Chapter 3 The second meeting

A Business Luncheon at Blackwell Enterprises

It had been a few weeks since the gala. In that time, Sophia and Edward had crossed paths at several events-high-society parties, charity fundraisers, and occasional business dinners hosted by their families. But this time was different. Sophia's father had insisted she attend a private luncheon at Blackwell Enterprises to discuss a potential merger between the Davenports and Blackwell Enterprises-a meeting of the families, so to speak.

Sophia had been hesitant, knowing that Edward would likely be present, and she wasn't sure if she was prepared to face him again. But her father had been adamant, stressing the importance of making a good impression on Edward and his family for the sake of the deal.

As she entered the modern yet elegant conference room of Blackwell Enterprises, Sophia felt the weight of the situation. This wasn't just another social gathering. This was about business-about the future of their families. She could sense the undercurrent of power that ran through the air, like an invisible thread weaving everything together. The walls of the conference room, adorned with expensive artwork and minimalist decor, felt colder than the ballroom of the gala.

She scanned the room and found Edward standing near the window, speaking with a few investors. His tailored suit and immaculate appearance remained as imposing as ever, but there was something different about him this time. His demeanor seemed colder, less warm than before, as if the charm he had displayed at the gala was a mere mask that had started to slip.

As her eyes met his across the room, Edward's lips curled into a controlled smile. He excused himself from the conversation and approached her, his steps measured and deliberate. His smile was professional-no longer the charming, almost flirtatious smile he had given her at the gala. This time, it felt more calculated, like a man who knew the stakes.

"Miss Davenport," he greeted, his voice smooth but detached. "I'm glad you could make it today."

Sophia nodded politely, offering a small smile. "Of course, Mr. Blackwell. I wouldn't miss it."

He gestured toward the long, sleek table where the business lunch would take place. "Please, take a seat. The others will be joining us soon."

As they sat down, the conversation shifted to the details of the merger-terms, financials, strategies, and the future of both families. Edward was sharp, confident, and in full control of the room, as he always was in business settings. But Sophia couldn't help but notice the subtle shift in their dynamic. There was no warmth, no lighthearted conversation like the last time they met. It was all business-just the way he wanted it.

The meeting moved forward with a clinical focus, but as the discussions progressed, Sophia began to feel more uneasy in her seat. Edward, ever the perfectionist, had managed to position himself as the figurehead of this merger. His voice dominated the conversation, and he made sure to remind everyone of the Blackwell legacy and how important it was to maintain control over the deal.

It wasn't just his tone that unsettled her-it was his complete lack of interest in her input, despite her family's significant role in the negotiations. He would glance at her every now and then, but his attention quickly shifted back to the financials, never fully engaging with her. It was as though she were an afterthought-a necessary part of the deal, but not someone whose opinion he truly valued.

When the conversation turned to the details of the final agreement, Sophia found herself growing increasingly frustrated. This was supposed to be a partnership, but it felt more like an acquisition-a one-sided deal where her family's contribution seemed secondary to the Blackwells' agenda.

Edward, noticing her growing discomfort, leaned in slightly, his voice low but confident. "You don't seem entirely convinced, Miss Davenport," he remarked, a hint of amusement in his tone.

Sophia blinked, surprised by the sudden attention. "I'm just trying to understand why this feels more like a takeover than a partnership," she replied, her voice firm yet calm.

Edward's eyes flickered, and for a moment, there was something dark in his gaze-a flicker of irritation that quickly vanished. He leaned back in his chair, his posture rigid. "It's the way the world works, Sophia. You'll understand that eventually." His words were final, dismissive, as if he had just explained something trivial to a child. "In business, the strong lead. And the strong don't wait for approval."

Sophia felt a surge of frustration, but she kept her emotions in check. This wasn't the first time she'd heard this kind of rhetoric. Still, there was something about the way Edward spoke-something that felt condescending. He wasn't just showing her the ropes of business; he was treating her like she didn't belong in the room.

The moment hung between them, charged with unspoken tension. Edward's gaze softened just slightly, and he added, "But I'm sure you'll come to appreciate the bigger picture soon enough. We're not enemies here, Sophia. We're simply allies in a world that requires us to think strategically."

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