To Greatness

The long drive back to the villa was quiet, save for the occasional hum of my grandfather's favorite classical station playing softly in the background. My mind was still buzzing with the events of the day—the looks on Sophia's face, the satisfying confirmation of my deal with Sebastian. Everything was falling into place.

As soon as my car rolled to a stop in the expansive driveway, I stepped out and made my way to my grandfather's vehicle. He didn't need me to open his door, but it was a habit I hoped to get used to, one that always brought a faint smile to his face.

"Here you go, Grandpa," I said, pulling the door open and offering my hand.

"Thank you, my angel," he said, his tone warm as he stepped out, his movements deliberate but steady for a man his age.

We walked into the villa together, the grand doors opening effortlessly as we stepped inside. The comforting scent of aged wood and faint hints of jasmine, Maria's favorite cleaning fragrance filled the air. The home felt alive, not just a place of residence but a sanctuary.

Once inside, my grandfather turned to me, a playful glint in his eyes. "Why don't we celebrate today's successful contract signing?"

I laughed, shaking my head at his boundless energy. "You're unbelievable, Grandpa. But you're right, we should."

He signaled to Maria, our trusted housekeeper, who seemed to materialize out of nowhere, her efficient presence always a comfort.

"Maria, fetch one of my best wines from the cellar," he instructed.

"Of course, sir," she said, disappearing down the hallway.

I followed my grandfather to the sitting room, settling into one of the oversized armchairs as he took his usual spot by the fireplace. Despite the grandeur of the space, it always felt cozy when we were together.

Maria returned swiftly, carrying a bottle of deep red wine and two crystal glasses. She poured with practiced precision, then set the bottle down on the table and excused herself.

"To greatness," my grandfather said, raising his glass.

"To greatness," I echoed, clinking my glass against his before taking a sip. The wine was rich and smooth, a perfect choice for the occasion.

For a while, we sat in companionable silence, savoring the moment. But then, my grandfather's expression shifted, growing more serious.

"Angel," he began, his voice lower now, "there's something I've been meaning to discuss with you."

I straightened in my seat, my own expression mirroring his seriousness. "What is it, Grandpa?"

He placed his glass down and leaned forward slightly, his hands clasped together. "I'm not getting any younger," he said, his tone measured but heavy with meaning.

"And very soon, I'll lack the strength to continue heading my company. When that time comes, it will leave everything vulnerable—vulnerable to people who have their eyes on my seat, on what I've built."

I swallowed hard, already sensing where this was going. But I didn't interrupt. I wanted to hear him out completely.

He looked at me, his eyes piercing yet full of warmth. "Morana, I want you to take over my company."

My breath hitched. "What?"

"You're my only grandchild," he continued, his voice steady. "You're intelligent, smart, capable. There's no one else I trust more to protect my legacy. It fits no one other than you."

I stared at him, my mind reeling. "Grandpa, I… What makes you think I'm the best fit? I don't even know much about your company."

He smiled then, that knowing, patient smile of his. "You'll learn, Angel. I'll teach you everything you need to know. You already have what it takes, leadership, determination, and a sharp mind. The rest is just details."

I bit my lip, torn between disbelief and pride. The weight of his words settled on me like a heavy but oddly comforting blanket. He believed in me that much?

I placed my glass down and met his gaze. "So… what do you say?" he asked, his voice soft but expectant.

I took a deep breath, a slow smile spreading across my face. "Yes," I said finally. "I'll do it."

His eyes lit up, and he reached over, patting my hand. "That's my girl."

He rose then, his movements slower but filled with purpose. "This old man is tired," he said with a chuckle. "I'll head up to my room and get some rest."

I stood as well, walking him to the foot of the staircase.

"Two days from now," he added, turning back to look at me, "we'll go to the company together. There's much to prepare."

"Got it, Grandpa. Rest well," I said, watching as he climbed the stairs.

As his figure disappeared around the corner, I stood there for a moment, processing everything. My heart was racing, not with fear but with determination.

I smiled to myself, picking up the empty glasses and the wine bottle to take them to the kitchen. 'To greatness,' I thought.