HATRED (series 2#)

Chapter 6

We entered the main section, and I noticed two well-built men in black fitted suits sitting opposite the chairs. Suddenly, my heart started beating fast, and I felt a sense of anticipation.

"Are you alright?" Mark asked, concerned.

"Just a little bit nervous, but I'll be alright," I replied.

"Take a deep breath in and out. It'll help you relax, I promise," Mark suggested.

I followed his advice, and within a minute, I felt much better. Mark cleared his throat, and both men turned their attention towards us. Feeling uncomfortable, I lowered my gaze, aware that I was the only woman in the room.

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Ryan," Mark greeted with enthusiasm. "Your accomplishments at such a young age are something to be proud of. I'm really glad to have the opportunity to work with you."

"I'm also happy to work with you, Mr. Fortes," Mr. Ryan responded. "With our youth and success, we have the power to make a positive impact on the world. I hope everything works out well for both of us."

And then, I heard that voice. It was so familiar. My heart skipped a beat as I remembered the name my boss had mentioned earlier - 'Ryan.' I looked up, and there he was, my ex-husband, staring right at me. I froze, unable to move, wishing I could run away, but my body wouldn't respond. I could feel fear coursing through me, causing me to break out in a cold sweat.

"This is my secretary, Ms. Kylie," Mark proudly introduced me.

Both Liam and Ryan were shocked to see me, and they remained silent. Mark, confused by the situation, couldn't understand what was happening.

"I... I'm Liam Edward," he finally managed to stammer out.

As you compose yourself, you gather the courage to shake Ryan back, pretending not to know him. Your hand trembles, but you hold it out anyway, hoping for a response. Instead of shaking your hand, Ryan just stares at you, as if you're not real. It's frustrating and makes the situation even worse. Liam whispers something to Ryan, and finally, he snaps out of it and shakes your hand.

"N-nice to meet you, sir," you stammer, your voice trembling. Everyone around can sense your nervousness. Ryan smiles, and for a moment, it feels genuine.

Meanwhile, Mark, driven by jealousy, places his hand on your waist, pulling you closer. You wish he knew that his actions only make things worse. You want to react, but you stop yourself. After all, Ryan doesn't seem to care, and neither do you.

                                RYAN P.O.V
In Ryan's point of view, he reflects on seeing you today. He realizes that you seem happier without him, and it doesn't hurt him; instead, he feels guilty for causing you so much pain. He acknowledges that you loved him in the purest way, while he fed you nothing but pain. Maybe, he thinks, God took you away from him because he didn't deserve you. Despite all the hurt he caused, you still showed unwavering love and loyalty. You're not just a good woman or a good person; you're a beautiful soul, radiating light in your smile and love in your bones. He yearns for a chance to make things right with you.

                                  •••••••••••

After a few awkward moments, we all sat down. Mark and Liam got caught up in their partnership talk, but Ryan's intense gaze made me uneasy. I tried to stay calm for Mark's sake, not wanting to ruin his moment of happiness. But my heart was hurting, sitting across from my ex-husband, pretending everything was fine when it wasn't. Memories of past pain flooded my mind all at once.