My Rival, My Lover

The leather chair creaks as I shift, my palms damp against the sleek armrests. Across the expanse of gleaming mahogany, Mr. Daniels fixes me with a steely gaze that makes my heart race. The scent of his expensive cologne mingles with the leather and pine, filling the air with the essence of power and wealth.

"Aria," he says, "do you know why I called you in today?"

I swallow hard. "I assume it's about the Apex merger, sir."

He leans forward, elbows on the desk, fingers steepled. "Indeed. You've been with us for five years now, correct?"

"Yes, sir. Five years next month."

A ghost of a smile flickers across his face. "And in that time, you've consistently exceeded expectations. Your work on the Johnson account was particularly impressive."

"Thank you, sir." I fight to keep the pride from my voice, even as warmth blooms in my chest.

Mr. Daniels stands, moving to the floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a panoramic view of the city skyline. "This merger with Apex Corp is critical, Aria. It could redefine our position in the market."

I nod, though he can't see me. "I understand, sir. The potential for growth is significant."

He turns, pinning me with his gaze. "Which is why I'm assigning you as project lead."

My breath catches, and for a moment, I'm sure I've misheard. "I'm sorry, sir. Did you say—"

"Project lead, yes." He returns to his seat, leaning back. "You've proven yourself time and again, Aria. This is your chance to show everyone what you're truly capable of."

Excitement and terror war within me, but I keep my expression neutral. "Thank you, sir. I won't let you down."

"See that you don't." His tone carries a hint of warning. "This is big, Aria. Career-defining. I need your full focus and dedication."

"Of course," I reply, my mind already racing with plans and strategies. "I'll give it my all."

As Mr. Daniels outlines the merger details, I feel the weight of responsibility settling on my shoulders. It's exhilarating and terrifying all at once. This is my chance to truly prove myself, to silence the lingering doubts about my capabilities—both my own and those of others.

When the meeting concludes, I stand on slightly shaky legs. "I'll get started right away," I assure him, smoothing my blazer with hands that tremble just a little.

"One more thing, Aria," Mr. Daniels says as I reach for the door handle. "You'll be working closely with Blake Blackwood from Apex."

I freeze, my fingers tightening on the cool metal. Blake Blackwood—Apex Corp's golden boy and my new biggest rival. Known for his ruthless business tactics and heart-stopping good looks.

"Is that going to be a problem?" Mr. Daniels asks, his tone deceptively casual.

I turn, forcing a smile. "Not at all, sir. I look forward to collaborating with Mr. Blackwood."

As I step out of his office, the lie tastes bitter on my tongue. Working with Blake Blackwood? This merger just got a whole lot more complicated.

The click of my heels echoes through the hallway as I stride away from Mr. Daniels' office, chin held high despite the storm of emotions brewing inside me. The familiar scent of coffee and printer toner fills my nostrils, grounding me in the everyday rhythm of office life even as my world tilts on its axis.

"Aria!" A shrill voice cuts through my thoughts. "Is it true?"

I turn to see Sarah from Marketing hurrying towards me, her perfectly coiffed blonde hair bouncing with each step. Her smile is wide, but her eyes betray her envy.

"Is what true, Sarah?" I ask, keeping my tone neutral even as my stomach clenches.

She leans in. "That you're leading the Apex merger. I heard Daniels talking to HR about it."

Of course she did. Nothing travels faster in this office than gossip, especially when Sarah's involved.

I force a smile. "Yes, it's true. Mr. Daniels just informed me."

Sarah's eyes widen, a mix of envy and calculation swirling in their depths. "Wow, congratulations! That's quite a responsibility. And working with Blake Blackwood, too. I hear he's...intense."

The way she says 'intense' makes it clear she means something else entirely. I resist the urge to roll my eyes.

"I'm sure Mr. Blackwood and I will work together just fine," I say, my tone clipped. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a lot of work to do."

I brush past her, ignoring the way her gaze burns into my back. The whispers start almost immediately, following me down the hallway like persistent shadows.

By the time I reach my office, my hands are shaking. I close the door behind me, leaning against it for a moment as I take a deep breath. The familiar space calms me—the wall of marketing awards, the neatly organized desk, the small potted succulent Veronica gave me last Christmas.

"You've got this, Aria," I mutter to myself, moving to my chair. "It's just another project. Just another challenge to overcome."

But even as I think it, I know it's a lie. This isn't just another project. This is my shot at the big leagues, my chance to prove to everyone—my parents, my colleagues, myself—that I belong here.

I boot up my computer, fingers flying across the keyboard as I pull up everything I can find on Apex Corp. Financial reports, market analyses, press releases—I devour it all, scribbling notes and ideas in my sleek leather-bound notebook.

Hours pass in a blur of numbers and strategies. I'm so engrossed that the buzz of my phone startles me, nearly making me knock over my long-cold coffee.

It's a text from Veronica. "Don't forget our lunch date, workaholic!"

I glance at the clock and groan. How is it already noon? I contemplate canceling—there's so much work to do, and I've barely scratched the surface. But Veronica's voice echoes in my head. "All work and no play makes Aria a dull girl."

"On my way," I text back, grabbing my purse. A break might do me good, help me refocus.

The bustle of Sushi Zen envelops me as I push through the door, the cheerful chime of bells announcing my arrival. The scent of soy sauce and fresh fish fills the air, making my stomach growl. I spot Veronica's wild auburn curls at our usual corner table.

"There she is!" Veronica exclaims, her hazel eyes sparkling. "I was starting to think you'd stood me up for a hot date with your spreadsheets."

I slide into the seat across from her, rolling my eyes but unable to suppress a grin. "Very funny, Ronnie. You know my love affair with Excel is purely professional."

"Mhmm," she hums, eyeing me over her menu. "Spill it, Chen. You're practically vibrating with energy. What's got you so wound up?"

I can't hold it in any longer. The words tumble out in an excited rush. "We just landed a huge merger deal. And guess who's leading the project?"

Veronica's eyes widen. "No way! Aria, that's incredible!"

"I know!" I lean in, lowering my voice. "But here's the kicker—I'll be working directly with Blake Blackwood."

Veronica nearly chokes on her water. "Blake Blackwood? As in tall, dark, and deliciously ruthless Blake Blackwood?"

I nod, trying to ignore the flutter in my stomach at her description. "That's the one."

"Oh honey," Veronica says, a mischievous glint in her eye. "This just got a whole lot more interesting."

Before I can respond, our waiter appears to take our order. As soon as he's gone, Veronica leans in again.

"So, tell me everything. How do you feel about working with the infamous Mr. Blackwood?"

I sigh, running a hand through my hair. "Honestly? Terrified. Excited. Nauseous. Take your pick."

"Sounds like the start of a beautiful romance to me," Veronica teases.

I shoot her a glare. "This isn't one of your romance novels, Ronnie. This is business. High-stakes, career-defining business."

"Doesn't mean it can't be both," she says with a wink.

I'm saved from responding by the arrival of our food. As we dig into our sushi, Veronica's expression grows more serious.

"All joking aside, Aria, this is a big deal. I'm really proud of you."

Her sincerity catches me off guard, and I feel a lump form in my throat. "Thanks, V. That means a lot."

She reaches across the table, squeezing my hand. "You've worked hard for this. But...have you told your parents yet?"

And just like that, the bubble of excitement bursts. I shake my head, picking at my spicy tuna roll. "Not yet. I've been too busy with work."

"Aria," Veronica's voice is gentle but firm, "you know they'll want to hear about this. Especially your dad."

I bite my lip, guilt and frustration warring inside me. "I know, I know. It's just...complicated."

Veronica's eyes soften. "I get it. But this is huge, Aria. Don't let old wounds keep you from celebrating your success."

I nod, but the familiar weight of expectations settles on my shoulders. As much as I want to bask in this achievement, I can't shake the fear of disappointment—both my parents' and my own.

As we finish our lunch, I promise Veronica I'll call my parents tonight. But even as the words leave my mouth, I'm already planning how to bury myself in work instead.

Back at the office, I throw myself into merger preparations with renewed vigor. The hours fly by in a blur of spreadsheets and strategy documents. Before I know it, the office is dark and quiet, most of my colleagues long gone.

I stretch, feeling the ache in my shoulders from hours of hunching over my desk. A glance at the clock makes me wince—10:30 PM. So much for calling my parents.

I stand, moving to the window. The city sprawls before me, its lights glittering against the night sky. My reflection stares back at me, determination etched in every line of my face.

"This is it," I whisper, pressing my palm against the cool glass. "My chance to prove I'm more than just the Chen family disappointment."

A mix of excitement and anxiety churns in my stomach. The merger looms ahead, a mountain I'm both eager and terrified to climb. I've worked so hard for this moment, sacrificed so much. What if I fail?

My phone pings, startling me from my thoughts. It's a text from Mom. "Don't forget—family dinner tomorrow night. Your father's making your favorite dumplings."

I hesitate, my thumb hovering over the reply button. I should be preparing for the merger meeting. I should be working. I should be—

No. I shake my head, cutting off that thought. It's not a waste. It's family.

"I'll be there," I type, hitting send before I can change my mind.

As I gather my things to leave, I catch my reflection once more. My hair, once neatly pulled back, now has wisps escaping around my face. There are shadows under my eyes, but they're bright with determination.

"You've got this, Aria," I tell my reflection firmly. "You can ace this merger and still show up for family. You have to."

But as I step into the elevator, doubt creeps in. Can I really balance it all? Or am I setting myself up for failure on both fronts?

The doors slide closed, and I take a deep breath. Whatever happens, one thing's for certain—life is about to get a whole lot more complicated.

The gentle hiss of my espresso machine breaks the pre-dawn silence, its rich aroma filling my sleek kitchen. I inhale deeply, savoring the scent as I button my crisp white blouse. The cool silk slides against my skin, an armor of professionalism.

I smooth down my tailored black suit jacket, critically eyeing my reflection in the polished chrome of the refrigerator. Not a hair out of place in my sleek ponytail. Good. Perfection is key, especially today.

The first sip of my latte scalds my tongue, but I welcome the jolt. As the bitter liquid works its magic, sharpening my focus, I scroll through my emails. A new message from the CEO catches my eye, its subject line glowing like a beacon: "Excellent work, Aria."

My heart skips a beat as I open it. "Great work on the Johnson account, Aria. Keep it up."

A smile tugs at my lips, pride swelling in my chest. I've been killing it lately. I deserved the promotion to Senior Marketing Director. It was hard-won through countless late nights and sacrificed weekends.

My mind drifts back to the celebration last week, the memory as crisp as if it were happening now. I can almost feel the weight of expectant gazes as I stood at the front of the mahogany-paneled conference room, all eyes fixed on me.

"Thank you all for your support," I said. "This promotion is a testament to the incredible work we do as a team."

I paused, sweeping my gaze across the room. Some faces beamed with pride, others watched warily. I straightened my shoulders, chin lifted.

"But make no mistake—I've worked damn hard to get here, and I have no intention of slowing down now."

Appreciative chuckles rippled through the crowd, the tension in the room easing slightly. Emboldened, I continued, "In the coming months, I'll be spearheading our expansion into new markets. It won't be easy, but I know we have the talent and drive to make it happen. Who's with me?"

A chorus of cheers erupted, the energy in the room electric. As applause filled the air, I felt a surge of satisfaction. This, right here, was what I'd worked for. The pinnacle of success.

The memory fades as I drain the last of my coffee, the mug clinking against the marble countertop. I grab my briefcase, its leather cool and smooth in my grip. Another day, another chance to prove myself. To be the best.

The shrill ring of my phone shatters my confident reverie. I fish it out of my pocket, my stomach dropping as I see the caller ID. Mom. I take a deep breath before answering.

"Hi, Mom," I say, my tone softening despite myself.

"Aria, dear!" Her voice is warm yet tinged with reproach. "I was beginning to think you'd forgotten about your poor mother."

I lean against the wall, closing my eyes. "I've been busy, Mom. You know how it is."

"Too busy for family?" There is hurt in her voice, and guilt gnaws at my insides. "Speaking of which, the Chen family reunion is coming up next month. You're coming, right?"

I hesitate, my mind already racing with excuses. The merger, the deadlines, the—

"Aria?" Mom's voice sharpens. "You're not thinking of missing it, are you?"

"No, no," I say quickly. "Of course not. I'll be there."

"Good." The relief makes me wince. "Oh! Did I tell you? Your cousin Mei just got engaged. To a doctor, no less."

And there it is. The inevitable comparison. I grit my teeth, bracing for what's coming next.

"That's great for Mei," I say.

"It is, isn't it? Such a lovely couple." Mom takes on a wistful tone. "You know, I ran into Mrs. Liu at the market yesterday. Her son Jason is single too..."

I pinch the bridge of my nose. "Mom, please. I don't need you to set me up."

"I'm just saying, dear. You're not getting any younger. Don't you want what Mei has?"

Do I? The question catches me off guard. I think of my corner office, my growing list of accolades, the respect I've earned. But then I think of going home to an empty apartment, of having no one to share my triumphs with.

"I have to go, Mom," I say. "I'll call you later about the reunion."

I hang up, my chest tight with a mix of frustration and something else I can't quite name. Longing? Doubt?

Turning to the full-length mirror by my door, I stare at my reflection. Power suit perfectly pressed, not a hair out of place. The image of success. So why does it suddenly feel hollow?

For a moment, I see myself through my mother's eyes. Successful, yes, but alone. No partner to share my triumphs with, no one waiting for me at home.

Is this really all there is?

The thought terrifies me. I square my shoulders, meeting my own gaze in the mirror. No. This is everything I've worked for. Everything I want.

Isn't it?

I grab my briefcase, pushing aside the nagging doubts. There's no time for this. I have a company to run, deals to close. That's where my focus needs to be.

As I lock my apartment door, I take a deep breath. Time to face the world, Aria. You've got this.

The bustle of my favorite coffee shop envelops me as I push through the revolving door. The rich scent of freshly ground beans mingles with the sweet aroma of pastries, instantly soothing my frayed nerves. The line is mercifully short this morning, and I'm at the counter in no time.

"The usual, Ms. Chen?" Jake, the barista, greets me with a knowing smile.

"You know me too well, Jake," I reply, already fishing out my credit card.

As I wait for my double-shot espresso, I overhear the couple next to me.

"I can't wait to see you tonight, babe," the woman says. "I've missed you all week."

"Missed you more," her partner replies, leaning in for a quick kiss.

I feel a twinge in my chest, surprising in its intensity. When was the last time someone missed me like that? I push the thought away, focusing instead on my phone.

As I scroll through my emails, one subject line catches my eye. "Urgent: Potential Merger with Blackwood Technologies." My heart rate quickens. This could be it—the deal that propels me to the next level.

I open the email, scanning its contents eagerly. "Holy shit," I mutter under my breath. Blackwood Technologies is one of the fastest-growing tech startups in the country. A merger with them would be a game-changer.

"Your espresso, Ms. Chen," Jake calls out, snapping me back to reality.

"Thanks," I say, grabbing the cup. My mind is already racing, strategizing how to approach this merger. This is what I live for—the thrill of the deal, the chance to prove myself once again.

As I turn to leave, I catch sight of the couple again. They're walking out hand in hand, lost in their own world. For a split second, I wonder what that feels like. But then I remember the email waiting for me, and suddenly, nothing else matters.

I straighten my jacket and stride towards the exit, my pulse quickening with anticipation. I've got a merger to plan.

I'm about to push open the door when I hear a familiar voice behind me.

"Aria! What a surprise to see you here."

I turn to see Sarah from Marketing, her smile warm and inviting. I force myself to mirror her expression, even as my mind races with thoughts of the merger.

"Sarah, good morning," I reply, my tone clipped but cordial. "How's the new campaign coming along?"

Sarah's eyes light up. "Oh, it's going great! We've just finalized the concept and—"

"Excellent," I interject, not wanting to get bogged down in details. "Send me the brief by end of day, will you? I'd like to review it before our meeting tomorrow."

Sarah nods, her enthusiasm dimming slightly. "Of course, Aria. I'll have it on your desk by five."

I give her a curt nod and turn to leave. As I push open the door, my mind already shifting back to the merger, I collide with something solid. The impact sends my coffee flying, narrowly missing my crisp white blouse.

"Shit!" I exclaim, stumbling backward.

Strong hands steady me, and I find myself staring into the most striking blue eyes I've ever seen. The man attached to them is equally impressive—tall, with chiseled features and a concerned expression. My breath catches in my throat.

"I'm so sorry," he says. "Are you alright?"

For a moment, I'm speechless. Heat rises to my cheeks, and I feel a flutter in my stomach that has nothing to do with the near-miss with my coffee.

Get it together, Aria, I chide myself. You don't have time for this.

"I'm fine," I say briskly, stepping back from his touch. "No harm done."

He smiles, and I feel that flutter again. "Let me buy you another coffee to make up for it."

For a split second, I'm tempted. But my phone buzzes in my pocket, reminding me of the real world waiting outside this moment.

"That won't be necessary," I say, already turning away. "Have a good day."

As I hurry down the sidewalk, I can feel his eyes on me. I resist the urge to look back, instead focusing on the day ahead. I have a merger to plan, after all. There's no room for distractions, no matter how blue their eyes are.

I stride into the office, heels clicking purposefully against the polished floor. The familiar buzz of phones and chatter fills the air, but there's an undercurrent of excitement today. News of the potential Blackwood Technologies merger must have spread.

My assistant, Lisa, practically jumps up from her desk as I approach. Her auburn hair is slightly disheveled, and there's a smudge of ink on her cheek. She's been here a while.

"Good morning, Ms. Chen," she says, falling into step beside me. Her arms are laden with folders. "I have the quarterly reports ready for your review, and the marketing team sent over their latest projections for the merger."

"Excellent," I reply, taking the stack of folders she hands me. The weight of them is reassuring. This is what I'm good at. This is where I belong. "Any messages?"

Lisa rattles off a list as we walk to my office. I'm only half-listening, my mind already racing through the day's agenda.

"...and Mr. Tanaka from Tokyo called. He'd like to move up the conference call to discuss the Asian market expansion."

I stop short, turning to face her. "Today? That wasn't scheduled until next week."

Lisa nods, looking nervous. "He said it was urgent."

I take a deep breath, squaring my shoulders. This is what being at the top means—being ready for anything. "Alright, reschedule my 2 PM and fit him in. I want those projections on my desk within the hour."

"Of course, Ms. Chen."

As I settle behind my desk, I feel a thrill of excitement. This merger could be the key to breaking into the Asian market—a goal I've been working towards for years.

I'm deep in the reports when a glint of silver catches my eye. It's the frame of a family photo, tucked away in the corner of my desk. I pick it up, studying the faces of my parents and brother at last year's New Year celebration.

Mom's voice echoes in my head. "When are you going to slow down and start a family of your own, Aria?"

I set the photo down with a sigh. They don't understand. This career, this drive—it's not just about success. It's about proving I'm worthy of the sacrifices they made.

"I'll make you proud," I whisper to their smiling faces. Then I straighten my jacket and buzz Lisa.

"I'm ready for that conference call," I tell her, pushing away any lingering doubts. "Let's show Mr. Tanaka what we're made of."

Later in the day, after several meetings and phone calls, I'm about to head out for a quick bite when my phone vibrates against the desk. I glance down to see a text from Lucas. My brow furrows as I read.

"Hey sis, hate to ask but I'm in a tight spot. Any chance you could float me some cash? Promise I'll pay you back ASAP."

I feel a knot form in my stomach. This isn't the first time Lucas has come to me for money, and I doubt it'll be the last. I tap my manicured nails against the phone's screen, conflicted.

"Everything okay, Ms. Chen?" Lisa asks from the doorway, concern etched on her face.

I force a smile. "Fine, just a family matter." I type out a quick reply to Lucas. "We need to talk about this. Call me tonight."

As I set the phone down, I can't shake the weight of responsibility settling on my shoulders. I'm not just juggling my career anymore; I'm holding up my brother too. Part of me wants to lecture him about financial responsibility, but another part understands his struggle to find his footing in a world that values stability over creativity.

I stand up, smoothing down my blazer and adjusting my collar. The conference room awaits, and with it, the chance to secure this merger. I can't let personal matters distract me now.

"Time to shine," I mutter to myself, striding towards the door with purpose. Each click of my heels on the polished floor is a reminder of how far I've come, and how much further I need to go.

As I reach for the conference room handle, I take a deep breath. The merger, Lucas's financial troubles, my parents' expectations—they all swirl in my mind. But as I push open the door, I push those thoughts aside. Right now, I'm Aria Chen, marketing powerhouse. And I'm ready to conquer whatever challenges this room holds.