imalist decor. The city below bustled with life, a stark contrast to the quiet solitude that filled his space. Manuel sat

p thinking abou

was the way she spoke-her boldness, her ability to challenge him without hesitation. She was

" Sophia's voice cut through

t. She was dressed casually, her dark hair pulled back into a loose ponytail. As usual, she

k?" he asked, rai

lock the door? Besides, I liv

ties of her own, Sophia often chose to stay at his place, partly beca

?" she asked, sittin

he replied, taking

a terrible liar. This is about the woman you wer

wned. "How

aw you two talking. It was the first time I've seen you genuinel

"Her name is Mia.

s unexpected. So, what's the story? Did she as

he... she's different, Sophia. Genuine. She wasn't trying to

tened. "Sounds like she

atter. We're from completely different worlds. Someone like he

ou need is someone who doesn't fit into your world. Someone who can

n that kind of connection, but a part of him-the pa

-

a sat cross-legged on the floor, staring at a blank canvas. The morning light

what had compelled her to approach him, but something about him had drawn her in. Despite his ste

James said, breaking

a cup of coffee in hand. James was dressed in his usual laid-back st

itted, brushing a strand

a grin. "Tall, dark, and brood

eyes. "His na

row. "Manuel Carter?

id, her cheek

aim low, do you? So, what's the story? Did

ing. "We just talked. He's... intere

"And you're wondering if yo

numbers or anything. Besides, he's way out of my league.

r. "Mia, you're amazing. If he doesn't see that, it's his loss. But if he does... w

or his unwavering supp

yful nudge. "Now, get to work. That

ush, determined to channel her s

-

e, unable to focus on the stack of reports waiting fo

or the way she had spoken to him as if he were just another person, not a billionaire or a busines

from the doorway. "Your meeting w

g his tie. "Thank you, Andr

ack Mia down in an instant, but something about the idea felt wrong. He didn'

happen naturally. For now, all he could do was focus on the p

-

d in front of her latest painting. The canvas was alive with vibrant color

wonder if Manuel was t

of power and privilege, and hers of creativity and struggle. They were opp

self. She wouldn't chase after Manuel or try to force their paths to cross again.

already at work, setting the s