Gabriel Monten, the silver-haired head of «Velara,» signaled to the specialists, who turned on the projector and displayed slides on the large screen. There was a light shuffle of chairs being rearranged, the rustle of papers. Melissa kept casting sidelong glances at Maryanne, trying to discern any trace of jealousy or anger. But Maryanne appeared calm, focused on the business, and only occasionally shot glances toward her husband filled with hidden reproach.
- Ladies and gentlemen, — Maryanne began, pointing a laser pointer at graphs and diagrams, — our project encompasses not only the construction of business centers but also a comprehensive infrastructure designed for long-term sustainability. We plan to create not just office spaces, but to develop surrounding areas with advanced recreational zones, shopping and entertainment complexes, and high-comfort residential neighborhoods.
Her words flowed confidently, clearly, professionally. Maryanne showered facts, figures, and plans as if this had been her lifelong calling. Robert sat, gripping the armrest, unable to believe that this modest girl he had once brought home to make a homemaker had evolved so dramatically in such a short time. He had always seen her as lacking ambition. In fact, he was used to viewing her as a quiet support system that bolstered a man without stepping into the spotlight. And now she held the position he had courted from international holdings.
When Maryanne’s presentation concluded, the room erupted in applause. But in that applause, Robert heard not only admiration but also sly curiosity. After all, everyone had seen the unpredictable and sharp intrigue brewing. Following the formal part, a lively discussion ensued: questions, answers, clarifications. Robert also tried to contribute amendments, suggest beneficial changes, reminding all that he was an experienced player in the real estate market. But every time he spoke, his gaze met Maryanne’s icy clarity, which threw off his composure. Melissa whispered hints to him, flipped through documents, but more often her presence seemed out of place. After all, international negotiations weren’t a social party, and the role of a mistress wasn’t accounted for here.
Once the hottest debates subsided and the main issues were addressed, everyone turned to coffee and light snacks. Many gravitated toward Maryanne, eager to personally express admiration or ask follow-up questions. Robert stayed aside. He understood that approaching his wife now would cause even more stir. But delaying and hiding was beneath his dignity, and he needed to find out how she had ended up here. Gathering courage, he resolutely headed toward her, leaving Melissa at the coffee table, where she struck up small talk with French-speaking colleagues.
Pulling Maryanne slightly aside, he spoke in a low voice:
- Explain what’s going on. Since when are you the international director of «Velara»? And why am I only finding out about it by seeing you at the head of the table in key negotiations?
She looked at him as if he were a barely acquainted person behaving too familiarly.
- Robert, you know perfectly well that after your company started growing, I had to find myself in something else. I pursued self-education, completed business courses, gained experience working at an investment firm. Back then, you considered it frivolous and a waste of time. I didn’t argue. I studied, did internships, built connections. And after a couple of years, I ended up on «Velara’s» staff. Yes, I had mentors, I won’t deny it. But I proved my competence to them.
- Mentors? — Robert barely restrained a flash of jealousy. — Who are these people? Maybe you have a lover on the side too?
- Stop it! — she said with disgust. — Don’t project your actions onto me. If you remember, we once vowed to be faithful to each other. But at some point, you vanished from my life and found comfort in outside affairs. I know about your «assistant» and what your business trips entail. Need me to remind you how embarrassed you were when I offered to accompany you?
Robert’s face flushed red. He was angry and felt as if he’d been caught red-handed, like a thief in his own store. But who had told her about Melissa? Probably the whole city was discussing their relationship. And he had been too arrogant to hide it. He thought his wife had simply resigned herself and would endure as before. Turned out, no. Still, he tried to soften his tone:
- You should have told me you hold such a position. We’re family, after all.
Maryanne smirked. The word «family» sounded like mockery to her.
- Family? Do you remember the last time we had a heart-to-heart or dined together, not to mention anything more? My appointment was «Velara’s» board decision. And if I’d told you beforehand, you’d surely have tried to sabotage me. I didn’t want your «help,» which boils down to locking me at home or dragging me to another reception where everyone whispers behind my back. Or publicly humiliating me with «friendly» jokes about «she’s simple, from the countryside.»
- I never said that! — Robert protested indignantly.
- But you thought it, — she cut him off. — And it doesn’t matter if you said it aloud. I felt it all. I hoped you’d change. But now there’s no point in dreams. We must lead this project together, but as equals. Otherwise, it won’t happen.
- Are you threatening me?
- I’m setting conditions for you, Robert. It’s up to you: agree or miss the opportunity. By the way, don’t think about discrediting me before the board—they won’t believe slander; they’ve vetted all my merits and reputation thoroughly.