5

6 2 2
                                    

The dining room was illuminated by a crystal chandelier that shone softly over the long table, which was laden with fine dishes

Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.

The dining room was illuminated by a crystal chandelier that shone softly over the long table, which was laden with fine dishes. The delicate porcelain and polished silverware reflected the sophisticated ambiance, typical of a dinner between the Fontaine and Knight families. The aromas of the meal filled the air as everyone began to settle in.

I sat next to Dominique, while my parents were at the head of the table, chatting animatedly with Thomas and Emma. Damon, as usual, was next to his parents, quiet and observant.

My father was a successful businessman with a commanding presence and a reputation admired in various business circles. He ran a chain of luxury hotels spread across several major cities worldwide, and he always enjoyed discussing his new projects with those who understood the weight and responsibility of his decisions.

On the opposite side of the table, Thomas Knight was no different. He managed a renowned investment firm, known for its strategic acquisitions and high-impact mergers in the financial sector. Both were at the top of their respective worlds, surrounded by success, power, and influence. Yet, the conversation between them always flowed smoothly, a blend of mutual respect and shared experience.

"So, Thomas," my father began, leaning slightly forward with his usual cordial tone. "How's business? The last time we spoke, you were dealing with a new expansion. Something about the purchase of a major property in Los Angeles, wasn't it?"

Thomas nodded, his expression unreadable, but his eyes gleamed with the satisfaction of a man used to dealing with significant risks. He was reserved, like Damon, but when it came to work, he allowed a glimpse of his pride. "Yes," he responded in his deep, controlled voice. "We're almost finalizing the negotiations. It's a promising real estate complex, and I believe it will be an important milestone for our firm. We're fine-tuning the final contracts."

My father nodded, understanding the details involved. "That sounds good. I've been through something similar when we expanded the hotel chain into Europe. The market is always unpredictable, but the right opportunities can really change everything. And how about the mergers side? I heard that your company is handling one of the biggest acquisitions in recent years."

Thomas smiled slightly, a rare gesture but one that indicated he was confident. "We're negotiating with a large hospital chain. It's a challenge, but the numbers look good, and if everything goes as planned, it will be a significant move in the healthcare sector."

As they exchanged details about the complexities of business—deadlines, contracts, risks, and market forecasts—I watched the conversation almost distantly. These were the dynamics I had grown up with. Business always seemed to be part of our meals, as if work was inevitably intertwined with our lives.

Beside me, Dom sighed discreetly, as if he wanted to be anywhere but here. Bernard, sitting a little further along, was paying occasional attention, but even he seemed to be waiting for a change of topic.

His AngelWhere stories live. Discover now