Love lies and a billionaire’s secret

CHAPTER SIXTY–ONE–THE EYE OF THE STORM

Nia rushed around her apartment, hastily buttoning her blouse as Mária called from the living room.

“Come on, Nia! We’re going to be late!”

“Just a sec!” Nia shouted back, grabbing her purse and keys. She dashed out of her bedroom to find Maria tapping her foot impatiently by the door.

“Finally,” Maria sighed. “You know how important this is for me.”

Nia nodded, following her friend out the door. “I know, I know. New job, big sale. I’m excited for you.”

As they hurried down the street, Maria chatted nervously about her upcoming first day. Nia listened, offering encouragement, but her mind wandered to her own workplace drama.

They arrived at the department store just as the doors were opening. Maria squeezed Nia’s hand. “Wish me luck!”

“You’ve got this,” Nia smiled, watching her friend disappear into the bustling store.

Turning to leave, Nia nearly collided with a man in a dark suit. “Oh, excuse me,” she mumbled, sidestepping him.

“Are you Nia Moreno?” the man asked, his voice low.

Nia froze, her heart racing. “Who’s asking?”

The man produced an envelope from his jacket. “I was asked to deliver this to you.”

Hesitantly, Nia accepted the envelope

“Who sent you?

“I’m just the messenger, ma’am,” he replied, tipping his hat before walking away.

Nia stared at the envelope, her name written in elegant script across the front. With trembling fingers, she opened it and unfolded the note inside.

‘Dear Nia,

I understand your need for space, and I respect that. But I can’t help how I feel about you. You’re unlike anyone I’ve evermet–strong, compassionate, and resilient. I hope we can stay in touch, even if just as friends.

Yours,

Justin‘

Nia’s breath caught in her throat. She quickly folded the note and shoved it into her purse, glancing around nervously. As she hailed a taxi to work, her mind raced with conflicting emotions.

Throughout the week, Justin’s presence lingered in her thoughts. On Tuesday, her phone buzzed with a

text:

“Remember when Leon and I built a treehouse as kids? I fell and broke my arm. Leon insisted on sleeping in the treehouse with me that night so I wouldn’t be alone. He’s always been the protective one.”

Nia smiled despite herself, imagining a young Justin and Leon. Another text arrived on Thursday.

“Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever step out of Leon’s shadow. But then I remember that shadows can’t exist without light. Maybe I’m just learning to shine in my own way.”

THE STORM

His vulnerability touched her, but she resisted the urge to respond

On Wednesday evening, Nia returned home exhausted from work. As she approached her apartment door, she nearly tripped over a small potted plant. A note was tucked between the leaves:

“Like this little guy, we’re all capable of growth and second chances. – J”

Nia brought the plant inside, placing it on her windowsill. Each morning, she found herself tending to it, her fingers lingering on the soft leaves as she watered it.

Friday afternoon, Nia hurried out of the office, scanning the street for an available taxi. She spotted one and quickened her pace, eager to start her weekend.

“Nia! Wait!”

She froze, recognizing Justin’s voice. Turning slowly, she saw him jogging towards her, his tie fluttering in the breeze.

*Justin, I really need to go,” Nia said, reaching for the taxi door.

“Please, just give me five minutes,” he pleaded, his eyes earnest. That’s all I’m asking.”

Nia hesitated, her hand on the door handle. The taxi driver glanced at them expectantly in the rearview

mirror,

“Fine,” she sighed, stepping away from the cab. “Five minutes.”

Justin nodded gratefully, leading her to a nearby bench. They sat, an awkward silerice stretching between them.

“Nia, I… I need to be honest with you, Justin began, his voice trembling slightly. “I’ve fallen in love with you.”

Nia’s eyes widened, but before she could speak, Justin continued.

“I know it’s complicated. I know there’s history with my family that I don’t fully understand. But I’ve never met anyone like you. You’re kind, you’re strong, and you make me want to be a better person.”

He paused, running a hand through his hair. “I’m not asking for anything from you. I just needed you to

know how I feel. And I want you to know that no matter what, I respect your choices. If you just want to.

be friends, I understand completely.”

Nia sat in stunted silence, her mind reeling. Justin’s openness and vulnerability caught her off guard. “Justin, I… I don’t know what to say,” she stammered. “This is all so complicated.”

He nodded, a sad smile on his face. “I know. And I’m sorry if I’ve made things more difficult for wasn’t my intention.”

you. That

Nia took a deep breath, trying to organize her thoughts. “I care about you, Justin. You’re a good man. But I need time to figure things out. My life is… complicated right now.”

“I understand,” Justin said softly. “Can we at least stay in touch? Maybe grab lunch next week, just as friends?”

Nia hesitated, then nodded. “Okay. Lunch as friends. I can do that.”

Relief washed over Justin’s face. “Thank you, Nia. That means a lot to me.”

As they stood to part ways, Justin hesitated for a moment before pulling Nia into a gentle hug. She stiffened at first, then relaxed, allowing herself to be comforted by his warmth.

“Take care, Nia,” Justin whispered before stepping back and walking away.

THEIVED THE STORM.

Nia watched him go, her emotions swirling. She hailed another taxi and climbed in, her mind racing as the city lights blurred past the window.

Monday morning arrived all too quickly. Nia had barely settled at her desk when her phone rang.

“Nia, could you come to my office please?” Leon’s voice crackled through the receiver.

Heart pounding, Nia made her way to the executive wing. She knocked softly on Leon’s door.

“Come in,” he called.

Nia entered to find Leon poring over a stack of documents. He looked up, a smile brightening his face.