A Step Forward

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''Sir, the lady has arrived''

''Let her in'' upon hearing his master's voice, the loyal servant opened the door allowing her to enter. And as soon as she did, she was mesmerized by the fine architecture of the place, not that she wasn't the moment she set her foot here, but it has only gotten more beautiful with each step she took inside.

However, nothing captured her gaze more than him and his glorious presence that sent shivers down her spine. 'So this is the rumored Beast? Surely.. a man worthy of his reputation!'

Without wasting time, Blair neared the handsome older man that was sitting down on his desk while sipping on a cup of whiskey. He didn't bother to lift his eyes from his drink as he said: ''Well... Miss Grace, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?''

She took a seat beside him and put on a gentle smile then proceeded in talking

"Mister King, looks like you aren't the kind of person that beats around the bush. Well, that's alright with me since I came here for.. pure business.''

A humorless chuckle left his throat as he eyed the blonde beauty in front of him. She was indeed pretty... no, gorgeous but her looks cannot be her savior during times like this. Was she even able to talk about business? especially with him. Was she capable of going beyond her world of acting and singing to meet... his? Well that's what he was about to discover. And with a single signal of his hand she continued:

''We will discuss further after you have a look at the contents of this folder''

He stayed still then decided to take it from her hand.

Blair studied his facial expressions with patience and when she noticed his brows furrowing, her rosy lips curved into a smirk.

Throwing the old documents on his huge desk, his gaze shifted back to her emerald eyes that seemed to sparkle with thousands of unspoken words.

''Miss Grace, you have surely sparked my interest but... What is your benefit from giving me such... Documents? Do you realize that these evidences are able to destroy your whole family and even... You? This is a conclusive proof of your uncle's involvement in illegal business? Something that-"

''Something that you have been looking for in order to get rid of a troublesome bug that has been recently crossing its limits... Yeah, it's becoming very annoying not only for you but also for me. Don't they say 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend'?... Well, not exactly a friend but more like.. an ally! And I would love to have such a strong ally as yourself and.. be on your side, even if it meant going against the w-...My whole family"

'I've witnessed before how my uncle used to tremble at the mere mention of your name not only once but many times. How he searched for solutions that will help him to get rid of you so that he will no longer be at your command. You were, and still are, his worst nightmare. I remember clearly that glorious day; the day I realized that the people who have the ability to control you and make you fear them are also controlled by others... the ones that are above them! That day, my uncle went out early in the morning and came back at midnight... may I add 'White as a sheet'! I couldn't go to sleep that night, I was the only person awake at the mansion. And so, I had the pleasure to see him during his worst state. He entered the hall wearing a dirty bloodied shirt, limping and groaning. If I didn't put my hands on my mouth, my laughter's sound would've filled the entire house. It might've been a painful sight for others but for me it surely was quite the funny one. Only days later, have I known that it was actually your punishment for his misbehavior. Back then, I wanted to thank you but knowing that we would never meet each other, I brushed the thought aside. Who would've thought that I'd be sitting in front of you one day, offering you a deal? Life is surely unpredictable!' She wanted to add her unspoken words yet she decided against it. After all some things need to be hidden; that's what her surroundings taught her during her early days in this battle we call life.

The younger woman was aware that it was a matter of time before he laid his hands on such proofs and at that time it would be the downfall of the whole family... all of them, without exception! So, before anything of that happens she has to secure her position by showing him that she is useful to him... and surely she will gain something in return.

His aura, his presence, and even his mere action.. screamed power. The one thing that she is willing to sacrifice everything for. And will do anything to get. Because in this world, only the powerful ones can survive and live with bliss. 'The weak people are meant to wander aimlessly through the narrow streets, alone and frightened. They are seen as nothing but dirty rats or a pandemic to avoid.' Whispered the little voice from her past; The voice that has been refusing to leave her since long ago only to come back and hunt her every time she stumbles back a little bit. It has to remind her of such consequences after all.

''So.. blood isn't really thicker than water! Or... Maybe there is an advantage that is more important than... Blood! May I know what it is?''

As she was about to welcome some painful memories in her head, a deep voice interrupted her Terrance of thoughts. And just when his words registered in her mind he lips moved on their own:

''I'm sure you've heard something about... those terrible rumors that keep on surrounding me.. You see, mm... it has only gotten worse lately and if this continues on.. I risk losing my career! So-''

"So you need someone who has enough influence to get you out of this trouble that, from what I think, has a strong connection to that uncle of yours... I'd say it's not a bad deal but... What guarantees me your loyalty? You might be working for someone else, for all that I know.''

''Loyalty is hard to earn and... prove. Only time is able to prove it... Well, that's all that I had to say. It would be better if I leave now... Oh and as for contacting me I think that you have your own ways..'Chuckle'.. Waiting to hear some happy news from your side, dear sir ''

"And.. What if I refuse?''

"Would you?'' came out her gentle whisper that showed her confidence; a confidence that wouldn't wither.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

'Unfairness, injustice and many other terrible things has she been through! And she Despite all this, she remained steadfast until justice was achieved and the truth was revealed! She even declared during her latest interview that she is willing to forgive whoever slandered her. How can we not love her after all of this? Her fans are multiplying each minute and her story deserves to be passed on to future generations. Our dear star Blair Grace has come back with her glory..'

While the world was in chaos outside, the heroine of this tale was laying on her sofa in front of her TV listening... or more like enjoying the news of the media and her fans.

'Siding with this man is even more beneficial than I thought. His abilities are almost frightening. I wonder what he'll do with that Christopher. I don't think he'll throw him right away from the business world. He might use him first to get rid of other nasty bugs; he's gonna be a good puppet. This is like killing two birds with one stone. I gotta enjoy my time before another storm comes along.'

And with that in her mind, she went to the kitchen to get a drink to celebrate yet another success.

Little did she know that this simple alliance would turn into something deeper and deeper. And maybe after a few other storms the sun will shine brightly on her deserted heart. Maybe.. just maybe!

End of Flashback