Chapter Ten
Shaun and Mae enter Mae's office.
"What is it that you desire, Shaun?" Mae inquired.
"I would like for you to accompany me on a date," Shaun responded, eliciting a hearty laugh from Mae.
"I am aware of your reputation as a charmer, Shaun, but do you truly think I am that gullible?" Mae questioned.
"I fail to comprehend," he replied.
"You are romantically involved with my close friend, yet you propose a date with me? What do you take me for?" she asked, her tone laced with anger.
"I am not romantically involved with Bella. We have not progressed to that stage. Our relationship is purely platonic," he clarified.
"Our perspectives do not align," she remarked.
"You are familiar with Bella's nature. She is relentless in her pursuits," he pointed out.
"I am unable to accept your date proposal," she stated.
"Why is that?" he inquired.
"I simply do not wish to. Moreover, after the incident last week, can you genuinely expect us to maintain a friendship?" she questioned.
"I am attempting to offer my apologies for my behavior and words. I wish to make amends," he responded.
"And you believe asking me out is the solution to rectify your wrongs?" she raised an eyebrow in skepticism.
"May I have the opportunity to demonstrate my sincerity?" he requested.
"I am willing to grant you another chance, but be forewarned, if you betray my trust, I will retaliate in unforeseen manners," she cautioned.
"I assure you, I will not disappoint," he promised.
"For your own sake, I hope you keep your word," she warned.
"I shall pick you up at six," he informed.
"Until then," she bid him farewell as he exited the office.
"What could his intentions be?" she pondered.
In Mae's suite at the RX hotels, Mae and Bella were observed lounging on the bed engaged in conversation.
"You were correct about Ethan. He is more attractive than Shaun," Bella remarked.
"So, you now concur with me," Mae responded.
"Is he currently involved with someone?" Bella inquired.
"He is romantically involved with Kelly," Mae disclosed with a sly grin.
"He is dating Kelly?! That clarifies why she acted so protective and self-assured," Bella remarked.
"Please refrain from interfering in their romantic relationship," Mae advised.
"I will make an effort, but I intend to retaliate against Kelly," Bella stated.
"How was your trip to Paris? I heard you encountered some difficulties there," Mae inquired.
"Being a model can be quite vexing at times. It feels as though I am under constant scrutiny and evaluation," Bella complained.
"Well, you made that choice, so you must learn to cope with it," Mae stated.
"If you are going to adopt that tone, then kindly refrain from prying into my personal affairs," Bella retorted.
"I apologize for overstepping my bounds as a friend," Mae expressed.
"Let's forget about that. What transpired between you and Shaun?" Bella asked with curiosity.
"He asked me out on a date," Mae revealed.
"He did what?" Bella exclaimed.
"I declined his offer because you two are in a relationship and you are my closest friend. However, he provided me with a surprising response," Mae explained.
"What was his response?" Bella inquired, her eyes flashing with anger.
"He claimed that you two were not actually dating and that you were merely presuming. He also indicated that you were merely a means to an end for him. In essence, he was deceiving you," Mae disclosed with a smile forming on her lips.
"That is an impossibility. He cannot select you over me," Bella retorted.
"And why, Bella? I possess greater wealth and superior physical appearance. He would be unwise to opt for you," Mae remarked.
"I am a model, Mae, while you are merely a secretary in your father's enterprise. Any sensible man would favor me over you on any given day," Bella asserted.
"And yet, Shaun chose me," Mae countered.
"Cease your premature assumptions, Mae. He is merely utilizing you as well," Bella remarked with a derisive smile.
Mae rose from the bed and smirked. "Your words hold no power to upset me or bring you satisfaction. You overreached, and now it is all unraveling," Mae stated.
"How dare you, Mae," Bella exclaimed.
"Do not overlook your subordinate status, Bella. You have always been one and still are. Please refrain from causing damage here, as you lack the means to replace anything," Mae sneered.
"You...
"Farewell, my dearest friend," Mae uttered with a smile before gracefully exiting her chambers.
"How dare she offend me," Bella exclaimed, violently shattering a table lamp in her fury.
"You are not superior to me," Bella shouted once more, her breaths growing rapid with anger."
Later that evening, Ethan and Kelly enjoy a cozy movie night in Kelly's luxurious suite, while Mae and Shaun indulge in a delectable dinner at the esteemed Starlite restaurant in the prestigious RX hotels. Bella opts to spend the night in Mae's suite, intending to sneak out later and discreetly observe Mae and Shaun during their dinner.
Following their dinner, Shaun gallantly escorts Mae back to her suite, as Bella hurriedly makes her way back to join them. Upon arriving at Mae's suite, Mae and Shaun are observed standing in front of the door, locked in a captivating gaze with each other.
"I had a pleasant time," Mae said, breaking the silence.
"I am pleased that you enjoyed yourself," Shaun said, leaning in closer, his gaze fixed on her lips.
"Shaun," she murmured as he drew her nearer and kissed her.
Mae's eyes widened in astonishment at Shaun's unexpected gesture, prompting her to swiftly withdraw. "Have I erred in some manner?" he inquired, just as Mae delivered a firm slap across his face. "Never repeat such an act," she declared resolutely, as she swung open the door to the suite.
"Why did you strike me, Mae?" he inquired.
"Thank you for the evening out. Please ensure you apply ice to that cheek. Goodnight," she stated as she strolled into her suite and shut the door.
"This is precisely the reason I sought to avoid any involvement with her," he muttered while clutching his right cheek.
He lingered in front of the door, anticipating her emergence, but she did not appear, prompting him to depart.
The following day, Mae orchestrates a soirée to commemorate the inauguration of the latest RX hotel extension. The festivity unfolds within the opulent confines of the private grand hall, where executives from RX Hotels and Shaun's corporation convene. Notable dignitaries are also observed engaging in lively discourse with one another.
Mae elegantly enters the grand hall alongside Ethan. She exudes sophistication in a black off-shoulder gown with a double high slit, complemented by chic black ankle-strap heels. Adorning her ensemble are dazzling silver chandelier earrings, a delicate festoon necklace, and stylish open bangles. Her nails are impeccably painted with a striking red hue, matching the allure of her glossy red lips.
Ethan is dressed in a sleek black button-up shirt paired with impeccably tailored navy wool trousers that boast a tapered fit. Completing his ensemble is a sophisticated navy single-breasted suit jacket and polished black brogue shoes. Adding a touch of luxury, he sports a silver wristwatch embellished with diamonds. His hair is styled back with a single strand elegantly falling to the side.
"Did you anticipate losing that strand?" Mae inquired as they strolled towards the board members.
"It simply occurred," Ethan replied with a grin.
"It appears to have a will of its own," she remarked.
"Perhaps it does," he acknowledged.
"Nice to see you, Mae," Chairman Owen greeted as she embraced him.
"How was the journey to Paris?" Mae inquired.
"It was a much-needed getaway," Chairman Owen responded.
"I'm delighted you had a wonderful time," Mae expressed.
"I am not the only one who had an enjoyable time," Chairman Owen remarked with a smile.
"And to whom are you alluding?" Mae questioned.
"I am alluding to you, my dear. Don't try to convince me that you and Ethan didn't have a bit of fun," Chairman Owen teased.
"Uncle Owen, it was strictly professional between us," Mae stated as she blushed.
"I never implied otherwise," Chairman Owen reassured."Let's just move on," Mae suggested.
"Mae, I have some fantastic news," the Executive Director exclaimed excitedly.
"I am all ears," Mae stated.
"Rebecca just confirmed that our new hotel is fully booked," the Executive Director remarked.
"Oh my goodness, that's amazing," Mae exclaimed.
"Your plan to bring Kelly was a brilliant notion," the Executive Director noted.
"Yes, we are greatly indebted to you and Ethan," Chairman Owen expressed.
"We are pleased that we could be of assistance," Ethan remarked.
"Your father would be immensely proud of you," Chairman Owen stated.
"Thank you so much, Uncle Owen. I must go see my father and Michael right away," Mae declared.
"Of course," Chairman Owen replied.
"I'll catch up with you later, Ethan," Mae said as she walked away.
"How did things go with Mae?" Chairman Owen inquired.
"Exceeding expectations," Ethan responded.
"That young lady has endured significant challenges. It is heartening to witness her genuine smile," Chairman Owen remarked.
"I wish for her swift discovery of happiness," Ethan expressed.
"How did the negotiations with Feng Teng fare?" Chairman Owen inquired.
"We reached a mutual agreement. We were open to concessions to accommodate their requirements," Ethan disclosed.
"You accepted their proposal?" Chairman Owen sought confirmation.
"Yes, and we skillfully guided them to believe it was entirely their idea," Ethan replied with a subtle grin.
"You are quite cunning. I am astonished you managed to sway them away from Blackwood," Chairman Owen commented.
"It was not a formidable task, especially considering Blackwood's lack of strength," Ethan explained.
"Would it be possible to entice you to join my team?" Chairman Owen proposed.
"Your offer is gracious, Chairman Owen, but I am indebted to Mr. Grayson and committed to Shaun," Ethan declined respectfully.
"You are an exceptional young man," Chairman Owen praised.
"Thank you, Mr. Owen. I must bid farewell now. It was a pleasure conversing with you once more," Ethan concluded.
"Of course," Chairman Owen replied with a smile.
"He will make a splendid husband for our dear Mae," the ED predicted.
"Indeed, he will," Chairman Owen agreed.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the hall, Mae approached her father and brother."Did the two of you miss me?" she inquired.
"Mae," Mr. Wilson said as he embraced her.
"I missed you greatly," Mae responded.
"Do not act like a child. We were only absent for four days," Michael stated as Mae embraced him.
"There is no reason to be envious. You will always be my darling," Mae playfully remarked.
"You're quite vexing," Michael retorted.
"How was your time with Kelly and Ethan this week?" Mr. Wilson inquired.
"It was excellent, thanks to Ethan," Mae answered.
"Are we to anticipate something developing between the two of you?" Michael questioned.
"Why is everyone getting that impression?" Mae inquired.
"You two make a lovely pair," Michael observed.
"Ethan and I are merely colleagues, so nothing romantic will ever occur between us," Mae clarified.
"Only time will tell," Michael responded with a smile.
"Is it too late to be rid of you?" Mae questioned.
"You wouldn't do that because it would shatter your heart," Michael assured.
"Stop inflating your importance," Mae remarked.
"Enough from the both of you. You are squabbling like children," Mr. Wilson interjected.
"We love you too, dad," Mae said with a broad smile.
"Indeed, you do," Mr. Wilson remarked.
"I must depart promptly, lest Kelly becomes displeased," Mae stated.
"Convey my greetings to her," Michael requested.
"Very well," Mae acquiesced as she departed.
"I am truly elated for her," Mr. Wilson expressed.
"Likewise," Michael replied with a grin.
On the opposite end of the hall, Ethan engages in conversation with a gentleman. His complexion is cream-colored, with a rugged, radiant, and taut texture, complemented by slender, sparsely arched eyebrows. His elongated visage, dimpled chin, and defined cheekbones harmonize with his slender, pointed nose and plump, rounded lips. His glossy, jet-black hair is meticulously groomed and slicked back, in harmony with his wide, keen, and deeply-set hazel eyes that exude a luminous quality. He stands at an average height and possesses a robust build.
"Why did you neglect to inform me of your collaboration with Mae?" he inquired.
"Uncle Rodríguez, it was not of great significance. Moreover, I wished to once again demonstrate to Kelly that I surpass you," Ethan retorted.
"You resemble your mother greatly," Rodríguez remarked.
"How is she?" Ethan inquired.
"She longs for your presence, yet she is unable to persuade you to return," Rodríguez responded.
"I too yearn for her, but I have a responsibility to serve the Grayson family, akin to my father," Ethan stated.
"You have matured significantly, Ethan. I heard you successfully lured Feng Teng from Blackwood," Rodríguez mentioned.
"I did not lure them. They willingly expressed their desire to collaborate with us," Ethan clarified.
"What actions did you take with them?" Rodríguez questioned.
"Uncle, they possess the capability to make autonomous decisions without external influence," Ethan replied.
"At times, I ponder how Shaun would fare in your absence," Rodríguez mused.
"Well, I can envision a few scenarios, but I believe his initial course of action would involve dismantling his father's enterprise," Ethan remarked, causing Rodríguez to chuckle.
"How are your relations with Kelly?" Rodríguez inquired.
"We remain friends," Ethan responded.
"Why are you reluctant to grant her another opportunity?" Rodríguez probed.
"She desires marriage, a prospect I do not share. I cannot allow her to forego a fulfilling life with someone who truly loves her due to my personal reservations," Ethan explained.
"I understand your rationale for declining marriage, but remember, your father would have wished for your happiness through marriage," Rodríguez reminded.
"It is not as straightforward as that, uncle," Ethan admitted.
"Ethan, you cannot constantly dictate the course of events in your life. You must dismantle the barriers you have erected around yourself," Rodríguez articulated.
"Thank you, uncle," Ethan responded with a slight smile.
"I must depart now. I wish to prevent Robert from ruining my desserts," Rodríguez remarked.
"Perhaps consider being lenient with Robert," Ethan suggested.
"I will make an effort," Rodríguez stated as he departed, while Bella approached Ethan.
"It appears that you have a strong rapport with Chef Rodríguez," she remarked.
"Hello, Bella," he greeted.
"It seems we've crossed paths once again," she noted.
"What is it you seek from me?" he inquired.
"You possess a rather intriguing demeanor," she observed.
"Looks can be deceiving," he replied.
"Why would a man as handsome as you be content working as Shaun's assistant?" she inquired.
"And why would a woman as beautiful as you settle for being Mae's subordinate?" he questioned.
"What has Mae divulged to you?" she probed.
"Mae didn't disclose much, but Kelly provided a wealth of information," he disclosed.
"Do not give credence to anything Kelly has said. She tends to harbor animosity towards me. I often ponder why she harbors such resentment," she explained.
"What is it that you desire, Bella?" he inquired.
"I simply wish for us to cultivate a friendship," she responded.
"You are Shaun's girlfriend, and I am his personal assistant, therefore, forming a friendship between us is unfeasible," he stated.
"How do our respective roles in his life prevent us from forming a bond of friendship?" she questioned.
"I am averse to being in the company of my superior's romantic partner," he responded.
"Drop the pretense, Ethan. Are you insinuating that you have never harbored the desire to socialize with one of Shaun's paramours?" she inquired.
"I have never entertained such thoughts, but hypothetically speaking, I do not engage with pre-owned items," he replied.
"What is the implication behind that statement?" she asked.
"Do not involve me in the manipulation you are orchestrating with Shaun," he replied.
I perceive you to be resilient," she remarked with a smile.
"I am pleased that you have taken away something significant from our discussion," he responded.
"I am not easily swayed, Bella, and even if I were, you would not be able to break me in a million years. My suggestion to you is to concentrate on maintaining possession of your present companion, rather than pursuing something that is unattainable," he remarked.
"What do you mean by that?" she inquired.
"Shaun intends to propose to Mae, and you, of all people, should be aware of what Mae's response will be," he responded.
"Shaun would never engage in such behavior towards me," she asserted.
"As his personal assistant, I possess access to information that is beyond your reach. Rest assured, Shaun will not allow you to be portrayed unfavorably in the eyes of the public," he assured.
"You are simply teasing me," she retorted.
"How about you inquire directly with Shaun?"
"I shall return shortly to demonstrate your error," she declared as she departed in haste.
"I truly require respite from the advances of his girlfriend," he lamented with a heavy sigh.
On the balcony of the hall, Shaun and Ella are engaged in a conversation of significance.
"How did the dinner engagement unfold yesterday?" inquired Ella.
"I extended a gesture, and she rebuffed me," responded Shaun.
"This is going to prove more challenging than we initially expected," she remarked.
"You assured me it would be effortless," he retorted.
"I only mentioned that due to your assertion that she harbors an infatuation for you," she explained.
"What course of action do you propose we take at this juncture?" he inquired.
"You must endeavor to win Mae's affections," she advised.
"That will prove to be quite challenging. Unlike Bella, she is not easily swayed, so winning her affection will require considerable effort," he remarked.
"You must be willing to take a risk, even if it means involving the media," she advised.
"In that case, what course of action do you recommend?" he inquired.
"You must familiarize yourself with her preferences more thoroughly," she responded as Bella emerged to join them.
"We must have a conversation," Bella stated.
"I shall depart now," Ella said as she strolled back into the hall.
"What seems to be the matter?" he inquired.
"Why did you take Mae out for dinner yesterday?" she queried.
"That was not a romantic outing. We simply had a business dinner to deliberate on the launch of our latest hotel establishment," he explained.
"If this was purely a business matter, why did you engage in physical intimacy with her?" she inquired.
"Bella, I have the autonomy to express affection towards anyone I choose, whenever I desire. Therefore, I kindly request that you abandon this display of insecurity, as it portrays you in a desperate light," he responded.
"Shaun, should I uncover any evidence of you pursuing Mae romantically, I assure you that I will take actions to bring about your downfall," she warned.
"Bella, as a model, your sphere of influence is considerably narrower compared to mine. Should you misstep, the consequences will be evident, and we will witness who emerges unscathed," he declared.
"You shall not evade accountability for this," she declared.
"You are not my significant other, therefore refrain from meddling in my private affairs," he retorted as he strolled into the hallway, prompting Bella to scream in response.
In the corridor, Kelly approaches Mr. Wilson and Michael.
"It is a pleasure to see you again, Mr. Wilson," Kelly greeted.
"Kelly, it has indeed been a while," Mr. Wilson acknowledged.
"Yes, it has," Kelly responded with a smile.
"Hello, Kelly," Michael greeted.
"You look absolutely stunning, Michael," Kelly complimented.
"Thank you," Michael replied.
"I have something important to discuss with both of you," Kelly stated.
"Is it of significant importance?" Michael inquired.
"It pertains to Mae," Kelly revealed.
"What has happened to Mae?" Mr. Wilson inquired.
"We cannot discuss it here," Kelly stated.
"Michael, let us depart," Mr. Wilson suggested as they exited the corridor.
Upon entering the board meeting room, Kelly, Michael, and Mr. Wilson proceeded.
"Kelly, what transpired with Mae in our absence?" Mr. Wilson questioned.
"Mae and I engaged in conversation, during which I inquired about her mother, a topic she evidently found unsettling," Kelly explained.
"That is her typical response; discussing her mother is a sensitive subject for her," Mr. Wilson remarked.
"I understand, however, this time her response was distinct," Kelly stated.
"In what manner was it different?" Michael inquired.
"She displayed a heightened level of anger compared to her usual demeanor, and she had an intense emotional outburst that truly frightened me," Kelly explained.
"So, Mr. Wilson inquired?"
"I suspect Mae is in contact with her mother," Kelly responded.
"What do you mean by Mae's contact with her mother?" Mr. Wilson asked with irritation.
"Father, please make an effort to compose yourself," Michael interjected.
"I observed Mae concealing herself to make a phone call last Saturday, so I confiscated her phone and dialed the number on my own device. It turned out to be her mother," Kelly disclosed.
"How dare she reenter our lives? Hasn't she inflicted enough pain upon us?" Mr. Wilson demanded angrily.
"Dad, you must try to remain calm. I do not wish for you to experience another cardiac episode," Michael urged.
"Why is Mae subjecting me to this? Why is she unwilling to acknowledge that Kate will never reciprocate her feelings?" Mr. Wilson questioned.
"I also perused their correspondence and discovered that Mae has been sending her a substantial amount of money," Kelly revealed.
"I believe that will suffice for today. Thank you kindly, Kelly," Michael concluded.
Mr. Wilson clutches his chest and collapses into a chair.
"Father, are you feeling well?" inquired Michael.
"How could she?" Mr. Wilson inquired, his body beginning to tremble uncontrollably.
"Kelly, please contact emergency services and ensure Mae's immediate presence," instructed Michael.
"Very well," Kelly replied as she hastily exited the room.
In the waiting room of a Houston hospital, Kelly is observed pacing anxiously. Bella and Shaun enter the room.
"What brings you both here?" Kelly inquired.
"We were informed of the situation and wanted to offer our support," Shaun responded.
"Have you crossed paths with Mae, inquired Kelly?"
"Is she present here, inquired Shaun?"
"No, she is not present. I have attempted to contact her via phone, but it is switched off. Could she still be located at the hotel, Kelly inquired?"
"Mae is not situated at the hotel," replied Shaun.
"Where is Ethan, inquired Kelly?"
"I have not encountered him since the party," replied Shaun.
"Please inform me if you receive any communication from either of them," Kelly stated.
"Of course," Shaun responded as Kelly departed.
"Why have you brought me to this place?" Bella inquired.
"I am aware that you lack a conscience, but please feign one," Shaun retorted.
"I am departing for home," she declared.
"Ensure you arrive home safely," he advised.
"Will you be accompanying me?" she inquired.
"I will be remaining here. I shall see you in the morning," he responded.
"Goodnight," she bid as she exited the room abruptly.
"I hope Mr. Wilson recovers swiftly, or else my plans will be thwarted," he remarked as he settled into a chair.