Liam's pov
Apexion digital media
As I hung up the phone, I couldn't help but feel concerned for Aurora. She sounded stressed and overwhelmed and I made a mental note to arrive early at Bellavita, to grab a good table and order us some drinks. I wanted everything to be perfect for our meeting.
I glanced at my watch and saw that I had a few hours before our lunch meeting. I decided to use the time to review some documents but my mind kept wandering back to Aurora and her situation.
I picked up my phone and dialed Ethan's number, and he answered on the first ring. "Hey, what's up?" he asked, his tone casual.
"Ethan, I need a favor," I said, getting straight to the point. "There's a situation with Aurora's company that requires immediate attention. I've been tracking the situation, and it's clear that someone's spreading malicious rumors about her company's financial troubles. I need you to use your connections to get those blogs to take down the posts ASAP."
Ethan's tone turned serious, and he knew better than to question my instructions. "Consider it done, Liam. I'll make some calls and get it sorted out."
"See that you do," I replied, my voice firm and commanding. "I want those posts gone within the next 24 hours. Aurora's reputation is on the line, and I won't let it be tarnished by baseless rumors. Keep me updated on your progress."
I ended the call, knowing fully well that Ethan would help mitigate the damage. Now, I was looking forward to my lunch meeting with Aurora, where I planned to suggest a solution that could potentially shift the attention away from Aurora's company struggles.
I stepped out of the office elevator into the lobby, my confident stride commanding the attention of my staff. They watched as I walked past their desks, their eyes following me with a mix of admiration and intimidation. I nodded to a few of them, acknowledging their greetings, but didn't break my stride. My assistant, Luke, looked up from his computer and caught my eye. "Have a good day, Mr. Flynn," he said, his voice professional.
I smiled briefly, a hint of warmth in an otherwise stoic expression. "Thank you, Luke. I'll be back in an hour. Keep an eye on things while I'm out."
Luke nodded, his expression serious. "Will do, sir. I've got everything under control."
With that, I walked out of the lobby.
I arrived at Bellavita and requested a table next to the window. The waitress led me to the table and I took a seat, enjoying the view of the city outside. I waited for Aurora to arrive and a few minutes later, she walked in, looking stunning in a pair of light blue pants that complemented her skin tone, paired with a white top that added a touch of elegance to her overall appearance.
'She looks absolutely breathtaking,' I thought to myself.
Her eyes scanned the room, and when they landed on me, a hint of a smile played on her lips.
"Aurora," I said, standing up to greet her. My voice was low and smooth, but my mind was racing with possibilities. She smiled, and we exchanged a brief kiss on the cheek before sitting down. The sunlight streaming through the window highlighted her features, and I couldn't help but notice the determination in her eyes.
After we ordered, I reached across the table and took her hand. "Aurora, I think I have a plan to help your company," I said, my voice low and urgent. "What is it?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"I was thinking... maybe it's time we announce our engagement to the press," I suggested, my eyes locked onto hers. "If we're seen as a happy couple, about to start a new life together, it could shift the attention away from your company's financial struggles."
Aurora's eyes widened in surprise, and she looked at me like I was crazy. "You think announcing our marriage would help my company?" she asked, her voice laced with skepticism.
I nodded, my expression unwavering. "Yes, I do. But there's a catch. We'll need to make it convincing. The press needs to believe we're in love."
Aurora's face went still, and I could see the wheels turning in her mind. "And what's in it for you?" she asked, her voice cool and calculating.
I smiled, my eyes never leaving hers. "Let's just say I have my reasons," I said, with a low voice.
Aurora's gaze narrowed, her eyes searching for answers. "What kind of reasons?" she pressed, her voice firm.
I leaned in closer. "Let's just say that I have a vested interest in seeing your company succeed. And I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen."
Aurora's eyes sparkled with intrigue, and I could see the curiosity burning within her. "Whatever it takes?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.
I nodded, my smile growing wider. "Whatever it takes," I confirmed, my eyes locked onto hers.
The air between us seemed to thicken, the tension palpable. I could see the hesitation in Aurora's eyes, the uncertainty. But I also saw a spark of resolve.
"What do you say, Aurora?" I asked, my voice low and persuasive. "Are you ready to take a chance on me, and on our fake engagement?"
Aurora's gaze held mine, her eyes searching for answers. And then, after what felt like an eternity, she nodded. "Okay," she said, her voice firm. "I'll do it."
I smiled, feeling a rush of triumph. "Excellent," I said, my voice smooth. "I knew you'd see things my way."
But as I looked into Aurora's eyes, I couldn't help but wonder... was she playing me, or was I playing her? The game was on, and only time would tell.