Only for You

31: Just Business, Right?

The launch event for Axiom Sports' new partnership with football star Zachary Taylor was in full swing. The venue was electric, cameras flashing nonstop as reporters, fans, and industry insiders eagerly waited for the man of the hour.

The sleek black Maybach rolls up to the carpet, and as soon as the door opens, all eyes are on him. Zac steps out with effortless confidence, adjusting the lapels of his custom-tailored suit, his sharp features illuminated by the flashing lights. His signature confident eyes scan the crowd as whispers and admiration ripple through the journalists and guests.

He moves with purpose, exuding a natural command over the space. But then—his gaze lands on her.

Fatima.

She's standing just off to the side, her posture poised yet relaxed, watching him with a subtle but knowing smile. Their eyes lock, and for a fleeting moment, everything else fades. His lips twitch into a small, private smile before he quickly schools his expression, remembering where they are. Professional.

Zac makes his way down the red carpet, pausing to pose for the cameras. He angles his body just right, letting them capture every detail of his look—one that had Fatima's artistic touch all over it.

A journalist steps forward, mic in hand. "Zachary! Huge night for you, how does it feel to be the new face of Axiom Sports Marketing?"

He nods, his easy smile never faltering. "It's an honor, man. Axiom is doing something special, and I'm excited to be a part of it. Their vision aligns with everything I believe in when it comes to the game and the lifestyle around it."

The journalist grins, following up. "And I have to ask—you're looking sharp tonight. Who are you wearing?"

Zac smirks, already knowing his answer would stir conversation. "I'm wearing a limited edition piece from the amazing and talented Fatima Wilson herself. She styled me for this event. She's also Axiom's new designer."

He tilts his head toward the side of the carpet, subtly pointing in her direction.

Fatima, standing poised in her own flawless piece, meets the attention with effortless grace. The cameras instantly swing to her, snapping away as murmurs fill the air.

The journalist raises a brow. "Fatima Wilson? Now that's a collaboration we didn't see coming!"

Zac simply chuckles, giving nothing away. "Yeah, she's incredible at what she does. This won't be the last time you see me in her designs."

And with that, he moves on, but not before sneaking one last glance at Fatima. Only she would catch it—the small, knowing flicker in his eyes that spoke volumes.

Fatima hides the blush creeping onto her cheeks, turning swiftly on her heels and heading inside before anyone catches on. She knew this would happen—Zac praising her in public, bringing attention to her work—but hearing him say her name with so much confidence, so much pride, still caught her off guard.

Meanwhile, outside, Zac continues making his rounds, answering a few more questions and posing for more pictures. His name is already trending, and the buzz around his look—and Fatima's design—is gaining momentum by the second.

After wrapping up the last interview, he finally steps inside the venue, where the energy is just as electric as outside. The space is sleek and modern, a perfect backdrop for Axiom's big night.

As soon as he enters, two familiar faces approach him.

Mariah and Eugene.

Mariah, ever poised, is dressed in a tailored jumpsuit that screams business and style. She's clutching her phone, no doubt already tracking social media reactions to the event. Beside her, Eugene, Zac's manager, is his usual composed self, dressed sharply but with an edge that sets him apart from the corporate crowd.