Chapter 5: A Deal with the Devil

Evelyn sat frozen at her desk, staring at the folder as if it were a ticking time bomb. Sterling Enterprises. Of all the companies in the world, of all the potential clients, why did it have to be his?

Her mind raced through a thousand ways to get out of it, but none seemed viable. Turning down a major client without a valid reason would not only raise suspicions but might also jeopardize her career. No, she had to handle this the only way she knew how—like a professional.

She exhaled sharply, picked up the folder, and marched to the conference room where the first meeting was scheduled. Her heels clicked against the marble floor, each step an effort to maintain her composure.

When she stepped inside, she found Alexander already there, leaning casually against the long conference table. He looked perfectly at ease, as if he owned the room. Which, technically, he did.

"Right on time," he mused, his lips curling into that familiar smirk. "I like that."

Evelyn set her folder down with a little more force than necessary. "Let's get this over with."

He chuckled, taking a seat across from her. "Still as feisty as ever."

She ignored the comment and opened her notes. "Mr. Sterling, your company is looking to restructure its marketing campaign, correct?"

He leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand. "You know, you can still call me Alex. No need for formalities."

She clenched her jaw. "Let's keep this professional."

His expression turned serious for a moment, his eyes searching hers. Then he nodded. "Fine. Business it is."

As the meeting progressed, Evelyn found herself reluctantly impressed by his insights. He had always been sharp, but now he was even more refined, more strategic. It made it all the more frustrating that he was still the same man who had once broken her heart.

When the meeting finally ended, Alexander stood and adjusted his cuffs. "Dinner. Tomorrow night."

She blinked. "Excuse me?"

"You heard me. Business dinner. You'll need more details about my company, and I'd rather discuss it over a good meal."

She hesitated, knowing she should say no, but professionalism won. "Fine. But strictly business."

His smirk returned. "Of course."

As she walked away, she had the sinking feeling she had just made a deal with the devil.