Struggle For Power [✓]

Chapter 12

SELENA POV

I watched as Justin descended to his room from the bottom of the stairwell, still mentally picturing that cold state he gave me so perfectly. That moment from this morning, a moment I haven't stopped thinking about slipped through my fingers so effortlessly. It was replaced with a look full of hatred, full of anger and it was all because of me.

Michael placed his hand on my side and escorted us away and into the warmth of the living area, where the small fire was burning away. Crackling and spitting was the only thing that made me feel a sense of reassurance.

"Babe, I don't know what to do." Michael breathes. His back was facing me as he filled up his whiskey glass from the small bar situated in the corner. As soon as it was filled, it then filled him up as a replacement.

"What do you mean?" I probably knew the answer, but his mind has been running too many circles to have a true indication.

"This entire ordeal with Justin and the company. It just feels like I am running in the same destructive circle and someone or something is going entirely wrong. I just don't have a resolution to any problems."

"I know the solution, give him the company." I crossed my arms. I didn't leave hesitation or any weakness. My upcoming position was interfering with a father and son. The relationship between a father and his child is something that should never be in a breaking point. I was currently that breaking point. I couldn't bear to rid something I wish I had before.

"I can't."

"Why not? Justin gets what he's clearly desired for a long time and the company is in capable hands. To me, it's a win-win situation for multiple reasons." I radiated confidence. I don't think I had been so sure of something.

"I have promised you that position."

"And I'm saying let him have it instead."

"I am not giving away something I promised you, love."

"So you didn't say to Justin that he would have the company before? You didn't promise him either?." I argued back with a cold tone, one I rarely used.

Michael doesn't say anything but turns his head over his shoulder just to glimpse at me. I don't do anything in response, only staring back with a blank expression. He turns back around after a few seconds and starts fiddling with whatever was in front of him, sounds like a glass object clashing against another. His body blocked his actions entirely.

"That's different." He seethes. Even from behind, I felt insecure about his reaction.

"But you still promised him that decision, didn't you?" I raise my voice at him as I take several steps forward, fuelling on mild anger. My arm even raised and pointed upstairs, signalling who I was talking about, not like it wasn't evident. I was definitely seeking an argument I have no right in.

"I did." His head tilted down with shame. Suddenly that burst of anger didn't matter. But he turned around before that shame swallowed him up and paced towards me, holding my hands softly. His touch was always gentle. "The problem is he is so young and has so much to learn an-."

"And I haven't?" I pulled my hands away from his grasp. "I've had my share of working in businesses Michael, but the responsibilities of being in charge is still foreign to me. I wouldn't even know where to begin." I suddenly found myself in a frenzy of panic. This really was the first time thinking deeply into this and it was scaring me.

"In this moment of time, he isn't ready. His behaviour alone is proof he is too immature to take on a company. If you decide to hand it to him when you want to retire your position then that's ultimately your call but right now it's my call and I want you, babe." His hands were now cupping my face as he stares deeply in my eyes. He leaves a tender kiss on my lips.