Page 8 of A Million Shades Of Love and Betrayal

"That's what I was thinking," Roman agreed, his eyes alight with ambition. "I've been considering pitching the idea of opening a restaurant or bar with Rashid. Something classy, exclusive."

"That sounds like a great idea," I told him. "I've been wanting to open a hotel in Dubai, this might be the break I need to get into the scene. You have no idea how hard it is to pitch an idea with them when you don't have someone on the inside, guiding you through it."

"Well shit, it's a lucky thing he accepted my invitation."

I looked him up and down. "You're the reason he's coming here?"

He scoffed. "Of course not, there's something wrong with his jet and it won't be fixed until about two weeks from now, so he's buying one from me."

"How much?"

"Fifty million."

"Well damn," I leaned back in my chair, surprised at how much he spent on a jet when he probably had more just waiting to be used. "You know why he's coming here?"

"No clue, but I assume it’s something to do with his family, his son is flying in with him."

Fucking hell! "Will he be at the gala as well?"

"It's likely."

"Ivan Rashid at your gala next week," I mused aloud, processing the implications. "This could be our chance to make a lasting impression."

Roman nodded eagerly, his mind already racing with ideas. "Exactly! We could propose a joint venture with Rashid. It's the kind of collaboration that could secure our place among the elite."

The idea took root in my mind, a seed of ambition sprouting with each passing moment. Combining our efforts seemed like a strategic move. Together, we could present a compelling proposal to Ivan Rashid, highlighting our strengths and vision for the future. It would also be less daunting to pitch to him when I had Roman by my side.

"I think you're onto something, Roman," I replied, a sense of determination igniting within me. "Let's combine our resources and leave a lasting impression on Rashid at the gala."

Roman grinned, his confidence infectious. "I was hoping you'd say that."

As we delved into the details of our plan, excitement and anticipation filled the room. The prospect of a partnership with Ivan Rashid held immense potential, and I was ready to seize the opportunity with both hands. Our conversation drifted into strategizing, brainstorming ideas, and envisioning a future where our collaboration flourished immensely.

Time passed in a blur as we finalized our approach, drafting proposals and fine-tuning our ideas. The clock ticked steadily, a reminder of the approaching gala where our fate would be decided.

As Roman bid farewell and left my office, I couldn't help but feel a surge of adrenaline. The prospect of meeting Ivan Rashid and presenting our proposal filled me with nerves. The next week would be crucial, a pivotal moment that could shape the future of Amato Industries and our partnership with Vitale Airlines.

With renewed determination, I returned to the contract on my desk, the earlier distractions now replaced by a laser focus. The path ahead was clear—we would make our mark at the gala, displaying our ambition and determination to secure a deal with Ivan Rashid.

-7-

Yasmin

I stood in front of the floor-length mirror, the elegant emerald dress draped around me like a second skin. The color brought out the green flecks in my eyes, and I couldn't help but smile at the reflection staring back at me. My now black hair made my eyes pop even more and I felt beautiful. Rafael was right, black hair was a good color for me.

"Wow Yaz, that dress is stunning on you," Amirah remarked from her perch on the plush sofa, her eyes bright with admiration. She had been my partner in crime throughout the day, offering her honest opinions on each dress I tried on. "It brings out the green in your eyes."

I turned to face her, a grateful smile spreading across my face. Thanks, Amirah. I think this might be the one.”

Before I could bask in the moment, our phones buzzed simultaneously, indicating an incoming call. I frowned, wondering who could be calling us at the same time. A glance at the caller ID revealed it was a group video call from our father.

Amirah raised an eyebrow at me, her expression curious as she reached into her bag to pull out her phone. Her eyes widened in surprise as she turned the phone to show me who was calling. As expected it was our dad. I quickly grabbed my hoodie and threw it over the top of the dress, trying to cover it as best as possible.

"Why is he calling the both of us?" Amirah asked, clearly panicking.

"I'm sure he's just checking up on us," I told her, even though I wasn't sure how much truth there was to my words.

"Are you sure?" she continued. "What if he found out what you've been up to?"

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