Broken

Chapter 10: Between legacy and temptation

Fatima stepped out of the building, her heels clicking against the pavement. Her driver stood by the car, already holding the door open for her. She nodded in acknowledgment, handing her bag to him as he placed it inside the vehicle.

Just as she was about to enter the car, she heard someone call her name. "Fatima," a familiar voice called out. She turned to see Zac jogging towards her, his expression a mix of determination and concern.

"Zachary," she greeted him coolly, her tone professional. Fatima's eyes met his, guarded but curious about what he had to say. The unexpected encounter felt like an intrusion into the controlled world she desperately tried to maintain, especially with the recent turmoil in her life. Zac caught his breath and looked at her with a seriousness that made her pause.

Zac approached Fatima, trying to gauge her reaction. He had come to understand the woman in front of him was not one to be easily read or manipulated. They stood facing each other, a quiet tension in the air.

"Fatima, I wanted to ask you something," Zac started, his voice steady but curious. She raised an eyebrow, gesturing for him to continue.

"If my father decides to sell Taylor Heights... what's in it for him?" he asked, his gaze unwavering.

Fatima's expression remained neutral, though a flicker of something unreadable crossed her eyes. She took a moment before responding, considering her words carefully. "Zachary, your father stands to gain a substantial amount from the sale. It's a prime location, and the offer we're putting on the table is more than generous. He could use that money to invest in new ventures or secure a comfortable future. My company doesn't just buy property; we make sure that everyone involved benefits."

Zac nodded slowly, processing her response. "And you? What do you gain from this?" he asked, a hint of skepticism in his tone.

Fatima met his gaze, her expression firm. "For me, it's about progress and expansion. This project is part of a vision, a plan to create something new and valuable. It's not just about the money, Zac. It's about building something that leaves a mark, something meaningful."

There was a pause, and Zac seemed to weigh her words. "You know, my father is not just selling a building; it's his legacy. It's where we grew up, where our family made memories. It's not an easy decision for him," he said, a touch of emotion in his voice.

Fatima softened slightly, nodding in understanding. "I get that. And believe me, I don't take it lightly. But sometimes, to move forward, we have to let go of the past. If he decides to sell, I'll make sure he feels secure in his choice."

Zac looked at her, still cautious but somewhat reassured. "Alright," he finally said, "I'll talk to him."

Fatima nodded, and they stood there for a moment, an unspoken understanding passing between them. She glanced at her watch and then back at Zac. "I have to go. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out."

"Of course," Zac replied. He stepped back, allowing her to enter the car.

Fatima had just settled into the back seat of the car, the driver closing the door behind her. As the car started to pull away, she leaned forward slightly, tapping the glass to get the driver's attention. "Wait," she said, her voice firm but calm. The car stopped, and Fatima quickly rolled down her window.

"Zac!" she called out, her tone insistent. Zac, who had started to turn away, stopped in his tracks and faced her again, his brow arched in curiosity.

Fatima reached into her purse and pulled out a sleek business card. She extended it towards him, her eyes meeting his with a hint of something unreadable. "Here," she said, offering the card. "In case you have more questions or... anything else."