Maddie sipped her morning coffee, staring out the window at the grey sky.Another day of working solo. She sighed, shaking off the loneliness.
Her day began like any other-editing footage, researching storylines and coordinating with her team.The documentary series on social justice was her passion project.
As she worked, Maddie's mind wandered to her son,Jake. She missed spending the day with him, watching him explore his childish imagination.
Just as she was lost in thought,her phone buzzed, Rachel's name flashed on the screen,
"Maddie,come to my office", Rachel's voice was firm.
Maddie's curiosity piqued,She made for her boss's office.
Maddie's boss, Rachel, called her into her office, her expression stern. "Maddie, Thompson Media Group wants to collaborate with us on our documentary series. I want you to meet their CEO, Alexander Thompson, at the charity gala tonight."
Maddie nodded, taking the ticket from Rachel.
Just as she was leaving, Sarah burst in. "Hey, what's going on?" Sarah asked.
"Rachel's sending me to meet Alex Thompson at the gala," Maddie replied.
Sarah's eyes widened. "The Alex Thompson? I've heard he's gorgeous."
Rachel's expression remained serious. "This is business, Maddie. Don't mess it up."
Sarah stood up. "I'll go with her, Rachel. You can't send her alone to face that shark."
Rachel hesitated before nodding. "Fine. You'll both attend. Keep the conversation professional."
At the gala, Maddie scanned the room for Alex Thompson. Sarah whispered, "There he is."
Maddie approached Alex, her notebook in hand. "Mr. Thompson, I'm Maddie from CityLights Television," she said.
Alex turned, his piercing Hazel eyes locking onto hers.
Just as Maddie began asking questions, Sarah interrupted. "Hey, Alex, what's the real reason behind TMG's interest in our documentary series?"
Alex's gaze shifted to Sarah, his expression unreadable. "I'm afraid that's confidential," he replied.
Maddie shot Sarah a warning glance. But Sarah continued, probing Alex with questions.
As they conversed, Maddie noticed something peculiar – Alex seemed familiar. But she couldn't quite place him.
---
Alex's POV
***********************************************
I stood at the Thompson Enterprises table, exchanging pleasantries with guests. My gaze wandered, scanning the room.
That's when I saw her –
Something stirred within me. A sense of recognition.
But I couldn't quite...
Maddie approached me, her notebook In hand.
As she asked questions, her colleague, Sarah, interrupted.
I felt a flicker of annoyance.
But Maddie's calm demeanor intrigued me.
Who was this woman?
And why did I feel like I'd seen her before?
---
Sarah's probing questions didn't faze Alex, but Maddie sensed a hint of irritation.
"Let's focus on the collaboration," Alex suggested, his voice smooth. "TMG wants to co-produce a documentary series with CityLights Television."
Maddie's interest piqued. "What kind of series?"
Alex leaned in. "We're interested in exploring social justice issues, particularly those affecting urban communities."
Sarah raised an eyebrow. "That's quite a departure from TMG's usual programming."
Alex nodded. "We're expanding our reach. CityLights' expertise in documentary storytelling would be invaluable."
Maddie scribbled notes. "What's the proposed budget and timeline?"
Alex handed her a folder. "Details are inside. We're willing to invest significantly."
Sarah scanned the documents. "This is a substantial offer. What's the catch?"
Alex's expression turned serious. "We want creative control."
Maddie's eyes met Sarah's. This was a red flag.
"We can't compromise on editorial control," Maddie stated.
Alex leaned back. "I understand your concerns. But TMG's involvement would provide resources and exposure CityLights needs."
Sarah intervened. "What's TMG's real motive? You're not known for philanthropy."
Alex's gaze locked onto Sarah's. "Let's just say we're... rebranding."
Maddie sensed there was more to it.
"What do you hope to achieve with this rebranding?" Maddie asked.
Alex's expression turned enigmatic. "That's for another discussion."
As they concluded the discussion, Alex's demeanor shifted.
"I think that's enough for tonight," he said abruptly, glancing at his watch. "You've got the proposal. Review it and get back to me."
Maddie felt a surge of annoyance at his sudden dismissal.
"Fine," she said, gathering her notes. "We'll be in touch."
Sarah, however, seemed unfazed. "Thanks, Alex. You're as charming as ever."
Alex's expression turned cold. "Goodnight, ladies."
As they walked away, Maddie whispered, "Well, that was rude."
Sarah grinned mischievously. "Oh, Alex just needs to be handled right."
Maddie raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
Sarah leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. "I mean, I've seen the way he looks at me. There's chemistry there."
Maddie's eyes widened. "Sarah, you can't be serious."
Sarah winked. "Dead serious. And I plan to explore it."
Maddie shook her head,
As they exited the gala, Maddie couldn't shake off the feeling that Alex's dismissal was more than just business.
Meanwhile, Alex watched them leave, his expression unreadable.
But his thoughts were clear:
*Maddie's sharp but Sarah's a wild card,I need to keep both of them in check*