Rivals Redemption

chapter 83 : A step closer

Rowan Cortez

The next day at the office, I arrived feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. I knew today would be different, especially after last night's dinner and the conversation I'd overheard between Tina and her parents. As I settled into my cubicle, I couldn't shake the feeling that something significant was about to happen.

Around mid-morning, Mr. Victor Diaz approached my desk. His demeanor was serious, and I could feel the tension in the air. "Cortez," he said, his voice steady. "We need to talk."

I stood up, my heart racing slightly. "Of course, Mr. Diaz. What's on your mind?"

"Let's take a walk," he suggested, gesturing toward the hallway. I nodded and followed him, my stomach churning with anticipation. This could go either way.

We walked in silence for a moment until we reached a small conference room. Victor pushed the door open and stepped inside, motioning for me to join him. Once we were settled, he turned to me, his expression unreadable.

"I've been thinking a lot about you and Tina," he began, crossing his arms. "I want to hear it from you-why do you love her?"

The question caught me off guard. I had rehearsed my responses in my head, but I didn't expect to be put on the spot like this. Still, I took a deep breath, knowing this was my chance to lay it all out for him.

"Mr. Diaz, I love Tina because she's the most incredible person I've ever met," I started, feeling the warmth of my emotions bubbling up. "She's smart, driven, and fiercely independent. Every moment I spend with her feels right, like I'm finally home. She makes me want to be a better person, and I can't imagine my life without her."

I paused for a moment, gauging his reaction. He was listening intently, his brows slightly furrowed. I continued, my voice gaining strength. "Tina has this way of lighting up a room, and her laughter is contagious. She's been through a lot, but she always finds a way to push through with grace and strength. I admire that about her."

Victor's expression softened just a fraction, but I could tell he was still guarded. "Go on," he urged, leaning forward slightly.

I pressed on, pouring my heart out. "I love her kindness and how she treats everyone with respect, no matter their status. She's passionate about her career and her dreams, and I want to support her in every way I can. I know I'm not perfect, and I'll make mistakes, but I promise to be there for her, through thick and thin."

As I spoke, I could see a flicker of something in Victor's eyes-a glimmer of understanding, perhaps even acceptance. I finished, my chest heaving slightly from the intensity of my words. "Tina deserves the world, and I want to give that to her. I love her more than I can express."

There was a moment of silence as Victor processed my confession. I could feel the weight of his scrutiny, and I held my breath, unsure of how he would respond. Finally, he nodded slowly, his arms dropping to his sides.

"You're not just some random guy trying to win my daughter's heart," he said, his voice low and serious. "You genuinely care for her, and I can see that. I appreciate you being honest with me."

"Thank you, sir," I replied, relief flooding through me. "I want to make her happy."

"Good," he said, his tone shifting slightly. "But understand this: if you ever break her heart..." He paused, his gaze hardening. "I will break your face. I'm serious about that."

I swallowed hard, feeling the intensity of his words. "Understood, Mr. Diaz. I would never hurt Tina. I'll do everything I can to protect her."

Victor studied me for a moment longer, then nodded, seemingly satisfied. "All right then. Just know that while I might not be fully on board yet, I'm getting there. Keep proving yourself, and maybe we can find some common ground."

With that, he turned and left the conference room, leaving me standing there with a mix of relief and anticipation. It was a significant step forward, and I couldn't help but feel hopeful. Victor might not have given me his full approval yet, but I could sense that I had earned some respect.

As I returned to my desk, my mind raced with thoughts of Tina and how I would tell her about this conversation. She needed to know that her father was starting to come around. I couldn't wait to see the smile on her face when I shared the news with her. Things were finally looking up.