"Natasha, what is your perspective on this?" Another reporter asked when it seemed the young heir wasn't saying anything in response.
"I never hinted that at all. We indeed settled amicably. The CEO of Evolve agreed for Tira to launch our newest jewellery collection, ARA," Natasha announced calmly, to the amazement of everyone.
"Dear Lord... Tira, the international glamour girl?"
There wasn't a person who didn't know Tira. She was a successful supermodel without any agency affiliation, yet she dominated the runway.
"Is this true, Laura?" The reporters asked, switching to the bright eyed spectator immediately. The majority of them were left speechless. They had not expected this terrifying twist.
Laura, who had waited patiently for this moment, clicked her fingers as Tira walked majestically into the hall. The reporters couldn't hold themselves as cameras flashed from all angles.
Rita was wide-eyed. What was happening? Wasn't this supposed to be the downfall of Alpha and the rise of Rita Wills?
"Please Evolve will always continue business with Alpha. We have no issues at all." Laura stated with a smile. Her statement left the reporters in a state of shock.This was a terrifying face-slap.
To their amazement, Tira proceeded to shake hands with Natasha. Rita suddenly felt small and stupid. At that moment, Laura exchanged looks with her. She panicked, shifting her foot nervously.
"Rita will no longer be a singer and model under Evolve. She has accepted PM's offer and we wish her a happy transition," Laura stated with a wink.
Rita fumed as the tears threatened to fall. This was supposed to be her last card. How did things turn against her so quickly? Who was the one scheming behind her back?
She looked at Melissa. The faithful lady turned her face in embarrassment. Rita bent her head in shame. She had failed to give them a future.
In reality, she had not officially accepted PM's offer, but she had dined with the CEO occasionally to prove that she was indeed going to switch sides. Rita didn't want to go to PM. It was only a means to threaten her Boss.
To begin with, she didn't know when Tira signed under Evolve. Worst of all, she was going to launch the Jewellery collection, ARA. That was supposed to be her contract! "PM, you've dug my grave."
What was that nonsense she said earlier about Alpha being in shambles after this? Wasn't she stupidly overestimating her capabilities? It was clear who was ruined.
After the press conference, as they walked back into the office. Rita ran after Laura in mock diligence.
"I was wrong. I didn't want to sign with PM. He kept pestering me that he would release my nudes if I didn't do so," she pleaded.
"Did you ask for my help? Instead, you decided to threaten me? What did he offer you? More Awards? Money? Tell me, you ungrateful pig," Laura spat and walked out.
"I was really wrong... I was really wrong. Laura!," Rita cried after her.
"Please put my dressing room in order before you leave. The cleaners aren't here to wipe your mess," Laura replied, before disappearing out of sight.
"Do you need some escort to your new agency?" Ruth asked as they walked past. Natasha giggled.
Rita couldn't offer any comeback in response. It was clear she was doomed. However, as she watched them board the black Maybach, determination welled up in her eyes.
"It's not over for you, Alpha," she muttered.
***
As soon as Natasha settled down, her phone buzzed as if on cue. She blushed, a thousand shades when she saw the caller.
"Congratulations, Love," Kingsley enthused.
"Did you watch it?" She asked in excitement.
"Yes, I managed to, in between customers."
Giggles. A Chuckle at the other end. More giggles.
"What's the treat tonight? Aren't we celebrating my win?" Natasha asked with delight.
Kingsley cleared his throat with enthusiasm.
"We should. I would like you to meet mum if you're free. She says it's been a while since she last saw your pretty face"
"That'll be splendid. I'll come straight after work."
"I can't wait. I love you to the moon and back"
"That's so cheesy but I love you too"
He laughed. She laughed more. They ended the call.
"Lover boy?" Williams asked with raised brows wiping off the smile from her face immediately.
"It wouldn't hurt if you mind your business." She drawled.
"Seriously, Natasha. Give me the chance to prove to you that I am man enough..." He stood, spreading his arms for emphasis.
"I am just not interested," she hissed.
"What does he do for you, anyway?" He leaned close.
"I bet the chairman didn't put you on probation so you can ask useless questions," she countered.
"He wouldn't mind if I courted you alongside" He winked
"..."
Your brilliance and my competence complement each other perfectly. With it, we would be at the top" He continued cheerily.
"We already are. You're just too blind to see it."
"Don't be fooled because you signed Tira. We still have Standard, Dove, Thrift and Harn... We can't compete with those brands on some levels."
"That's why you should concentrate on your work and stop blabbing"
"Congratulations on your achievement today, darling" He placed a package on the table, wrapped with gold foil.
She eyed it with disinterest.
"Williams... are you always foolish?"
"...."
Picking her bag, she stormed out of the office. It would be great if she worked from home instead. What was she doing listening to this loafer, anyway?