License to love

I never envisioned myself seated in an opulent chair, facing a desk adorned in the attire of CEOs; luxurious suits, crisply ironed shirts, and an excessively long tie that has become my norm. Here I am, positioned at the front of my lavish dark mahogany desk, mapping out the future of GLAZE GLOBAL CORPS, the company bestowed upon me by my still very much alive father, George Winchester. Despite any personal grievances I may hold against him, within the walls of this corporation, familial matters hold no significance.

Glancing out at the cityscape through towering windows, the weight of the empire I now preside over settles upon me. I always anticipated that stepping into my father's shoes would present a challenge, but I was unprepared for the world of concealed motives and alluring temptations that would accompany running the company-- speaking of temptation---

"Craig, Craig!" I hear a voice beckoning me. I swiftly turn to find Veronica. "Your thoughts have been wandering lately. How can I assist you?" she inquires, tenderly placing her hand on my cheek. I grasp her hand and gently guide it back to its place.

Veronica Daniels, my astute former lover, who now serves as my personal assistant. We have collaborated for over a decade, and despite her persistent attempts to rekindle our romance, my heart has nothing left to offer.

"How are things progressing?" I inquire, clasping my hands behind my back and averting my gaze.

She sighs, recognizing that she must not prioritize her selfish desires over my father's life's work.

"I will inform you once it is prepared," she replies, seemingly anticipating a response from me. Knowing well of my disappointing nature, she turns and exits the room.

I release a deep sigh, reclining in my chair and indulging in unnecessary contemplation. My phone vibrates, revealing a message from Owen, my driver. Suddenly, I recall an impending obligation and swiftly gather my jacket and belongings before heading out. The day is only halfway through, yet I am already drained. I dread the remainder of it.

I have concluded my tasks for today. This week has been tumultuous, and I hope the weekend holds some solace, for my father's condition continues to deteriorate. The mere thought of that man stirs intense emotions within me. I cannot afford to lose the one anchor keeping me grounded. I realize that someone has entered the shop.

Raising my eyes, I behold a strikingly handsome man with thick, dark curls adorning his head. His countenance appears meticulously sculpted, as though meticulously crafted over the weekend. I observe the movement of his lips, full and robust; their texture remains a mystery. His steps are deliberate and graceful, reflecting practiced precision. He approaches me in the manner typical of any visitor to the café.

"Uh..."he coughs softly, attempting to break the silence.

"Good evening. How may I assist you?"I inquire, feigning busyness. He glances at his phone before responding.

"I'll simply have a cup of coffee," he replies, his attention divided.

"Has it been a busy day for you?"I inquire as I prepare his order. Momentarily taken aback, he eventually relaxes his features.

"Yes, somewhat,"he smiles, "I am Craig, by the way,"extending his hand.

In a moment of folly, I extend my hand, which had been occupied with preparing his coffee, only for it to slip and fall to the ground, akin to all my aspirations. I possess a talent for marring things, perhaps the only thing I excel at is disrupting this prominent figure.

"My apologies, Mr. Craig. Please accept my sincerest regrets."I struggle to fathom the concept of achieving perfection, a pursuit that inevitably leads to misfortune, despite my perpetual optimism.

"No need for apologies. What was your name again?"he asks, his voice exuding further tranquility than before.

I admire him and realized we were in such close proximity that I could practically sense the warmth emanating between us. "Blaire,"I greeted with a slight smile.

"Well, Miss Blaire, I father that this city --Venice City, truly needs more beautiful individuals like you to enhance their day, much like you do. I could enumerate countless reasons, but time would elude us if I were to do so," he remarked with a smirk.

"It appears time is not on your side as it seems. Your ride awaits," I responded, placing my hands on my hips, which clearly caught his attention.

"I can only envision one individual perfect enough to uh, ride me, Miss Blaire," he began to exit, pausing briefly and turning his head, "and I hope she is adept at handling such a task, as it demands swiftness." With that, he departed. It was like he was never here, except that he was now registered in my mind.

Gazing down at the shattered cup, I realized I might meet a similar fate if I don't navigate this situation carefully. After tidying up the mess, I turned towards the counter to find that he had generously left a tip. Oh, Blaire! What a day, what a man!

★ ★ ★

I couldn't shake off my encounter with the lady from the cafe. Her beauty was simply captivating, and her fragrance evoked memories of my mother. I struggled to contain my inner desires, lest I act impulsively as I have in the past.

I placed her, Veronica, in my thoughts and my company, as a reminder of my past mistakes, a constant warning of the repercussions that would follow if I were to make hasty decisions again.

She is unique, that much I know. It dawned on me that I failed to obtain her contact information, and I let out a deep sigh. I doubt I will have a moment of respite anytime soon, but one thing is certain - she belongs to me, and what is mine, I always attain. I am coming for you, Blaire.