Ryan: Is it love - The original story (Game walk through)

Chapter one part two

Mister Carter > So go ahead. We're listening.

I've just been kindly lectured. I guess it's his thing, judging by the way Mark seems so tense in his presence.

> Er...

Mister Carter > Go ahead. I'd like to hear what you have to say. Only this time, with a little more arguments.

He's staring at me, defiantly. I'm gonna have to be convincing. Obviously, he's deciding on my fate. Breathe Lily, breathe. I mustn't let myself get intimidated. After all, CEO or not, there are most probably areas where he has a few things to learn. He built a multinational company, not a gastronomical restaurant! I take a deep breath. There's nothing to be afraid of, I know what to answer, I do it every day on my blog!

> Ahem... Well... Red Saumur wine isn't ideal. Even if it's subtle, it's nonetheless tannic and could crush the scallops savour rather than enhance it. If you want to stay with a French wine, I would choose a white Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion. Its nose is intense and subtle evolving into yellow fruity notes. Its hint of vanilla will leave a fresh and creamy impression in the mouth which will blend perfectly with the delicate taste of the scallop. And if I may... Serving the scallops with a truffle flavoured sauce would be perfect.

Mark's jaw is practically touching the floor, whilst Mr. Carter is staring at me, looking intrigued. I feel a certain sense of pride in shutting him up. But my victory is short lived. His eyes glisten in amusement.

Mister Carter > Or maybe a premier cru Chablis with its honey and vanilla nose, would go perfectly with the delicate taste of the scallop.

I stay speechless before Ryan's knowledge of the subject. I have to say that he can hold his own when it comes down to French wine!

Mister Carter > You are a real connoisseur, Miss Langood?

> No... Simply passionate about the good things in life.

Mister Carter > Very interesting.

We're now facing each other like two duellists. He's on my grounds. I could go on about this subject for hours almost forgetting Mark's presence. Mark clears his throat.

Mark > Should I change something then, Mr. Carter?

The next few seconds seem never-ending, he just continues to stare at me in silence, smirking.

Mister Carter > Yes. And take account of the young lady's remarks.

He stands and glances at his phone. I stand with him, as you do when someone important enters or leaves a room.

Mr Carter > Complete the budget for the ball. Check that everything's been booked for the investors tomorrow. Get back to Anderson about the FSO's activities on the Australian coast. Tell Zack that I want to see the results for Piers&Strack's REX. And confirm my appointment with Patrick du Forbes this afternoon.

After having finished his expansive list with Mark patiently nodding his head, the CEO heads towards the exit. He moves with the confidence and elegance of a panther. The scent of his perfume lingers. The manly yet subtle smell is strangely familiar. As if it found its echo in me.

Mister Carter > Miss...

> Sir...

Without further ado, he leaves the room.

I feel like I can breathe again and that the temperature in the room has become bearable. I let out a little sigh of relief. Mark takes notes, puts his documents away then switches the projector off in silence.