Temptations

Chapter 4: Whispered Strategies

*Teresa*

While immersed in the vibrant ambience of the city, I sought refuge in a cosy spot of a café, delightfully scented with the fragrance of recently prepared coffee. Across from me sat Sacha, my confident best friend, her vibrant personality matching the eclectic charm of her appearance.

Sacha's fiery red hair flattering down her shoulders in loose waves, a striking contrast to her emerald green eyes that sparkled with mischief. Her fashion sense, a mix of vintage and modern, always turned heads in any crowd.

As I sipped my latte, I leaned in, "Sacha, I need to secure this deal with John. It's a game-changer, and I can't afford to lose."

She flashed a knowing smile, her voice laced with confidence. "Teresa, my dear, what's your issue?"

I outlined the situation with Elijah, the clash of our methods, and my more personal approach. Sacha listened attentively, her expressive eyes reflecting a mix of intrigue and ideas.
"How do I win over Elijah and ensure this deal?" I asked, searching for a strategy.

With a thoughtful sip of her cappuccino, Sacha leaned back, considering the challenge. "You need to appeal to his values while staying true to your strengths. Blend professionalism with a touch of charm. Show Elijah that success doesn't always mean compromising who you are. Play along"

I nodded, absorbing her advice. "And what about John? Any tips on how to make a lasting impression?"

Sacha's laughter bubbled through the air. "Darling, charm is your strongest weapon. Find common ground, share a genuine moment. Make him see you as more than a real estate dynamo—make him see you as Teresa."

As the conversation flowed, Sacha offered insights, and a sprinkle of humor, creating a roadmap for success that balanced.

In the following days, I applied Sacha's advice, creating a delicate dance of professionalism and charm. The office became a stage where every interaction with Elijah held the potential for strategic manipulation.

One evening, as the city lights glittered outside the office window, Elijah and I found ourselves working late. I took a cue from Sacha's playbook, engaging Elijah in a conversation.

"So, Elijah, what's the story behind those vintage books on your shelf?" I asked, a genuine smile playing on my lips.

He glanced at the books, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. "Oh, those are from my grandfather. He was a history enthusiast."

As we delved into a conversation about family and personal histories, the invisible barriers between us began to soften. It was a subtle victory, a testament to the power of Sacha's wisdom in navigating the balance of professional and personal dynamics.

The city's heartbeat echoed in the background as the plans discussed over coffee with Sacha played out in real time. The delicate dance of ambition, negotiation, and personal ties continued, and I found myself grateful for the advice of a friend who saw success as a path interlaced with dedication and charm.

In pursuit of a crucial deal, I found myself entangled in half-truths, carefully concealing details from Elijah, my unfitting partner. The skyline's dazzle concealed the shadows of my actions, all in the name of success, and each word and gesture aimed at leaving a lasting imprint in his memory.
I sought not only to secure the deal but to establish a connection that would echo beyond the confines of the business realm.

"Do you want to go to our colleagues party together tomorrow night?" I asked midst of our work.

Elijah nodded, without his eyes leaving the laptop.

"John will be there" I added, reminding him that we still had to ensure that we win over John to close this million dollar deal.

"I know" he whispered.

"And my plan still stands"

Elijah tensed and looked up, holding a firm look as he held our eyes. "How can I be of help, Teresa?"

My smile almost reached either end of my face and I laughed a quiet laugh, "What will bring a man to his knees?"
Sure, Sacha did teach me a few things. However, I never really got a mans point of view of anything. Elijah was my partner now, and he held answers that would make this a lot easier and quicker than I would anticipate.

"What he wants to hear," Elijah sat back in his chair, letting go of his laptop, "And maybe good sex"

"Show me" I whispered.