Chapter 22 New Roles ad old bonds

The next morning, Hazel arrived at Star Entertainment's headquarters promptly at 7:30 a.m. The familiar hum of activity surrounded her as employees bustled through the halls. Her assistant, Mia, met her at the elevator with a clipboard in hand, her demeanor professional yet warm.

"Good morning, Ms. Hazel," Mia said. "The investors' meeting is set for 8:00 a.m. in the main conference room. Mr. Zamiel will be leading, and they are all expecting you to attend."

Hazel gave a curt nod. "Thank you, Mia. Please ensure everything is prepared."

By 8:00 a.m., Hazel stepped into the grand conference room. The space exuded sophistication, with its glass table reflecting the soft glow of the overhead lights. Seated around the table were Star Entertainment's most prominent investors, their conversations ceasing as Zamiel entered the room with his commanding presence.

"Good morning," Zamiel began, his calm yet authoritative voice carrying through the room. "Today, we discuss the future of Star Entertainment. We are embarking on a new project—an ambitious movie production that we expect will redefine our brand."

He paused, his gaze settling on Hazel. "This project demands vision and leadership. That is why I am officially appointing miss Hazel as the head of this production. She will oversee direction, production, and casting."

Applause erupted, and Hazel hesitated before standing. She took a deep breath, concealing her nerves behind a composed expression.

"Thank you for trusting me with this responsibility," Hazel said, her voice steady. "I will dedicate myself fully to this project and ensure its success. I promise not to disappoint you."

The room echoed with supportive nods and murmurs of approval. Although Zamiel noticed the subtle signs of Hazel's apprehension, he remained firm in his decision.

That evening, Zamiel returned home to his family's mansion. As soon as he walked through the grand doors, his mother embraced him tightly, her warmth instantly easing his tired mind.

"Welcome home, Zamiel," she said with a smile. "You must be exhausted. Go upstairs, freshen up, and come down for dinner."

Zamiel nodded like a dutiful son. "Thank you, Mother. I missed you."

"I missed you too," she replied, her tone soft and affectionate.

In the kitchen, the clatter of pots and the aroma of spices filled the air. Zamiel's father, immersed in his cooking, waved absentmindedly. "Welcome back, son," he called out without turning from the stove.

Zamiel chuckled and headed upstairs to his room. As he pushed open the door, he froze. A familiar figure sat comfortably on his bed, focused on a mobile game.

"What do you think you are doing here?" Zamiel asked, arching an eyebrow.

The figure smirked, not looking up. "What does it look like I am doing?"

"I think I need a dog to keep uninvited guests out of my room," Zamiel retorted, his tone laced with humor.

The figure laughed, standing to greet him. " I I missed you , bro!"

Zamiel broke into a grin as Jason pulled him into a tight hug. "Why didn't you tell me you were back?"

Jason pulled away, feigning offense. "Why didn't you tell me you were back in the state? I had to hear it from your mom!"

Zamiel shrugged, a teasing glint in his eyes. "I knew you would find out eventually."

Jason shook his head, chuckling. "You're impossible."

As they sat on the bed, catching up, Jason leaned back with a mischievous grin. "By the way, did your mom tell you about the get-together party tomorrow? It's for our high school classmates, I told her to inform you.

Zamiel raised an eyebrow. "A get-together party? No, she didn't mention it. Are you going?"

"Of course," Jason said, leaning forward. "It'll be fun to see everyone again. You should come too."

Zamiel hesitated for a moment before nodding. "I'll think about it."

After a pause, he added thoughtfully, "Jason, there's something I've been meaning to ask you."

Jason looked at him curiously. "What's on your mind?"

"I've been thinking about Hazel," Zamiel admitted. "We've been working together at Star Entertainment, and seeing her again has brought back a lot of unresolved feelings. I'm considering bringing up our past relationship at the party tomorrow. Do you think I should?"

Jason's eyebrows shot up in surprise but a mischievous grin quickly spread across his face " that a bold move zamiel. But honestly, I think tomorrow is the perfect time to do it . Everybody will be relaxed, and it is a good setting to revisit old memories. Plus hazel works at your company -and is not like both of you can avoid each other forever.

Zamiel sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I just don't want to make things awkward, especially with this new project."

Jason clapped him on the shoulder. "Look, if you feel like it's time to address the past, do it. You've got nothing to lose, and who knows? It might bring you both some closure—or even a new beginning."

Zamiel smiled faintly, grateful for Jason's encouragement. "Thanks, Jason. I'll think about how to approach it."

Jason smirked, leaning back. "Can't wait to see how this plays out. High school reunions always come with surprises."

As their conversation shifted to lighter topics, Zamiel felt a mix of apprehension and determination for the day ahead. The reunion would not only reunite him with old friends but also offer a chance to confront the lingering emotions of his past.