English Version: Dandelions in the Wind

21

Dionne finally regained her composure after a series of consecutive swallows. She couldn't help but feel a rush of nerves as she reached for the bottled water, her hands trembling slightly as she opened it and took a long sip, hoping it would calm her nerves. Afterward, she remained gazing at Charlotte, still confused about what was happening.

"We're glad you're here, Miss Del Pierro," Miranda began with a warm and welcoming tone. "May I introduce to you, Mr. Ramon Yulo as the resident lawyer of Flavell Museum." With a graceful gesture, Miranda directed everyone's attention towards the lawyer. "Nice to meet you, Attorney Yulo." Charlotte's greeting was polite, and her handshake was firm and confident.

Ramon Yulo, who had seemed on the brink of falling asleep from boredom just moments ago, suddenly came to life. His eyes widened with excitement, and he eagerly reached for Charlotte's hand. "It's an honor to meet you, Miss Del Pierro," he exclaimed, his voice full of admiration. "I heard a lot of great things about you." Rising from his seat, Ramon Yulo stood up energetically, his smile infectious. "I was there when you won the case against Morten Industry; I'm so impressed. You're a brilliant lawyer!" The words spilled out of him, his enthusiasm discernible as he shook Charlotte's hand vigorously.

Miranda chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "I guess you have a fan. Miss Del Pierro," she remarked when she glanced between Charlotte and Ramon Yulo, who nodded eagerly in agreement. "She's a brilliant lawyer. I wish she were my daughter." Ramon Yulo continued to smile warmly, releasing Charlotte's hand.

"I'd like you to meet our director, Miss Dionne Lucas," Miranda continued, turning her attention towards Dionne. Dionne felt her cheeks warm as she stood up, her heart pounding in her chest as she met Charlotte's gaze. "Nice to meet you, Miss Lucas," Charlotte greeted professionally, her tone neutral as she extended her hand. Nervously, Dionne reached out to shake it, her hand trembling slightly with nerves. "I-it's good to see you, Char—-uhm...Miss Del Pierro," she stammered, her tongue almost slipping as she struggled to find the right words. Feeling the warmth of Charlotte's hand against hers, Dionne quickly let go, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

"So, shall we start," Miranda interjected, bringing the attention back to the matter as she took her seat again.

Dionne leaned back in her seat, the cushion providing a small comfort as she grappled with her swirling thoughts about Charlotte's unexpected presence. "If I may ask, where's Attorney Castelo?" Her curiosity got the better of her by asking the question.

"I hired Charlotte's law firm before working here in Flavell. Attorney Castelo is one of her lawyers," Gwynett explained, turning to Charlotte with a warm smile that hinted at their familiarity.

"Oh, okay," Dionne replied softly, her gaze flickering towards Charlotte before quickly darting away.

Miranda cleared her throat, signaling the beginning of the discussion. "We are gathered here because you have significantly revised the contract," she stated, her tone measured yet firm. Your latest installation exceeded the budget and deviated from the agreed theme. This has put the museum in a difficult position, both financially and reputationally," she elaborated, her eyes shifting to Gwynett as she spoke.

Gwynett nodded in understanding, her expression thoughtful. "With all due respect, the essence of art is to evoke emotion and provoke thought. The changes I made were necessary to convey the message accurately," she defended. Leaning back in her chair, she reached for the papers before her, her fingers tracing the edges thoughtfully. "I was under the impression that this museum valued artistic freedom."

As the conversation continued, Dionne discreetly observed Charlotte, taking in the sight of her in a business suit for the first time. Her white long sleeves were perfectly tailored, complementing the gray vest and black blazer she wore with effortless elegance. Charlotte exuded confidence, her posture impeccable, and her blonde hair neatly tied back in a sophisticated bun. Marcus had often mentioned Charlotte's prowess as a lawyer, and as Dionne watched her now, she couldn't help but see the strength and determination that seemed to radiate from her. A woman in a power suit who can kick your ass. A lawyer and a ballerina, what a deadly combination. Very sexy, Dionne couldn't resist a small smile, feeling a flutter of admiration. She took a deep breath, refocusing her attention on the task at hand, her cheeks flushing slightly as she studied the papers before her.