Oceanarium

Severa's POV

The next meeting with Eugene wasn't just between the two of us—it was a full-scale project meeting with key people from both our teams. Which meant I had no choice but to sit across from him and act like my past wasn't unraveling in front of me.

The project? A resort mall.

The vision? A seamless blend of luxury and leisure, catering to both the general public and the ultra-rich.

It was Celine's brainchild, but somewhere along the way, I had thrown in a suggestion—an oceanarium-style feature that could make the resort mall stand out. I never expected anyone to take it seriously.

But now, here we were, finalizing one of the biggest projects under Emperium Construction.

And Eugene Dominguez—my first love and first heartbreak—was sitting at the head of the consultant's table, listening intently to every word I said.

I hated it.

I hated that his presence alone unnerved me. I hated that every time I glanced up, I caught him staring at me with that unreadable expression.

But most of all, I hated that my heart still reacted—even after all these years.

CONFERENCE ROOM - EMPERIUM HEADQUARTERS

Celine stood at the front of the room, commanding attention like she always did.

"So, to summarize, we'll be breaking ground by the start of second quarter this year," she said, pointing at the projected timeline on the screen. "The expected completion date is within two to three years. But of course, that depends on how efficient we can be with resources, manpower, and unexpected roadblocks."

I leaned back in my chair, arms crossed. Efficiency was the entire reason Eugene was here.

As both the consultant and supplier, his company would be deeply involved in the execution of the project, from structural planning to material innovation.

Which meant… this wasn't just a one-time meeting.

We were going to work together for the next three years.

Great. Just great.

Eugene, who had been quiet the whole time, finally spoke.

"We've reviewed the blueprints and preliminary site assessments, and everything looks good so far," he said, flipping through his copy of the documents. His voice was calm, professional, almost detached—like we weren't once something. "But I have some concerns about the oceanarium feature."

I stiffened.

He looked directly at me. "Severa, since this was your suggestion, maybe you can walk us through the feasibility study?"

I met his gaze, keeping my expression unreadable. "Of course."

I stood, switching slides on the projector.

"Integrating an oceanarium-style feature into the mall-resort hybrid presents both engineering and ecological challenges," I started, pointing at the plans. "To create a sustainable environment, we need to factor in water filtration systems, marine life compatibility, and overall maintenance costs. Our initial feasibility study shows that while it's ambitious, it's definitely doable—provided we use the right materials and technology."

I turned slightly, catching Eugene watching me with an intensity that sent unwanted shivers down my spine.

I kept going.

"We've already explored acrylic paneling options, structural reinforcements, and potential partnerships with marine biologists to ensure the project aligns with environmental regulations," I continued. "If we execute it right, this could be the first of its kind in the country."

Silence.

Then, Eugene nodded.

"It's impressive," he admitted. "But have you considered the long-term moisture impact on the surrounding structures? If not properly managed, it could weaken the foundation over time."

"Yes, we factored that in," I countered smoothly. "The solution? A multi-layered vapor barrier system and an anti-corrosion treatment for load-bearing structures. We'll also implement humidity control technology within the enclosed areas."

Eugene smirked—just slightly.

I gritted my teeth.

That was the same smirk he used to give me before challenging me to anything—from chess matches to engineering debates back in high school.

"Alright," he said, leaning back. "Then I have no further concerns on that—yet."

I sat back down, gripping my pen a little too tightly.

Celine, sensing the tension, quickly wrapped up the discussion.

"Great. If there are no more questions, we'll move forward with the initial phases. Sev, Eugene, I want a more detailed risk assessment report before the next meeting. Let's get this done ASAP."

Meeting adjourned.

AFTER MEETING - INSIDE THE CONFERENCE ROOM

I was gathering my files when a shadow loomed over me.

"You really haven't changed."

That voice.

I closed my eyes for a second before turning around.

Eugene stood there, hands in his pockets, looking at me with that same unreadable expression from earlier.

I forced a neutral tone. "I don't know what you mean."

His lips twitched—almost amused. "You're still the same Severa. Focused. Competitive. Brilliant."

I felt a lump form in my throat.

"Except now," he continued, tilting his head, "you're also cold."

I inhaled sharply. "And you expected me to be what, exactly?"

"Not this," he admitted. "Not like we're total strangers."

I scoffed, crossing my arms. "Aren't we, though?"

Something flickered in his eyes.

A brief second of… guilt? Regret? Nostalgia?

I didn't care.

Or at least, I convinced myself I didn't.

"Look," he sighed. "We're going to be working together for years. We don't have to be friends, but we don't have to be like… this either."

I met his gaze, unflinching. "Like what?"

He searched my face.

But I refused to give him anything.

After a long pause, he finally said, "Forget it."

Then he walked away.

And just like that, it felt like I was seventeen again—watching him leave, pretending it didn't hurt.

I exhaled sharply, forcing the memories back into the grave I had buried them in.

This time, I wouldn't let him affect me.

This time, I was stronger.

Or at least, I had to be.