pay very well.
But I've lived this glamorous life before, and it wasn't a good experience.
I'm afraid of going through it all again and feeling the same pain.
Watching Elena lose weight from the chemo breaks my heart, but it gives me the strength to keep going. I keep reminding myself that every extra dollar I earn goes toward one thing: securing her future. If she needs a transplant, I'll be ready, even if it means making sacrifices.
Alex is already waiting for me, so I give Elena a soft kiss on the forehead as she sleeps peacefully and leave my apartment—small as it is, it's my sanctuary.
When I see him, I feel that familiar flutter in my stomach.
He has such a powerful effect on me, getting into my head and turning me on.
I take a breath and walk toward him, unable to resist.
We exchange a few words and head to the cocktail party. Our mission: network and promote the company's home construction projects, both sales and rentals.
When we launched this idea, we never imagined how successful it would be. Many of our longtime investors not only loved it but were already eager to sign contracts. Still, to move forward, we needed at least ten interested parties to make the deal with Alex's engineer friend viable and worthwhile.
So we decided to chase down these investors, and we're optimistic about closing deals today. Even though finding out about this event at the last minute was a surprise, I accepted the challenge like the professional I am, knowing the compensation would be worth it.
“So, what's this cocktail party going to be like?” I ask.
“Well... from what my client said, there'll be a lot of investors interested in houses at the event, so I figured I'd accept the invitation and mix business with pleasure.”
“That's the plan!” I say, and he continues.
“But let's be careful—I don't know anyone there. The client is Ronaldo, a Brazilian who's been working with us for a few years. He's hosting friends at his place today, and knowing they're interested in investments, he invited me along.”
“Perfect. So let's approach the guests naturally, without letting on that we're here with an agenda.”
“Have I told you how great you are at this?”
“I don't want to sound conceited, but yeah, I put in the work to do a perfect job.”
“You deserve a raise, you know that?”
“I'm loving this conversation. If I close with a client, can I expect a commission?”
“You're catching on quick, aren't you?”
We laugh together. Over time, I've learned so much from him. Alex is an exceptional boss and an even better mentor. In my free time, I keep studying investments to sharpen my skills.
The course I'm taking is excellent, but I believe practice is essential for really learning something.
Theory often differs from reality, and it's through hands-on experience that we truly learn.
I feel lucky to have landed this job, where I can apply my knowledge and skills.
Besides working as an administrator, I also get to develop ideas and presentations for clients in the investment field.
The company's motto is clear: transparency and honesty with clients. I appreciate that, because we follow a rigorous process of research and validation before presenting any proposal, making sure we meet our clients' expectations and needs.
With a glass of champagne in hand—yes, I've started drinking champagne at social events—I observe the elegant crowd around me.
Men in tailored suits chat with their wives, who sport jewelry and smiles, while the topic of the night—money and investments—flows naturally through the conversations.
After talking with several investors and scheduling meetings to discuss our projects, I'm exhausted.
I decide to step outside for some fresh air and recharge.
I walk through the glass door into a beautiful garden, where serenity washes over me. The sound of chatter fades as I make my way toward a bench where I can sit and enjoy the silence.
I bring the glass to my lips and realize, too late, that it's empty. I smile, remembering the pleasant sensation of champagne bubbling on my tongue and the joy it brought me.
“A dollar for your thoughts on that beautiful smile.”
Alex approaches with his signature charm—the kind that makes women want to uncover all his secrets. His smile can light up a room and spark curiosity.
“Nothing worth a dollar.”
“I'd pay even more. Especially if that smile were meant for me.”
“Looks like charming player Alex has decided to make his move?”
I notice then that he's holding two full glasses, one in each hand, and he extends one to me.
“Thanks for the 'charming'!” He winks at me. “I already told you I'm on vacation, and who knows, maybe I'll even retire from that profession.”
“Think you can survive without being on top of a woman?”
“I can be underneath too—depends on how she likes it best.” He shoots me a mischievous look.
I take a long sip of the delicious liquid, feeling the bubbles dance on my tongue and the flush rise to my cheeks. I try to hide it, but it’s too late. I’m too innocent to pull it off, and he notices, coming to sit beside me—the biggest mistake he could make.