4. NICK
“Your presentation was impressive, Miss Turner,” I started, my voice calm. “And the designs were quite exemplary, from what I can tell. But don’t you think this vision of yours is impractical? A lot of other companies have tried it out, but they ended up failing. Let’s just say your business plan wasn’t fleshed out properly, and I doubt if this could be profitable in the long run.”
She blinked in surprise, looking as if she was racing to find the right words. “Well, Mr. Hale, I do believe in sustainable fashion, and my business is committed to eco-friendly practices and materials. However, I also understand the importance of economic viability. It’s about finding a balance between both.”
My piercing gaze remained fixed on her. “And how do you plan to achieve this balance in your business?”
She stumbled over her words, perhaps feeling the weight of my scrutiny. “We will incorporate sustainable practices into every aspect of our production—from sourcing eco-friendly materials to minimizing waste. This way, we can be environmentally conscious while still running a profitable business.”
I leaned forward, my determination and expression unwavering. “And what about your argument about the coastal project? You were adamant about protecting the environment at the beach party. How do you justify your stance then and your stance now?”
She looked shocked, probably wondering why I was bringing it up. In reality, I couldn’t get over the fact that fate seemed to have brought us together again. Just last night, I was still dreaming about her as I had done for the past week since that party.
I can’t forget you, Isabelle Turner. And now that I have a name to go with your face and body, you’ll be even harder to get out of my head.
I could feel the tension in the room escalate as she responded, her voice quivering. “Mr. Hale, it’s about context. The coastal project was different. It posed significant environmental risks that weren’t being adequately addressed. My fashion business aims to be part of the solution, not the problem.”
“Hhhmmm…” Was all I replied. I wanted to test her. Or maybe, I was simply masking my own confused feelings about this woman.
I went on bombarding her with questions and comments that were designed to rattle her. But she seemed to be coping well, though she would stammer from time to time. But it was obvious how passionate she was about this business and how much research and preparations she’d already done.
I was unrelenting, just like how I’d been that evening. And it had made the sex even more thrilling and unforgettable.
As she went on to explain her plans, I tried hard not to let my eyes glide across the exposed skin on her neck and chest. Even in the darkness then, I could see her perfect figure and the supple skin that stirred a deep longing inside of me.
“I want you, Mr. Hale.”
My eyes narrowed as I looked at her, startled. “What?”
“I want this,” she repeated, pointing to the screen of her laptop and referring to a warehouse that she was eyeing. “I’ve been negotiating with the owner to sell it to me. But the price is too steep.”
“Oh.” I realized I’d imagined her words to be different.
As she continued to speak, I could picture her standing in front of me completely naked. The sunlight streaming through the windows would illuminate her curves and highlight her full breasts. I would stand up and lift her up onto the table, spread her legs wide open, and give her oral sex that would blow her mind.
“Miss Turner,” I suddenly blurted out. “It seems that your passion for environmental concerns fluctuates depending on the situation. Are you truly dedicated to sustainability, or is it just a marketing strategy to attract investors like me?”
She looked flabbergasted and couldn’t answer at first. But before she could think of something to say, I had another follow-up question.
“You talk a lot about saving the environment, but can you really make a difference, or is it just wishful thinking? Are your ideals practical in the real world? Because from what I hear, you might be living in this dreamy world of yours. You know, I used to be like that too. But I learned the hard way that in order to achieve my dreams, I’d have to sacrifice some of these ideals and principles.”
“Well, I’m not like you,” Isabelle retorted with a hint of anger. She appeared to be trying to control her emotions from spilling out and perhaps turning into violent reactions.
I shrugged. “Then I guess we won’t be able to work together effectively.” I stood up nonchalantly and began heading out the door.