Unexpected Invitation

Stella carefully perused the documents that Truth had just delivered, which confirmed that Mr. Jones had approved the new designs they were proposing for the label.

Stella was jolted out of her thoughts by a soft knock on the door. "Come in," she called out, feeling a bit lethargic. When Truth entered. "Ms. Cruze, there's someone here to see you," she said. Stella furrowed her brow, trying to recall if she had any appointments scheduled. "Who is it?" she inquired. "He said his name is Aaron," Truth replied. Stella's eyes widened, and she let out an exasperated sigh, massaging her forehead. "I thought it was just a joke..." she muttered, feeling drained.

"Should I let him in?"Truth asked. "Yes please."Stella nodded before organizing her desk . Just few minutes later Aaron entered the office with a smirk which Stella reciprocated.

Aaron greeted Stella with a smile, "Good morning, Ms. Cruze."

, "I didn't think you were being serious when you mentioned it earlier." Stella replied,a touch of surprise in her voice"So you didn't expect me to come, huh?"Aaron responded.

"Obviously"Stella stated matter-of-factly .

Aaron's grin widened as he responded, "Well, I did say I'd be coming by, didn't I?"

"I didn't think you'd actually follow through on that," Stella replied bluntly.

"Well, here I am," Aaron said with a shrug, gesturing with open arms as if ready for an embrace.

"Please, take a seat," Stella said, gesturing calmly.

Aaron settled into the chair and nodded. "Thank you," he replied.

Stella continued, "To be honest, I'm not very familiar with the nature of your company and the specific field it operates in."

Aaron began, "I...uh, I work for the Dunn empire."

Stella's eyes widened in disbelief. The mention of the Dunn empire sent a shiver down her spine as an awkward silence filled the room.

Aaron broke the silence, "Um, Stella...?"

Stella's smirk widened. "Ah yes, the Dunn empire. Who sent you? Apollo?" she inquired, her tone somewhat sarcastic.

This question caught Aaron off guard, and the realization that Apollo had been there before him left him visibly frustrated.

"Apollo has already been here?"Aaron inquired

Stella disregarded his question, stating, "Dunn Square, I presume?"

Aaron, feeling a bit annoyed, clarified, "Ms. Cruze, the Dunn Square is distinct from the Dunn Root."

"I hear that often, Mr. Aaron. Every company is unique in its own way."Stella responded bluntly.

"Specifically, the Dunn Square is in the business of manufacturing jewelry and sunglasses," Aaron continued. "They are known for their high-quality products and innovative designs in the luxury market."

Aaron continued, "Their products have gained a reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship and exclusivity. I assure you that this partnership would be very beneficial for your-"

Stella, still listening intently, interrupted Aaron's pitch, "I see. So the Dunn Square specializes in luxury jewelry and sunglass manufacturing?"She asked. "Yes Ms Cruze." Aaron said. "I see. I'll certainly take it into consideration."Stella responded coolly.However, in her mind, she was already dismissing the idea, feeling a pang of annoyance at the potential connection to Apollo.

Aaron stood and prepared to leave. Suddenly he stopped."Um... before I forget, I'd like to extend an invitation to you for a business party." He placed an invitation card on Stella's desk.

"I'll be expecting you," Aaron added.

Stella looked up, her expression still neutral."Are you inviting me to a party when we aren't even business partners yet?" she asked, a hint of skepticism in her tone.

Aaron smirked, undeterred. "I am aware that we aren't officially partners yet, but I believe this party could serve as an excellent opportunity for you to learn more about the Dunn empire and the depth of our capabilities."

Stella pondered silently for a moment before replying, "I'll consider it."

At her response, Aaron nodded, seemingly satisfied with her noncommittal answer. "I hope you'll come," he added confidently, before turning and walking out of her office, leaving the invitation on her desk.