A Thousand Ways To Say I Love You

CHAPTER XXXVIII

Matteo sat across from Mrs. Bala, the CEO of BK.Co, his gaze focused and unwavering. The room felt tense, thick with the weight of high-stakes negotiation. This was a critical moment for Matteo; securing the deal with BK.Co would further solidify his empire, and he couldn't afford to lose it.

Mrs. Bala, an elegant woman with sharp eyes, looked between Matteo and the other man seated across from her: Carter D’Angelo. The tension between the two men was palpable. Both were powerful in their own right, but their methods couldn't have been more different.

Carter leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing on his lips. He appeared relaxed, almost too relaxed, as if the outcome of this meeting didn’t concern him. But Matteo knew better—Carter was playing a psychological game, and Matteo was right in the middle of it.

"Mrs. Bala," Matteo began, his voice smooth and confident, "I understand the significance of your decision today. BK.Co is a valuable partner, and I believe that together, we can expand its reach even further. My company has the infrastructure, the network, and the expertise to elevate BK.Co to new heights."

Mrs. Bala nodded thoughtfully, but before she could respond, Carter chimed in.

"Matteo makes some good points," Carter said casually, adjusting his cufflinks, "but let’s be real here, Mrs. Bala. You need more than just promises of growth. You need stability and trust. My company has a longstanding reputation for delivering results. We don’t just promise expansion; we execute it flawlessly."

Matteo clenched his jaw, but kept his composure. He had anticipated Carter's move—making it sound like his company was the safer bet. But Matteo wasn’t here to lose.

"Stability is crucial, yes," Matteo agreed, his voice calm yet firm, "but innovation drives success. We have the vision and the capacity to take risks, and when we win, the rewards are exponential. My company doesn't just offer a future for BK.Co, it guarantees it."

Mrs. Bala sat back in her chair, observing the two men. Both were clearly capable, but she knew this decision would shape the future of her company for years to come.

Carter’s eyes narrowed slightly, sensing Matteo’s determination. He leaned forward, this time dropping the casual demeanor. "Let's cut to the chase. BK.Co needs a partner who understands its market, who can provide not just financial backing, but strategic growth. My company’s resources are unmatched, and we’ve already mapped out a plan that will take BK.Co global within the next five years."

Matteo glanced at Carter, knowing full well what he was doing—trying to box him into a corner. But Matteo wasn't one to fold under pressure.

"I’ve worked in markets far more volatile than this," Matteo said, turning his gaze to Mrs. Bala. "My team and I have navigated through challenges that would cripple most companies, and yet, we’ve come out stronger every time. BK.Co doesn’t just need a partner who can promise stability; it needs one who can lead it into uncharted territory and dominate. That’s what I’m offering."

The room fell silent as Mrs. Bala took in both pitches. Matteo and Carter exchanged a glance, the rivalry between them intensifying with each passing second. For Matteo, this was more than just a business deal—this was personal. He couldn’t let Carter win, not now, not ever.

Mrs. Bala finally broke the silence. "Gentlemen, you both make compelling arguments, and I appreciate your interest in BK.Co. I will be making my decision soon, but I need some time to consider both offers."

Matteo nodded, standing up to shake her hand. "Thank you for your time, Mrs. Bala. I look forward to your decision." As both man did.

After Mrs. Bala left the room, the tension between Matteo and Carter became palpable. The once professional atmosphere quickly shifted as Carter leaned back in his chair, an amused grin spreading across his face.

"Well, Matteo, now that we’ve got the business out of the way," Carter began, his tone dripping with arrogance, "I think it’s time we talk about something… more personal."

Matteo didn’t respond immediately. He could already sense where this was going. His fists clenched beneath the table as he maintained his cold, composed exterior.

Carter’s grin widened. "You know, I ran into Isabella recently. I’m sure you know her, don’t you? Quite the reunion we’ve been having. I have to say, she’s still as beautiful as ever."

Matteo’s jaw tightened, but he kept his emotions in check, refusing to give Carter the reaction he was looking for.

Carter continued, enjoying every second of Matteo’s silence. "We’ve had a few nice lunch, catching up on old times. I forgot how much fun we had in med school. Such a shame I didn’t stick around for longer, but life has a funny way of bringing people back together, don’t you think?"

Matteo finally spoke, his voice low and steady, but laced with cold fury. "What are you trying to say, Carter?"

Carter chuckled, leaning forward. "Oh, come on, Matteo. You’re a smart man. I don’t need to spell it out for you. I just find it fascinating how fate works. While you're out here chasing deals, your girl’s enjoying some quality time with an old friend. I’d hate for her to feel... neglected."

Matteo’s blood boiled, but he remained calm, knowing Carter was baiting him. He wouldn’t let this man get under his skin, not when it came to Isabella.

"Isabella isn’t part of this," Matteo said, his voice sharp. "Keep her out of your games, Carter."

Carter laughed, clearly enjoying the tension he was creating. "Games? Oh no, Matteo, I’m not playing games. I’m just reminding you that while you’re focused on business, some things—some people—might slip through your fingers."

Matteo stood up, his eyes narrowing. "This isn’t over, Carter. But you’d be wise to leave Isabella out of it."

Carter’s smirk faded slightly as Matteo’s intense gaze locked onto him. For a moment, Carter seemed to recognize the dangerous line he was walking, but his arrogance kept him from backing down.

"Careful, Matteo," Carter said, his voice low. "You don’t want to lose control. It’s not good for business."

Without another word, Matteo turned and left the room, his anger simmering just beneath the surface. As he stepped outside, he pulled out his phone and texted his men: "Watch Carter. He’s up to something. And keep Isabella safe. I don’t care what it takes."

Carter had made it personal, and Matteo wasn’t going to let him win.