Chapter Three: The Confrontation

Liya’s thoughts were a whirlwind as she prepared for her imminent meeting with Mr. Ree. The clock read noon, and the anticipation hung thick in the air. She picked up her phone and dialed Aisha’s number.

“Aisha, let’s meet with Mr. Ree at 1 PM. It’s time we address his breach of contract head-on,” she instructed firmly. After hanging up, she felt a familiar twinge of hunger. It was the perfect moment for a quick lunch before the confrontation.

Taking the elevator to the 41st floor, her penthouse, Liya stepped into her personal sanctuary. The space was tastefully decorated, a blend of modern elegance and personal touches that reflected her journey. She loved this place—it was her refuge from the chaos of the world below.

In the kitchen, she slipped into a comfortable rhythm, preparing Indian-style fried rice. The fragrant spices danced in the air as she stirred the ingredients, a reminder of home and her roots. Once finished, she plated the vibrant dish alongside a bowl of cool yogurt, savoring the familiar flavors.

As she sat at her dining table, she found solace in the simple act of eating. Using a fork might seem odd to some—especially when it came to rice—but it was a family tradition from her father’s side, one she cherished. She thought about how food connected her to her past and fueled her ambition.

After finishing her meal, Liya felt a sense of satisfaction wash over her. She called Aisha to ensure everything was in order for the meeting, then allowed herself a brief respite.

Liya closed her eyes on the plush sofa, letting sleep envelop her. There was a common myth that successful people thrived on only a few hours of sleep, but for her, it was the opposite. A good nap was her secret weapon; it refreshed her, cleared her mind, and left her feeling invigorated and sharp.

After thirty minutes, she woke up, her mind buzzing with clarity. She quickly tidied herself, smoothing her tailored blazer and adjusting her mask. It was a signature part of her appearance, not merely for protection against biological infections but also to maintain an air of mystique. Few had seen her true face, and she intended to keep it that way.

Making her way back to her office, she found Aisha and Joie waiting with expectant looks. Their energy mirrored her own as they strode together toward the meeting room, where the tension was already palpable.

As they entered, Liya’s eyes locked onto Mr. Ree, who was seated at the table, flanked by his secretary. He greeted her with a forced smile, one that barely concealed his unease.

“Good afternoon, Miss Liya,” he said, his voice dripping with false charm.

“Let’s get to the point,” she replied, her tone cool and composed as she gestured for him to sit.

Aisha took the lead, her voice steady. “Mr. Ree, the contract between our companies clearly states that you cannot engage with Rossoé Industries. You’ve violated that agreement, and now you have two choices: either pay four billion as compensation or surrender your company to me. If not, we’ll see you in court.”

Mr. Ree’s bravado wavered, his eyes darting around the room as if searching for support. “That is not going to happen. You should know I am in favor of Zack De Rossoé,” he shot back, his tone defensive.

Aisha leaned forward, a mocking smile playing on her lips. “Do you really think I’m afraid of him?”

Liya leaned back in her chair, observing the exchange with a mix of amusement and admiration for Aisha’s boldness. This was the kind of confrontation she thrived on—the push and pull of power.

“Mr. Ree,” Liya interjected smoothly, “do you know what I hate the most? Double-faced people.” Her gaze pierced through him. “You have one choice: either give me your company, or don’t blame me for the consequences that follow.” She smiled—a calculated expression that hinted at the storm brewing beneath her composed exterior.

Mr. Ree’s confidence crumbled. “We’ll see who faces the consequences,” he retorted, though his voice lacked conviction.

With a curt nod, he stormed out of the room, leaving behind an air of tension. Once he was gone, Liya turned to Joie, her expression shifting from calm to determined. “Proceed with the plan as discussed. We need to make a statement.”

“What time is the press conference?” she asked, her voice steady.

“At 4 PM, Miss,” Aisha replied, her eyes glinting with anticipation.

“Perfect. Let’s make sure everything is in place.”

Liya took a moment to gather her thoughts, reflecting on her carefully crafted persona. While everyone knew of her, very few had seen her face. The mask she wore over the lower half of her face served as both a physical shield and a symbolic barrier against the vulnerabilities of the world. In a business landscape rife with deceit, she preferred to guard her true self, to remain an enigma.

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When father and mother are used that means Liya's biological parents

and

when mom and dad means Sara and Jo

From lavv

Hope you all like the edited version of old chapters

Love lavv

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