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Chapter 2~ Anthony Cruz

I woke up to my alarm and remembered I had a meeting with Linea today to look at a vacation home to buy. My father insisted it had to be close to the beach.

I walked to the bathroom to take a shower. My thoughts were racing about her, and I wasn't sure why. I didn't even know her.

After I got out, I put on my best suit. All black, with no tie, and the top two buttons unbuttoned. I had an hour before meeting her.

After brushing my teeth and using some mouthwash spray, I put on cologne and deodorant and went for breakfast. When I finished, I stepped outside to meet my limo, which would take me to Linea's office building by the beach.

I instructed my bodyguards to wait in the limo so they wouldn't intimidate her. As I walked into the building, I asked for directions to her office and took the elevator to the top floor.

I walked to the end of the hall and knocked on the door with her name on it. I heard some rustling inside and her faint voice saying, "Come in."

I entered and saw her sitting at her desk in a black dress skirt, white blouse, black dress jacket, and heels.

"Hello, Mr. Cruz. What can I do for you today? Are there any specific properties you're looking at, or would you like some recommendations and we can visit them today?" she said with enthusiasm but softly at the same time. I sat down in the chair in front of her desk.

"I looked at a few, but they didn't exactly meet my family's standards. What do you recommend?" I asked, flashing a smile.

"Well, with price not being an issue here..." she said, putting a few brochures on the desk. "I have selected some of the finest properties that are close to the beach. They all have excellent views and luxurious amenities."

I glanced through the brochures. Each property looked more stunning than the last. "These look promising. Let's start with the one closest to the beach."

"Great choice," she said, standing up and grabbing her keys. "Shall we?"

As we walked out of her office, I couldn't help but notice how professional yet approachable she was. We got into my limo, and as we drove to the first property, I found myself stealing glances at her, wondering more about the woman behind the professional facade.

---

We arrived at the first property, and I was immediately struck by the breathtaking view of the ocean. Linea led the way, her heels clicking softly on the pathway as we approached the front door.

"This house was built just last year," she explained, unlocking the door and pushing it open to reveal a grand foyer. "It has five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and a private pool overlooking the beach."

I followed her inside, taking in the high ceilings and modern design. "It's impressive," I said, genuinely impressed.

She smiled, clearly pleased with my reaction. "Let me show you the kitchen. It's one of my favorite parts of the house."

As we walked through the spacious living room, I couldn't help but admire the way the sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm glow on everything it touched. The kitchen was just as stunning, with state-of-the-art appliances and a large island perfect for entertaining.

Linea gestured toward the sliding glass doors that led to the patio. "And out here, you have your own private oasis. The pool is heated, and there's even a built-in barbecue for those beachside cookouts."

I stepped outside, feeling the cool breeze from the ocean. "This place is incredible," I admitted, turning to look at her. "You have great taste."

She blushed slightly, a hint of pride in her eyes. "Thank you, Mr. Cruz. I'm glad you like it. There are a few more properties we can look at, but I have a feeling this one might be a favorite."

I nodded, already imagining my family enjoying this beautiful home. "You know what? I think this is the one. Let's move forward with it."

Linea's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That's wonderful! I'll get the paperwork started right away. But first, how about we celebrate? There's a great little bar down the street. Would you like to join me for a drink?"

I smiled, feeling a sense of relief and anticipation. "That sounds perfect. Lead the way."

We left the house and walked to the nearby bar, the sound of waves crashing in the distance. The bar was cozy and inviting, with dim lighting and a relaxed atmosphere. We found a table near the window, and Linea ordered us both a drink.

"To new beginnings," she said, raising her glass.

"To new beginnings," I echoed, clinking my glass with hers. As we chatted and laughed, I couldn't help but feel that this was the start of something truly special.