The Deal Maker

The rain poured down relentlessly, casting a gloomy shadow over the city. The droplets hit the pavement with a rhythmic intensity, creating a symphony of sound that was both calming and chaotic. I stood under the awning of a nearby building, watching as people scurried for cover. Some clutched umbrellas, while others pulled up their hoods, trying to escape the deluge. I sympathized with their plight, having been caught off guard myself. My hair, carefully styled that morning, now clung to my scalp, and my shoes squelched with every step.

A man, drenched from head to toe, stumbled into the awning beside me. His hair was plastered to his forehead, and his clothes clung to his body, accentuating his lean physique. He shook the rain from his hair, sending droplets flying in all directions. Great weather, huh?" he muttered, his eyes sparkling with amusement. I found myself smiling in response, despite the gloomy atmosphere. There was something infectious about his grin, something that made me want to laugh along with him. I raised an eyebrow, amused by his sarcasm. "Just peachy," I replied, trying to match his lighthearted tone. The man chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. The man turned to me, his eyes scanning my face before settling on my shoes. "You're not exactly dressed for the weather, are you?" His gaze lingered on my high heels, and I felt a twinge of self-consciousness. I felt a spark of annoyance at his tone, but I pushed it aside. "I wasn't expecting to get caught in the rain," I explained, trying to sound nonchalant. The man nodded sympathetically. You're not from around here, are you?" His eyes sparkled with curiosity, and I found myself drawn to his charismatic presence. I shook my head, intrigued despite myself. No, I'm not," I replied, wondering what had given me away. The man smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I can tell," he said. "You don't have that... hardened look that city people get." The man's gaze lingered on mine, a hint of curiosity flickering in his eyes. For a moment, we just stood there, the sound of the rain creating a cozy intimacy between us. I felt a shiver run down my spine as our eyes locked, a sense of connection that I couldn't quite explain. As we stood there, I couldn't help but notice the way the rain brought out the scent of wet earth and ozone. It was a primal, elemental smell, one that seemed to speak to something deep within me. The man, too, seemed to be affected by the atmosphere. His eyes seemed to darken, his pupils dilating as he gazed at me. I felt a flutter in my chest, a sense of excitement that I couldn't quite explain. And then, just as suddenly as it had begun, the moment was over. The man looked away, breaking the spell that had been cast between us. "I'm Malvin, by the way," he said, holding out his hand. I took it, feeling a jolt of electricity as our palms touched. "I'm...," I began, but Malvin interrupted me. "You're the CEO of Smith Industries, aren't you?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. I nodded, surprised. "How did you know?" Malvin smiled. "I've done my research. I'm here to discuss a potential partnership between our companies." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "I wasn't aware of any discussions." Malvin shrugged. "That's because I've been dealing with your assistant. But I have to say, I'm glad I got to meet you in person." His eyes locked onto mine, and I felt that shiver run down my spine once again.