10. My Father
The boardroom is filled with high-ranking executives and investors seated around a large polished table. A sense of anticipation fills the air as I, stands at the head of the table, ready to deliver my closing remarks, while feeling the intense gaze of Arik piercing my soul.
A projector screen displays impressive financial charts and projections.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed investors, thank you for your unwavering support and faith in our vision. Today marks an important milestone in our journey together." I declared and stood up.
The room buzzes with anticipation as the investors lean forward, eager to hear my final words.
"We've faced numerous challenges, yet through sheer determination and collaboration, we have emerged stronger than ever. Our innovation has set new industry standards, and our financial performance speaks for itself."
A wave of pride washes over the faces of the executives as they exchange glances, silently acknowledging the achievements they have made as a team.
As Arik continues to gaze at me intently, it appears that he is attempting to capture my full attention.
Throughout the entire meeting, his approach towards me has been professional. However, as the meeting draws to a close, he once again approaches me, exuding an irresistible charm.
"But today, I stand before you not just as the CEO of the Percepta Group but as a testament to the power of unwavering commitment. Each one of you sitting here has played an integral role in our success, and for that, I express my deepest gratitude."
The investors nod appreciatively, their faces reflecting a mixture of satisfaction and curiosity. Arik's gaze on me deepened as he smirked at me. I didn't pay attention to it and continued speaking.
"Our journey doesn't end here. In fact, it's only the beginning. The opportunities that lie ahead are vast, and with your continued support, we will conquer new frontiers. Together, we will redefine what is possible and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come."
A round of applause fills the room, echoing the shared optimism and determination.
"In closing, let us remember that success is not measured solely by financial gains but by the positive impact we create in the world. I am humbled to be surrounded by such brilliant minds and unwavering support."
The room falls into a moment of silence as the weight of my words sinks in. Each person in the room reflects on their collective purpose, a shared responsibility to make a difference.
"Thank you for your trust, your dedication, and your unwavering belief in our shared vision. Together, we will continue to change lives, push boundaries, and build a future that we can all be proud of."
After exchanging brief pleasantries, I exited the conference room and made my way back to my office. Arik's company, Florida INC., along with his cousin Spiker, had decided to invest in our upcoming projects, and I was certain that Mom and Dad would be delighted by the news.
However, I wasn't sure if it was a good thing for me personally.
"Ma'am Celeste, Teacher Amelia actually dropped off Ariah here earlier. I accommodated her in the adjacent room," Pau informed me, placing some papers on my desk.
Anxiety washed over me instantly. I had completely forgotten that Ariah would be staying here today since she only had half a day of school. She couldn't be left alone at home; there was no one there with her.
I swallowed hard. "Since earlier?"
"Yes, Ma'am. Sir Oliver also called, saying he's on his way here."
I nodded and quickly made my way to the adjacent room in my office. I found Ariah sitting quietly at the study table designated just for her, engrossed in what seemed like writing. I had it specially prepared because she often visited my office.
"Ariah," I called out to her, capturing her attention. Instead of waiting for her to approach me, I walked over and embraced her.
"How are you? Mommy's meeting just ended. You'll be waiting for me here until later. Is that okay with you?" I asked, glancing at the notebook in front of her.
I was left speechless when I saw what she was working on. It seemed to be a project—a family tree designed in a chart format.
At the top were our names, mine and hers, and next to her name was a blank space. Below that were Mom and Dad, and her uncles.
That empty space left a question lingering in my mind.
"It's fine, Mommy. I like being here in your office," she replied casually, continuing with her writing.
"Is that an assignment, dear?" I asked.
"Yes, Mommy," she simply replied.
"Why is there a space next to your name?" I asked, my voice filled with curiosity.
She turned to look at me, her face filled with questions, but I couldn't decipher what she wanted to convey.
"For my father's name, Mommy. Why?" she responded.
Her words caught me off guard. I suddenly felt a pang of guilt. I didn't know what to say.
"Don't worry, Mommy. I won't put his name on it. My teacher said it's okay," she said, redirecting her attention back to the notebook.
I fell into silence, even more unsure of what to say.
She knows who her father is. I've told her about him ever since she was old enough to understand, and I know she remembers. At first, when I introduced her father to her, she had questions that I slowly answered.
But as time went on, she stopped asking about him. Instead, she often asked what happened to me, why we ended up in Spain.
And I told her about it, but not everything.
I stopped watching Ariah when there was a knock on the door. Shortly after, Pau's head popped in.
"Excuse me, Ma'am. Mr. Rioflorida is outside. He wants to speak with you," Pau informed me.
I immediately glanced at Ariah, and as I suspected, that caught her attention. Her face lit up, her eyebrows furrowed in question.
"Rioflorida? That's his family name, right, Mommy?" she asked immediately.
I bit my lower lip. I nodded to Pau, signaling for her to leave, and then I faced Ariah.
"That's someone else, sweetheart. Mommy will go outside for a minute. Stay here, okay? Use the telephone if you need anything, hmm?" I instructed her.
Her forehead remained furrowed, and it seemed like she had more to say, but I avoided it. I quickly kissed her on the head and left the room. It didn't take long for me to return to my office.