Broken

Chapter 4: Beneath the glamour

A few days later, Zac stepped into the lobby of the apartment complex, adjusting the cuffs of his crisp shirt. He checked the time on his wristwatch, noting he was right on schedule. Just as he was about to leave, a familiar voice caught his attention.

"Leaving already?"

He looked up and smiled. It was Diana, standing there with her casual, slight tomboyish style. She was dressed in jeans and a simple T-shirt, her dark skin glowing in the evening light.

"Yeah, I've got some business to handle," Zac replied, nodding his head.

"Okay," Diana nodded back, a warm smile on her face. "Have a good day at work."

"Thanks, you too," Zac replied, giving her a friendly wave as he headed out.

His destination was a charity gala—a who's who of the city's elite. The event was a gathering of influential figures, and Zac had been invited through his best friend Tony, who worked as an assistant to one of the judges Fatima was close to. Unbeknownst to Fatima, Tony and Zac were good friends, and Zac knew this connection could potentially provide him with valuable insights.

Zac arrived at the grand venue, an opulent ballroom filled with the city's most prominent figures. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the elegantly dressed guests. The sound of soft classical music played in the background, adding to the sophisticated atmosphere. Zac adjusted his tie, feeling confident in his sharp black tuxedo, and made his way inside.

At the entrance, Tony greeted him with a wide grin. "Hey, man, glad you could make it," Tony said, clasping Zac's shoulder. "This is quite the shindig, huh?"

"Yeah, definitely," Zac replied, scanning the room. His gaze fell on a striking figure across the ballroom, and his breath caught in his throat. There, in a silk backless lilac dress that hugged her curves and exuded power and confidence, was Fatima Wilson. She looked stunning, her presence commanding the attention of everyone around her. The dress shimmered as she moved, and her confident demeanor only added to her allure.

Fatima smiled at someone who approached her, engaging in a lively conversation. Zac couldn't take his eyes off her. Her poise and the way she effortlessly navigated the room made her stand out even more. There was an undeniable magnetism about her, and Zac found himself drawn to it.

Tony noticed Zac's gaze and chuckled. "Oh, and that is—"

"Fatima Wilson," Zac finished for him, his voice laced with a mix of admiration and intrigue. "We've met. She's something, alright."

Tony raised an eyebrow, sensing the underlying tension. "You sure about that? She doesn't seem like the type to enjoy surprises."

"Trust me," Zac said, flashing a confident smile. "I think I'll go say hi."

Before Tony could protest, Zac was already making his way toward Fatima. As he approached, Fatima turned and immediately locked eyes with him. A look of mild annoyance flashed across her face, quickly replaced by her usual composed expression.

"We meet again," Zac said with a charming smile.

Fatima raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "I guess," she replied, her voice cool and detached. She downed the champagne in her hand, her eyes never leaving Zac's.

Zac tilted his head, studying her for a moment. "You seem surprised to see me."

"Not surprised," Fatima corrected, setting the empty glass on a passing tray. "More like... curious why you're here."

Zac smirked, leaning in slightly. "Can't a guy enjoy a night out among the city's elite?"

Fatima's lips curled into a faint, knowing smile. "I suppose," she said, her tone nonchalant. "But something tells me you're not here just for the company."