"Sir, here's your schedule... you have the postponed meeting and... umm..." Crystal hesitated, her voice trailing off as she braced herself for his reaction.
"And what, Crystal?" Ashter asked, sensing her unease.
"And a dinner invitation from Mr. Chairman," she finally said, the words coming out in a rush.
Ashter sighed heavily.
"I'm sorry to say this, but maybe you should go. You turned down the last invitation, this time it might be important," Crystal suggested cautiously.
Just then, Ian burst into the room, looking slightly terrified. "Miss Lily is here. I tried to stop her, but she's already in your office," he reported, his voice laced with urgency.
Crystal, unaware of the full situation, glanced into the office and saw a woman in her mid-20s, elegant and poised in a sleek black dress, sitting at Ashter's desk.
"Is she his girlfriend?" Crystal asked Ian, a hint of jealousy creeping into her tone.
"No, but his father wants him to marry her. Maybe that's why he insisted on Ashter showing up for dinner," Ian explained, with a low voice.
"So, they don't want to marry each other... but look at her. She's so beautiful, and they look so good together, don't they?" Crystal said though her words were filled with an uneasy bitterness.
Meanwhile, inside the office, Lily looked furious.
"Miss Lily, calm down. We can't get married just because of some business deal, and we don't even know each other well. You know what I mean," Ashter said, his frustration evident.
"Then let's get to know each other tonight," Lily said, stepping toward him with a determined look.
Ashter immediately stepped back, raising his hands defensively. "Miss Lily, this isn't what I meant," he said, running a hand through his hair, he clearly looked angry.
Lily's face twisted in anger at his reaction. Without thinking, she grabbed a glass from the table and threw it at him before storming out of the office.
Crystal had witnessed everything. Heart pounding, she rushed into his office with a first aid kit in hand.
"Are... are you okay, sir? Your hand is bleeding," she stammered, her voice was filled with worry.
"Get out. I need a moment alone," Ashter said, his tone harsh and edged with anger.
"But your hand-" Crystal began, concern lacing her voice.
Before she could finish, Ashter snapped, "GET OUT!"
Crystal flinched, her heart sinking as she quietly left the office, closing the door behind her.
•••
YOU ARE READING
Crystal Hearts
RomansaCrystal, a 21-year-old girl, grew up in an abusive family, and now she struggles with PTSD. Then there's Ashter, a guy who despises people with dual personalities because he believes anyone who cares for him is only interested in his wealth. But as...
