AFFAIRS OF THE HEART

39| Disturbed Emotions..

Abuja, Nigeria.

Jalal returned to work a week after the wedding. During that short week together, he and Jalilah grew to understand each other more deeply. He came to realize she wasn't the over-pampered kid he once thought; instead, she was a carefree, gentle, and softhearted girl.

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock, and shortly after, his secretary entered with his permission.

"Sir, you have a guest."

"A guest? I don't recall expecting anyone today," he replied, raising his brows.

"Yes, sir, but she insisted on coming in. She said she has important issues to discuss with you."

"Maya, you know I only see people by appointment. That's the rule here."

"I know, sir. But she said you know each other and that it's urgent."

"Just because someone claims they know me doesn't mean they truly do, Maya. This should be the first and last time you bring me something like this. Let her in."

"I'm so sorry, Sir." She exited.

The sound of heels clacking against the tiled floor and the strong scent of perfume drew Jalal's attention to the visitor. A smile curved on her matte-smeared lips as she cat-walked into the office, her wide hips swaying purposefully. Nabila was doing all she could to capture his attention.

"Do I have permission to sit, Mr. Marshal?" she asked, her lips moving in a seductive manner.

"You don't expect me to say no when you're already in," he responded, his tone indifferent.

"Thank you," she said with a sinister smile.

"And you are?" Jalal raised a brow, causing Nabila's mood to drop slightly. Did he really not recognize her?

Masking her disappointment, she replied, "Nabila. Nabila Safana. My sister was involved in that little altercation with your wif—er, sister, I mean."

"And to what do I owe this visit? Or should I ask what brings you here?" he said, keeping his focus on the files in front of him.

"C'mon, Mr. Marshal, is this how you receive guests? Don't you offer refreshments?" She raised a brow, chewing her gum provocatively.

"I offer refreshments to expected visitors, not to uninvited guests," he replied coldly, sending a chill down her spine.

"My bad." She forced a smile. "Actually, I'm here on behalf of my father's company, Safana Groups. Many business owners and our board members have praised your company's marketing strategies. We'd love to partner with your company."

"There are many factors to consider before agreeing to such a partnership. I've heard of Safana Groups from a few acquaintances, and I'm sorry to say, from what I've heard, your company doesn't quite meet our standards."

Nabila's face tightened at Jalal's words. "What do you mean, Mr. Marshal? As far as I know, our company is one of the most reputable here. Whatever you've heard is false."

"Miss Nabila, I trust my sources enough to know they wouldn't fabricate stories just to tarnish your company's image."

"If you're so confident in your sources, Mr. Marshal, then why don't you tell me what they said about us?"

"As I said, it's not a matter for discussion, Miss Nabila." Jalal's tone remained calm.

She was about to respond when he cut her off. "But I'll conduct my own investigation. If the results are positive, we might consider a deal. If negative, our company cannot afford to risk its reputation for yours."