Classic Novel
52
“Well how about we get this show on the road then though I do apologize for my tardiness”
“No worries, I have a habit of showing up extremely because it makes me feel more comfortable and prepared” she dismissed my apology before continuing “I do hope Mr. Stone had you brought up to speed on this project we’re working on together”
“He briefly explained his vision for this investment as well as gave me some ideas he wanted me to talk with you about in regards to the designing.”
Ivan recently invested in a hotel that was going out of business that he wished to renovate because he believed the location of the property was good for business and would help him reach new clients considering the property was in Manhattan which he hadn’t had many properties in.
“Of course and I did bring the rough sketches of his initial plan for the property but I was hoping to get a third opinion on them to make sure they’re good to go. Plus I do believe having a woman’s opinion other than my own would help with making it seem more approachable because respectfully Mr. Stone’s decor ideas are a little dark but polished nonetheless”
Giggling I nodded eagerly as we began to shuffle threw the numerous sketches she had and brainstormed more ideas to add to them.
“You know, I honestly am not surprised that you’re here with him” I said addressing the fact that Simone was attempting to straighten out her appearance, slightly embarrassed.
“You two know each other” Alejandro uttered in confusion as he fixed his posture to appear more authoritative.
“I was always a firm believer on giving your toys to the less fortunate when they’ve outlived their purpose, you’re welcome by the way” I answered giving a slight hint on Simone and I’s relationship.
“To be honest with you Ivan, your new play thing is a complete downgrade on what you had in the past. What was the unfortunate soul’s name again? Annabelle? Annalise?” she bit back her eyes firey with jealous.
“Her name is Amelia and she is a better person than all three of us combined” I snarled taking steps forward utterly offended at her rude outburst.
“That may be the only thing you and I will ever agree on, now why exactly did you barge into my office unannounced?” Alejandro asked, the curiosity and slight annoyance visible on his face. Before giving him an answer, I shifted my gaze to Simone and signalled for her to take her exit which she obeyed.
“Whenever you get bored of that child, I’m only a phone call away baby” Simone purred as she strutted out of the office, her heels clicking down the hall until it was nothing more than a faint whisper. Shaking my head, I brought my attention back to Amelia’s father and took a seat before shedding light on my true intentions for being here.
“Your childish game of attempting to intimidate me with empty threats is getting a bit old. If you’re going for the whole big bad father figure thing, the least you could do is show your face instead of leaving meaningless sheets of paper with my receptionist” I explained, surprised at how collected I sounded despite my every intention being to rip him a new one.
“Oh please, do you really think I have the time or the energy to be wasting writing you notes much less paying you a visit” he questioned clearly amused at my accusations.
“I mean what else could you possibly be doing in your free time other than screwing around with a woman young enough to be your daughter”
“Let me make this clear to you boy, I hate you. The only thing keeping me from destroying your life is my little girl being hopelessly in love with you but let’s face it, it’s only a matter of time before she realizes how much better she could do”
“Don’t flatter yourself Alejandro. You don’t have the means nor the money to even scrape away an ounce of my success and as far as your daughter’s concerned, she doesn’t even see you as a father so I suggest you stop attempting to pick up the pieces of your failed relationship with her and move on with your life and leave us alone.” I snarled, throwing my chair back in anger. Not wanting to waste anymore of my day, I stormed out of the office the same way I came in.
Pushing the door to the stairwell, I opted to walk down the stairs instead of getting stuck in the elevator with the strange fellow from earlier plus it helped cool my anger a bit. Making it back to the lobby, I smugly nodded at the guard from earlier before continuing towards the door but sadly, I was stopped in my tracks by a voice shouting my name.
“Ivan Stone, Ivan Stone” the voice yelled as I turned to confront the owner who was none other than Mr. Philip Wagner.
“I’m beginning to think you’re following me around” I muttered only slightly joking.
“Though I’m sure that would be a wonderful experience, I came to ask you a question” he answered, the joyful smile still plastered on his face. A few moments passed without him saying anything resulting in me raising an eyebrow, silently telling him to get on with it.
“I’m hosting this karaoke night at the Karaoke Crave and was hoping you and Amelia could make an appearance.” He asked, the excitement noticeable on his face.Belonging © NôvelDram/a.Org.
“Karaoke isn’t really my scene but I do appreciate-” i began to dismiss his offer before getting cut off.
“Come on lad, when’s the last time you took Amelia out for date night?” he continued, hellbent on getting a yes from me.
“If I say ok will you leave me alone” I asked defeatedly not wanting to hear the word karaoke again.
“Awesome! It’s tomorrow night at 8pm and don’t forget to bring Amelia” he exclaimed handing me a flyer before rushing off to god knows where. Finally making it to my driver, I hopped in and closed my eyes thankful for the peace which was a complete contrast from today’s series of events.
Amelia’s pov.
After a few hours of going back and forth on decoration ideas, we finally reached a consensus on what theme to base the dinner around. We decided on a greek inspired event, the main colors being white and gold with olive green accents to give a pop of color and display the captivating plants blooming in Spain this time of year.