He stepped into the conference room, radiating confidence and the anticipation of an easy victory. The large glass doors slid smoothly aside, allowing him and his companion—a slender brunette in an elegant yet slightly provocative dress—to enter. Even before crossing the threshold, Robert Hayes—a well-known millionaire in business circles, owner of a major real estate company—was certain that a smile, a firm handshake or two, and his captivating speech would charm the partners effortlessly.
But everything crumbled in an instant when he saw who was seated at the head of the table. It was his wife. Hayes froze as if he’d slammed into an invisible wall. His jaw dropped involuntarily, and the hand holding the folder of documents trembled slightly. Time seemed to stand still. Right in front of him, dressed in a sharp pantsuit, with impeccable hair and a steady gaze, sat the woman he had honestly been avoiding in high society.
The woman whose humble background had embarrassed him, whose presence he deemed inappropriate in his luxurious lifestyle. The very wife he had once married for love, but whom he later began to distance himself from as soon as his fortune grew substantial. And now, here she was, occupying the leadership position in these crucial negotiations.
- Maryanne? — he whispered, unable to believe his eyes.
She merely raised an eyebrow, looking at him without a hint of embarrassment, displaying complete professional detachment. Beside her sat the people he had expected: partners from the international project, experts, financial analysts. They exchanged glances, not fully grasping what was unfolding. Only a few, including the head of the international corporation «Velara»—a tall, silver-haired man named Gabriel Monten—shared meaningful looks, realizing they were about to witness quite the drama. The brunette whom Robert had brought as his assistant literally felt the tension in the air thicken.
Her name was Melissa. She was a bold, self-assured woman, accustomed to her beauty and charisma opening any doors. But now, facing Maryanne’s direct gaze, she felt uncomfortable. And even a bit guilty. After all, if this was Hayes’ wife, why hadn’t he mentioned a word about her capability to appear at negotiations, let alone as the director?
- Please, everyone, come in and take your seats, — Maryanne said calmly.
Her voice was even and professional, but Robert caught familiar notes of resentment and cold determination in it. The room filled with a quiet murmur. Partners, managers, interpreters—all watched this clash of stares, unsure whether to smile awkwardly or wait for the events to unfold like in a dramatic series. Some anticipated a massive argument with raised voices. Others thought the director and businessman would handle everything maximally formally. However, the silence dragged on. Robert took a deep breath, trying to steady his breathing. His pride and self-assurance—qualities that had always helped seal deals—turned into chills and heat simultaneously. He stepped toward the long mahogany table, circled it, and sat in his place. Melissa settled next to him, projecting her importance with every gesture.
Under her gaze, the glances became even more intense. Some personal assistants and secretaries evidently realized she wasn’t just an assistant and that the situation promised plenty of gossip. Maryanne’s voice rang out like steel:
- Thank you all for coming. First, let me introduce myself: I am Maryanne Hayes. I’ve recently been appointed as the international project director for «Velara,» and accordingly, I’ll be managing the new joint venture for building a network of business centers across the United States. Thank you for being here, ladies and gentlemen.
Robert nearly dropped his pen upon hearing those words. So now Maryanne—the one whose opinion was decisive in his potentially massive deal. Meanwhile, he himself had aimed to take leading positions in this project, counting on colossal profits and expanded influence. But circumstances had ironically turned against him. Just three days ago, he had learned that one of the key investors planned to replace their representative. And it turned out to be his own wife, whom he had considered too ordinary for elite circles.
- Maryanne, — Robert decided to go on the offensive, trying to compose himself, — we have a lot to discuss. I think it’s wiser to get straight to the point to not waste the respected partners’ time.
She ran her fingertips along the edge of the table, giving herself a few seconds to decide on her approach. Once, Maryanne had been quiet, gentle, and incredibly caring. She prepared breakfasts for him, managed the household, volunteered at a children’s shelter. She was expected to be submissive and uncomplaining. But years of patience had passed. And now, before everyone, stood a completely different person—strong, independent, and capable of meeting challenges head-on.
- Of course, — she nodded, averting her gaze from Robert. — We have a detailed plan: development, investments, market entry prospects, technical aspects. Please, take your seats and prepare for the presentation. I’ll be leading the discussion.