Zain walked toward Lara and took off his sunglasses.
"Hi, I'm Zain, co-founder of Company A, alongside Mr. Rain," he said, extending his hand for a handshake.
Lara straightened.
"Hi, I'm Lara, founder of Company B. Nice to meet you, Mr. Zain," she replied, shaking his hand.
The handshake was firm… and tense. Zain's eyes stayed fixed on her, and a slow smirk formed when he noticed she was still trying to gather herself.
He released her hand, breaking both the contact and the silence.
"So… what do we have?" he said, settling into his chair.
The meeting moved smoothly—presentations, resource utilization, product demos, followed by a series of discussions and feedback.
Finally, he spoke.
"I'm impressed with the quality, Ms. Lara. I expect the same consistency throughout."
Lara nodded, composed and professional.
"Thank you for the trust, Mr. Zain. Team, great work today. We can wrap up."
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In the parking lot
Daisy and Lara were heading out for Ben's Silver Jubilee celebration when Zain suddenly appeared beside Lara's car.
"Honey," he drawled, leaning casually against the door, "we're going to the same place. Mind dropping me off?"
Daisy froze in the passenger seat, completely confused.
"And why," Lara hissed, "would I do that? Get a car. Rent one. Or better, walk."
"Come on, little rabbit," he teased, lowering his voice. "We're both going to Uncle Ben's ceremony."
Then he turned to Daisy with a charming smile.
"Is it a crime, Ms. Daisy?"
"N-No… it's not a crime. Please hop in," Daisy said automatically. This is our 1st meet, so how does he know my name? she thought.
Lara whipped her head toward her, eyes wide with betrayal.
Zain only smirked and opened the back door, like he'd just won a silent battle.
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"So, Daisy," he began casually as Lara drove off, clearly speeding just to shorten his time in the car, "how long have you known my little rabbit?"
Daisy blinked. My little rabbit?!Then she brightened. "It's been ages! We've been friends since school."
Then, curious, she added, "What about you, Mr. Zain? How long have you known Mr. Rain? You two seem to trust each other a lot. Otherwise, you wouldn't be partners."
Zain chuckled softly, something warm flickering in his voice.
"I met him when I first came to City B. We were just kids then. Rain's father used to work for our company. After he passed away, Rain had no one, so… we kind of grew up together. Shared the same room. Same meals. Same struggles. Practically, he's my brother from another mother. Been through every thick and thin with me. Best man I've ever had in my life."
"Oh…" Daisy replied quietly, the weight of his words settling in.