Deception

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

RYAN'S POV

We exited the elevator and Chloe led the way to Ellie's office. Each turn we made rubbed off a charming aura. But I expected nothing less from the top fashion brand in the county.

Chloe lightly knocked on a door and opened it, gesturing for me to come in. The office screamed of elegance, which was boldly stated by the interior color combination of blue and white. Ellie was seated behind her desk, dealing with dozens of papers in front of her, but looked up immediately we entered. I scanned her desk, and my eyes landed on a bouquet of flowers. My lips curled up when I realized that it was the bouquet I had given her last night.

" You're punctual. I like that." She said, staring directly at me.

" It's a habit." I said with a smile. She returned the smile with a much more brighter one, and I couldn't help but brighten mine. I was really enjoying this, but not until Chloe cleared her throat.

" Err... Sorry to spoil the moment but we do have a meeting in twenty minutes CEO Brown. " She said and Ellie nodded in affirmation. " So, quickly do whatever you want to do and come there. James Wells is there already."

" Alright. We will." Ellie replied and I somehow lost account of who the actual boss was here.

" I'll leave you two now, and don't do anything out of bounds."

Ellie stood up and walked towards Chloe who subconsciously backed away. I smiled lightly, deeply understanding what she meant.

" Okay, okay bye." Chloe said and ran out of the room.

" Are you two always like that?" I asked with a chuckle.

" Yes, always. And this was just a tiny bit of it." She said smiling. " Please have a seat."

I nodded and we headed to her desk. I settled down and my eyes settled on the flowers again.

" You're quite observant." She said, following my gaze.

" I am." I said, my approval obvious.

" Okay then. Let's move to business." She said, leaning on the desk.

" Sure." I said and brought out a file from my suitcase, handing it to her. " W&E is already known in the jewelry industry for having deep roots in traditional jewel making. But I believe that the traditional design can be merged with Diamond Glow's modern luxury. This collaboration could bridge the past and present, and bring forth timeless pieces."

She listened attentively, nodding at intervals. When I finished explaining, she took a last glance at the file and kept it aside, returning her gaze to me.

" This is solid." She admitted. " And I see the potential in combining classical and contemporary styles. Consider it accepted."

I exhaled slightly, not realizing that I had been holding my breath. " I'm glad to hear that. Thank you, CEO Brown. "

She stood up and extended a hand and I gladly shook it. " You're welcome." She said. " Let's head to the conference room. They'll be waiting."

" Sure." And with that, we headed to the conference room.

Inside, staff members and executives, including Chloe, were already settled in their seats. I spotted James seated as well, his arms crossed with an unreadable expression on his face. Once he noticed us, he stood up and walked over.

" Ellie, nice to meet you again." He said with a fake smile that had me rolling my eyes internally.

" Same here, Mr Wells. And please, let's stick with the professional tone, okay?" Ellie replied and I fought myself hard not to laugh. I glanced at Chloe, who was having more problems doing so.