Frost and Petals: The CEO's Heartthaw

PART 6

As Arsalan stepped away from the dining room, he pressed the phone to his ear. The familiar voice of his manager greeted him immediately. "Hello, sir. Apologies for disturbing you at this hour," his manager said, his tone respectful but slightly nervous, knowing that Arsalan valued his personal time, especially when he was with family. Arsalan's brow furrowed slightly in response. Though exhausted from the long day, he maintained his composed, professional demeanor. "Hmm, it's alright. Now, please get to the point," Arsalan said, his voice low and direct, wanting to handle this quickly so he could return to dinner. "Sir, I just received the email from Acme Corporations. Their manager informed me that they are interested in collaborating with us," his manager explained, excitement creeping into his voice. Arsalan's tired expression shifted slightly as a spark of interest crossed his face. Acme Corporations was one of the most renowned and successful companies in the industry, and a potential collaboration with them was an opportunity that could bring massive benefits to both sides. Despite his fatigue, the news revitalized him. "That's fantastic news," Arsalan said, a hint of satisfaction in his voice. "So, when are we planning to hold the meeting? "His manager paused for a moment, then added, "Sir, actually, their CEO has expressed interest in meeting you personally before the official meeting. If you're available tomorrow, he would like to meet you at XX Café. "Arsalan considered the request for a moment. Despite his busy schedule, this meeting was crucial, and he knew he had to make time for it. "Alright," Arsalan said, his decision made. "Please inform him that I will meet him tomorrow." "Of course, sir. I'll let him know," the manager replied, sounding relieved that Arsalan had agreed so readily. With that, they ended the call. Arsalan pocketed his phone, his mind now racing with thoughts of the upcoming collaboration. The opportunity could propel his company even further, and while the weight of his responsibilities never left him, this potential deal added a new layer of motivation. As he walked back to the dining room, his face was once again a mask of composure, but deep down, the excitement of this business prospect simmered beneath the surface. He knew that tomorrow's meeting could be a defining moment for his company's future.

                        ...................

Later that evening, the CEO of Acme Corporation received a call from his manager. The call came with the kind of news he had been waiting for. The moment he answered, the manager spoke with respectful professionalism."Good evening, Sir. I hope you're doing well. I have an important update to share with you," the manager began, his tone serious yet carrying a sense of anticipation."Good evening. What's the matter?" the CEO asked, his voice polite yet focused, knowing this would be a critical update.The manager wasted no time getting to the point. "We received an email from Globex Corporation. Their CEO, Mr. Arsalan, is ready to meet you tomorrow at XX Café."A satisfied smile spread across the CEO's face. The news was exactly what he had hoped for. The chance to meet Arsalan personally before the official meeting was crucial for establishing a strong working relationship. Both companies had much to gain from this collaboration, and the CEO of Acme Corporation was well aware of the opportunities that lay ahead if things went well."That's excellent news. Thank you for letting me know," he responded, his tone reflecting the same excitement Arsalan had felt. Just like Arsalan, he recognized the immense potential this collaboration held for his company. If tomorrow's meeting went as expected, it could mark the beginning of a mutually beneficial partnership that would elevate Acme Corporation to new heights. As the call ended, the CEO of Acme Corporation couldn't help but feel a sense of optimism. The stakes were high, but the rewards were even higher. Tomorrow would be a defining moment for both companies.

                                       

The next morning, Arsalan awoke to the soft light of dawn streaming through his window, the start of another busy day ahead. After completing his morning routine with precision, he stepped into the shower, the cool water refreshing him and sharpening his focus. Emerging from the bathroom, he made his way to the closet, where he carefully selected his outfit for the day.Without hesitation, he reached for his signature style—an impeccably tailored black shirt, sleek black pants, and a matching coat. Each piece fit him perfectly, exuding an air of power and elegance. With smooth, practiced movements, Arsalan adjusted his tie and took one last glance at himself in the mirror. His handsome reflection stared back at him, his expression calm yet determined. His lips curved into a confident smile—he knew the day ahead would demand his full attention, but he was ready to meet it head-on. The meeting with the CEO of Acme Corporation was a crucial step for his company, and he had no intention of letting anything get in the way.As he stepped out of his room, his shoes clicking softly against the floor, he passed through the lounge where his mother sat. She immediately noticed him, fully dressed and prepared to leave for the day, as usual. Concern flickered across her face."Son, have your breakfast first," his mother called out gently. "You're working day and night, and you need to eat on time, my dear." Her voice carried both warmth and worry, knowing her son often skipped meals due to his demanding schedule.Arsalan paused for a brief moment, glancing at his mother. Despite her concern, he had no time for breakfast this morning. With a soft sigh, he offered her a polite but firm response."Mom, I have a meeting this morning, so I'll have breakfast with my client," he said, his tone calm but decisive.His mother watched him with a mixture of affection and worry as he turned and walked out the door. Arsalan's pace was steady, his mind already focused on the business at hand. Though he appreciated his mother's care, his priority now was the meeting—a crucial moment for his company's future. He stepped out into the morning air, ready to face the day, his charm and confidence guiding him forward.

       ...............

Noor hurriedly rushed around the house, trying to find her brother, Aliyan. She was already running late for work, and panic began to set in as she hadn't seen him anywhere. She had been depending on him to give her a ride to the office, but now, time was slipping away. Frustrated, she quickly turned to her father, who was sitting calmly reading the newspaper."Dad, where's Bhai? I'm already late, and he's nowhere to be seen!" she asked, her voice tinged with impatience as she stood by the door, ready to leave.Her father looked up from his paper and gave her a relaxed smile, unaware of her anxiety. "He left early today. Said he had some important work and didn't want to be late because of you," he replied casually.Noor's heart sank. Now she was truly in trouble. "What?! Now how will I go? I'm already very late!" Today, she's feeling a bit anxious, fearing that Mr. Arsalan might scold her again. Normally, he wouldn't be too harsh about her being late, but yesterday's incident has left her on edge, worried that it might happen again.Her mother, overhearing the commotion from the kitchen, stepped in with a sharp tone. "Try waking up earlier in the morning! You never get up on time, and then you complain that you're late. It's your own fault!" she scolded, her frustration with Noor's habit of oversleeping obvious.Noor, feeling guilty but also desperate, didn't know how to respond. But before she could say anything, her father, ever the protective and doting figure, quickly jumped to her defense. "Hey, don't scold my daughter!" he said playfully, setting down his paper. "Come, my kitty, I'll drop you," he offered, standing up and grabbing his car keys, his smile warm and reassuring.Noor's face lit up, her tension immediately melting away. She loved how her father always came to her rescue, no matter what. With a huge grin, she threw him a playful flying kiss. "Dad, you're the best!" she said with a wink, feeling relieved.As they made their way to the door, her mother could only roll her eyes at the scene. "Honestly, you spoil her too much," she muttered under her breath, shaking her head. But deep down, she couldn't help but smile at the bond between father and daughter. Noor, now feeling more relaxed, followed her father out the door, ready to face the day with a little extra help from her favorite person.