Chapter 1 MEETING AMELIA

Kendrick Yang, CEO of the KY Global Group of Companies, has been known for its superiority in business for the last four generations, which makes the Yang Family the most prominent family in Y Country.

Kendrick, the sole heir of the Yang family, finds himself in a unique predicament. The Yang lineage, known for producing only one child per generation, has now reached a critical point. At forty-five, Kendrick's family is pressuring him to marry, arranging countless blind dates that only serve to frustrate him.

Despite his family's expectations, Kendrick is not one to settle for less. He yearns for a partner who can match his ambition, not just someone to fill a societal role. His dedication to work and his relentless pursuit of perfection leave him with little time for socializing.

With his usual business at work, Kendrick was checking several contracts his assistant, Alu, had presented to him when his phone rang.

"Kendrick, tonight is Nerissa's party! Remember to come!" Beryl exclaimed.

Beryl is Kendrick's childhood best friend, while Nerissa is Beryl's only sister, who holds a special place in Beryl's heart, and he spoils her a lot. His reminder to ensure Kendrick's presence at her party is a testament to their close bond.

"Yes, I will be there," Kendrick said and hung up.

"Alu, prepare a gift for Nerissa's party tonight."

"Yes, Sir."

"Buy two gifts. I remember Nerissa is celebrating with her best friend tonight."

"Sir, what is the occasion, if I may ask?"

"Both girls finished their PhD, and it's their celebratory party."

"Understood."

Kendrick is a perfectionist when it comes to work; he exhibits exemplary discipline, diligence, and dedication in all he does. He is competitive, achievement-oriented, and ambitious. He has a strong desire for success and productivity, and he always has a sense of urgency, which makes him impatient.

Moreover, Kendrick is highly organized and proactive in all aspects, and his high standards are equivalent to perfection. He thrives on every challenge and is motivated by the pursuit of advancement and success.

Kendrick would feel anxious and stressed when he identified any inefficiency or lack of organization; he would exhibit the need for strong control over the situation.

These traits are what put Kendrick at the top.

At exactly eight in the evening, Kendrick steps out of his Rolls Royce while Alu opens the door for him to arrive at the Le Club.

The party was already in full swing when Kendrick joined.

Grabbing a glass of red wine from the waiter, Kendrick walks over to meet with Beryl, who is chatting with their two other friends.

"Kendrick! I'm glad you are finally here! My sister has been bothering me all night, asking why you have not come! Five more minutes, and she would already run amok if she doesn't see you!" Beryl jokingly said.

"Come, and let me show you to her!" Beryl pulled Kendrick with him to find Nerissa.

Nerissa is with her best friend and other fellow graduates at the bar.

"Nerissa!" Beryl called her out.

When Nerissa saw her brother with Kendrick, she ran like a child, throwing herself at Kendrick.

"Brother Kendrick!" She excitedly shouted.

Kendrick has been used to Nerissa's childish and spoiled act and has indulged her.

"Brother Kendrick, let me introduce you to my best friend!"

"You change your best friend every time we meet." Kendrick laughingly retorted.

"No, no, no... She's been my best friend for the past three years. But she is too introverted; she hates attending parties and meeting people, which is why you have not met her! But not tonight; I made sure she was present by putting our celebration together!" Nerissa happily said at the same time, pulling Kendrick to the end of the bar.

Kendrick was surprised to see a girl of Nerissa's age. Still, unlike Nerissa, this girl was wearing a simple white dress, her hair neatly combed in a ponytail, and she was without makeup. It's the purest temperament that she exudes that catches Kendrick's attention.

"Brother, this is my only best friend, Amelia! Amelia, this is my brother Kendrick I have told you about!" Nerissa introduces them. "Oh, and you already know my brother Beryl; never mind him!" Nerissa happily added.

Amelia smiled and extended her hand to Kendrick.

"It is good to meet you finally, Sir. I have heard so much about you from Nerissa."

As Kendrick listened to Amelia's sweet voice and felt her hand in his, he couldn't help but feel a flutter in his heart. It was a sensation he had never experienced before.

'No, she is just a girl.' Kendrick reminded himself.

On the other hand, Amelia's ears had turned red, and she felt Kendrick holding her hand.

'How can a man in his forties look this young and majestic?' Amelia, who has never been interested in men, felt her heart flip when he felt Kendrick's hand holding hers.

"It is good for Nerissa to have a friend like you," Kendrick said while still holding her hand.

"Brother! What do you mean by that?!" Nerissa whined.

Kendrick chuckled upon hearing Nerissa and shuffled her hair like a kid.

"Ah! You ruined my hair!"

"Come on, let's go back to our friends. They have not seen you for a long time; they especially came just to see you." Beryl declared.

Kendrick nodded without his eyes leaving Amelia.

"I have prepared a gift for you and Nerissa," Kendrick said to Amelia.

"Thank you." Amelia shyly replied.

"Then, I'll go back to our friends."

"Um," Nerissa uttered, giving a wave while blushing.