Chapter 8

A week after their trip to Thailand, Zaviya stood in front of a room full of investors. The sleek, futuristic-looking device beside her, the Quantum X-5, commanded attention, its cutting-edge design a perfect fit for the scene. The room was filled with a buzz of excitement and expectation as the investors, dressed in their finest formal business attire, waited for her to begin.

With a confident smile, Zaviya addressed the room, her voice steady and poised. "Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining us today. I'm thrilled to introduce our latest innovation at Zavitech Industry: the Quantum X-5."

She gestured towards the device, and with the press of a button, a large screen behind her lit up, displaying the Quantum X-5 in action. It was nothing short of impressive.

"The Quantum X-5 is a groundbreaking leap in technology," Zaviya continued, her tone conveying her excitement. "Utilizing advanced quantum computing, it can process data at unprecedented speeds, enabling real-time analytics and decision-making for businesses across all sectors."

The investors leaned forward, clearly intrigued by the promise of such a powerful tool. Zaviya clicked a button on a remote, and the screen now displayed detailed graphs and animations of the Quantum X-5’s capabilities.

"With its integrated AI, the Quantum X-5 not only processes data but learns from it, continuously improving its efficiency," Zaviya explained, the pride in her voice evident. "It's designed to handle the most complex computations effortlessly, making it an invaluable asset for any forward-thinking company."

The screen now showed various applications: from finance to healthcare, showcasing the device’s versatility. The investors were hooked. They murmured among themselves, their interest piqued.

Investor 1, leaning forward in his seat, spoke up. "This is impressive. How soon can we see a return on investment?"

Zaviya gave a confident nod. "We've already conducted extensive beta testing with select partners. The results are promising, with significant improvements in operational efficiency and cost reductions within the first quarter of implementation."

The room buzzed with approval, and the investors exchanged glances, their confidence growing.

Investor 2, a woman with sharp glasses and a professional demeanor, asked, "What kind of support does Zavitech offer post-purchase?"

"We provide comprehensive support," Zaviya replied without hesitation. "That includes 24/7 customer service, regular software updates, and on-site training for your teams to ensure seamless integration and maximum utilization."

Satisfied with her answers, the investors nodded in agreement. Just then, Investor 3, a man with salt-and-pepper hair, stood up. "Ms. Porsild, we're ready to move forward with a partnership. This technology is exactly what we've been looking for."

Zaviya smiled, her eyes gleaming with the satisfaction of a deal well done. "Thank you. We're excited to embark on this journey with you."

Applause erupted in the room as Zaviya and the investors shook hands, sealing the partnership. It was a moment of triumph for Zavitech, and Zaviya felt the weight of the achievement settle over her like a warm blanket.

Once the presentation ended, Zaviya entered her spacious, modern office. She closed the door behind her, taking a deep breath, the confident front she had been wearing all morning softening just a bit. She walked to her desk, where her secretary had left a cup of coffee. She sat down, savoring the brief silence before the next wave of responsibilities came crashing in.

"One step closer," Zaviya muttered to herself, taking a sip from the cup. Her eyes wandered to the window, taking in the sprawling city skyline below. The phone on her desk buzzed, snapping her out of her thoughts. She picked it up, a smile tugging at her lips as she read the congratulatory message from her team.

Leaning back in her chair, Zaviya allowed herself a moment of satisfaction. She knew this was just the beginning, but she was ready for whatever came next.

Before lunch, she sat at her desk, flipping through a stack of documents. She was lost in her work when the soft knock on her door interrupted her.

"Ms. Porsild, just a reminder, you have a lunch date with Ms. Dee today. After that, you're both scheduled to visit a prestigious designer for your engagement party outfits," Jane, her secretary, said cheerfully.

Zaviya sighed, rolling her eyes slightly. "Thanks, Jane. I almost forgot." She muttered to herself, "Lunch with Alastair... great."

As Jane left, Zaviya returned to her work, but her thoughts began to drift. The impending lunch date lingered in her mind, and she couldn't help but think of Alastair.

The trip to Thailand had been… surprisingly pleasant, despite the rivalry that had defined much of their relationship. Alastair, of course, had been insufferable at times, as usual, but there had been moments—moments when Zaviya caught herself almost enjoying her company. They had spent time together, getting to know each other in a way that was different from the usual bickering and teasing. Zaviya hadn’t expected it to be so... tolerable, and perhaps even a little fun.

It's been a week since their trip to Thailand, and surprisingly, Alastair hasn't bugged her once since they got back. For someone who's been a constant thorn in her side since elementary school, for Zaviya, her sudden absence feels... strange. Not that she miss Alastair's annoying comments or the way she smirks when she thinks she's won an argument, but there's a certain... silence now.

Since they returned, though, Alastair's been distant. No teasing texts, no unexpected visits, no sarcastic remarks. She should be relieved, but instead, Zaviya feels... off-balance. It's like she's waiting for the other shoe to drop. Has Alastair finally gotten tired of their endless bickering, or is this just the calm before another storm?

Zaviya can’t help but think about Alastair differently now. The way she looked genuinely happy when Zaviya let her guard down and laughed at her jokes, the soft tone in Alastair's voice when she talked about the places they visited. It’s confusing. Part of Zaviya wonders if there’s more to Alastair than the arrogant facade she puts up.

But then Zaviya remind herself that this is Alastair Michelle Dee, the same person who’s been a constant source of irritation for as long as she can remember. Maybe this break from her antics is exactly what she needed. Maybe she’s just busy with work or has found another way to amuse herself. Either way, Zaviya determined not to let her guard down. Their parents might want them to be together, but that doesn’t mean she have to fall for Alastair's tricks.

Still, as she sit here, staring at  the papers, she can’t help but wonder what Alastair's up to and why she’s suddenly gone silent.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Straightening her dress, Zaviya walked over and opened it, her breath catching in her throat. There stood Alastair, looking annoyingly beautifully handsome in a crisp white shirt and tailored pants, her hair perfectly styled.

“Ready for our lunch date?” Alastair asked, her signature grin in place—the same one that both annoyed and intrigued Zaviya in equal measure.

Zaviya took a moment, staring at her, trying to mask her reaction. "You clean up well, Alastair," she finally said, her tone a mix of surprise and grudging admiration.

"Only for you, Zaviya." Alastair's smile was laced with mischief, making Zaviya’s heart skip a beat despite herself.

Zaviya rolled her eyes but couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at her lips. “Why do I get the feeling you’re enjoying this a bit too much, Alastair?”

Alastair shrugged, her grin widening. “Just following orders. Shall we?”

Zaviya forced a smile, trying to push back the uneasy feeling in her chest. “Yes, let’s get this over with,” she muttered, stepping out and closing the door behind her.

As they walked toward the elevator, side by side, Zaviya couldn’t shake the feeling that maybe, just maybe, this forced arrangement wasn’t going to be as unbearable as she had initially thought.

They stepped outside the building, with Alastair leading the way toward her car. The air was fresh, but the weight of their agreement was always there, hovering between them. Their destination? A French restaurant, cozy and elegant, with soft lighting and classical music playing in the background.

Zaviya, still processing the turn of events, raised an eyebrow as they sat down at their table. “My favorite restaurant? How did you know?”

Alastair grinned, clearly enjoying the moment. “Your secretary booked it. I just went along with the plan.”

Zaviya smirked, a hint of warmth creeping into her demeanor despite herself. “Well, at least someone is making an effort.”

“Don’t get used to it,” Alastair shot back, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “Just making the best of our... arrangement.”

“So, two more weeks until the big day,” Zaviya continued, trying to keep her tone light, though the tension was palpable. “How are you feeling about it?”

Alastair leaned back, the smirk never leaving her face. “Thrilled, of course. Can’t wait to marry my childhood rival.”

Zaviya rolled her eyes, resisting the urge to lash out at the teasing. “Just remember, this is all for the inheritance and to save our businesses.”

Alastair’s grin widened. “Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten our little pact. Two years, then we’re free.”

She pulled out a chair for Zaviya, the gesture almost too polite for their usual dynamic. As they sat down, a waiter approached, handing them menus. The atmosphere was light, filled with the hum of quiet conversations and the clinking of cutlery. A subtle moment of normalcy in the midst of their chaos.

“Are you ready to order?” the waiter asked politely.

Zaviya glanced up with a smile. “Yes, I’ll have the Coq au Vin, please.”

Alastair didn’t even hesitate. “I’ll take the Ratatouille. And a bottle of your finest Chardonnay.”

“Certainly. I’ll be right back with your drinks,” the waiter said before walking away.

As soon as the waiter was out of earshot, Alastair turned her attention back to Zaviya, a mischievous glint dancing in her eyes. “So, Miss Porsild, did you miss me?”

Zaviya raised an eyebrow, playing along with the banter even though it irritated her. “Miss you? Why would I miss someone who annoys me every chance they get?”

Leaning forward, Alastair’s smirk deepened. “Admit it, Zavi. You missed my charming presence. You’ve been wondering where I was all week, haven’t you?”

Zaviya crossed her arms, giving her a pointed look. “Please, Alastair. Don’t flatter yourself. I was just enjoying the peace and quiet.”

Alastair chuckled, clearly enjoying the back-and-forth. “You know, you’re a terrible liar. Your face says otherwise.”

Zaviya rolled her eyes, giving in just slightly. “Alright, fine. What were you up to? I have to admit, it was suspiciously calm without you around.”

Feigning shock, Alastair leaned back in her chair. “Suspiciously calm? Are you saying my presence adds excitement to your life?”

Zaviya smirked, playing her part. “Yes, if by excitement you mean constant irritation.”

Laughing, Alastair took a moment to compose herself before responding. “You wound me, Zavi. Anyway, if you must know, I was in Davao for a conference. Didn’t have time to bug you, though. Was busy with meetings and networking.”

Zaviya raised an eyebrow, her tone still cool. “A conference, huh? That explains why my phone wasn’t constantly buzzing with your annoying texts.”

Grinning, Alastair leaned in closer. “See? You did miss me. I knew it.”

Zaviya smirked. “Missed you? Hardly. But I did find it odd not having someone to argue with.”

“Well, I’m back now,” Alastair said sincerely, though the playful tone didn’t quite leave her voice. “So, brace yourself for more teasing and banter.”

Zaviya’s smirk returned, her eyes glinting. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Just then, the waiter returned with their drinks and set them on the table.

“Your Chardonnay, ladies,” the waiter announced.

“Thank you,” Alastair said with a grin.

The waiter left, and Alastair raised her glass. “To more arguments and banter, and to keeping life interesting.”

Zaviya raised her glass in agreement, a genuine smile tugging at her lips despite herself. “I’ll drink to that.”

They clinked glasses, sharing a moment of connection amidst their usual teasing.

A little later, their food arrived, and as they ate, the familiar routine of sarcastic remarks and subtle jabs flowed effortlessly between them. It was a dance they had performed countless times before, and yet it never felt quite the same.

“So, how’s business?” Zaviya asked, her voice laced with challenge. “Still struggling to keep up with mine?”

Alastair laughed, her eyes glinting with confidence. “As if. Just trying to keep things interesting. Wouldn’t want you to get bored.”

After lunch, Alastair and Zaviya made their way to an exclusive boutique, one of the most high-end stores in town. The moment they stepped through the door, the staff greeted them with beaming smiles. The warmth in their voices was palpable, their eyes lighting up as they looked at the attractive couple standing before them.

“Welcome, Ms. Dee, Ms. Porsild. We’ve been expecting you,” one of the boutique staff members said, her voice brimming with enthusiasm.

They were led to a private area, away from the prying eyes of other customers, where they could discuss their preferences for the outfits they would wear. A second staff member, clearly taken by the sight of the two women, couldn’t resist offering a compliment.

“You both look absolutely stunning together. What a perfect couple!” she said, her admiration almost tangible.

Zaviya smiled politely, though there was a flicker of discomfort behind her eyes. “Thank you,” she responded smoothly, her voice polite but distant. “We’re here to choose our engagement outfits.”

Alastair, on the other hand, was a bit more relaxed. “We were thinking something in a wine color for the theme,” she said, her gaze flicking toward Zaviya with a grin.

The designer, clearly thrilled by the couple’s choices, exclaimed with excitement, “Ohh, you’re both in the right place! We are so excited to work with you!”

Zaviya’s smile remained, though it was slightly forced. “Thank you,” she said, nodding along.

Alastair’s grin widened. “Let’s get started,” she said with a playful tone, eager to begin the process.

The staff, eager to impress, showed them a range of designs. Zaviya carefully selected a sleek, elegant dress, the lines of which made her look every bit the image of a sophisticated future bride. Alastair, not to be outdone, chose a matching suit that would complement Zaviya's dress perfectly. After a brief period of trying on the outfits, they emerged from the fitting rooms, and the boutique staff couldn’t help but gush over how well the two women looked together.

“You two are going to steal the show at your engagement party,” one of the staff members said with admiration.

Alastair flashed a charming smile. “That’s the plan,” she said, her voice light but with a hint of seriousness behind it.

The designer, who had been silently admiring them the whole time, added, “You two are such a lovely couple. The wine color will look perfect on you.”

Zaviya smiled politely, her demeanor still composed. “Thank you. We hope it will,” she said, her voice carrying a quiet but deliberate edge.

Once the fitting was over, Alastair drove Zaviya home. However, on the way, something unexpected happened. Alastair suddenly pulled the car over in front of a park, its grass green and lively with children running around, their laughter filling the air. Zaviya raised an eyebrow, confused.

“Why are we stopping here?” she asked, her tone curious but somewhat impatient.

Alastair, ever the spontaneous one, simply responded, “I thought we could use a break. Come on.”

They walked to a nearby vendor and bought dirty ice cream, a treat that reminded them both of simpler times. Sitting on a bench, they enjoyed their ice cream while watching the children play, their carefree laughter a stark contrast to the tension that often hung between the two women.

“This is surprisingly nice,” Zaviya said, her lips curling into a smile as she licked her ice cream, the moment of peace washing over her.

Alastair nodded in agreement, enjoying the calm that the park provided. “Sometimes it’s good to take a step back and enjoy the simple things,” she said, her tone thoughtful.

Zaviya, however, was quick to shift back to the matter at hand. “About our plan… we need to stick to it. Two years, then we file for divorce,” she said, her voice serious and calculated.

Alastair nodded, understanding the gravity of their arrangement. “Agreed. Just keep playing the part until then,” she replied, her tone more relaxed but just as determined.

Zaviya sighed, her gaze flicking over the children at play. “About the engagement party… we need to stay focused on the plan. No one can know this is just an arrangement,” she said, the weight of the situation pressing on her.

Alastair gave her a reassuring look. “Agreed. We keep up appearances for two years, then we go our separate ways,” she said firmly.

Zaviya couldn’t help but smile slightly, the faintest trace of amusement crossing her features. “It’s almost like we’re back in school, plotting and scheming,” she said with a hint of nostalgia in her voice.

Alastair laughed, the sound light and carefree. “Some things never change,” she said, her tone teasing.

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying their ice cream and the peaceful atmosphere around them. After a moment, Alastair glanced over at Zaviya, her expression a little softer than usual.

“You know, this might not be as bad as we thought,” she said, her words a little more honest than she expected.

Zaviya smirked, her lips curling in a playful but guarded expression. “Don’t get any ideas, Alastair. This is purely business,” she replied, a glint of warning in her eyes.

Alastair chuckled, clearly amused. “Of course, purely business,” she said, her voice light but with a hint of fondness.

They finished their ice cream, stood up, and made their way back to the car, ready to face their future together, for now.

“We should get going,” Alastair said as they approached the car. “You have your girls' night at Khali’s.”

Zaviya sighed but nodded. “Yeah, I guess. Thanks for today, Alastair,” she said, her tone softening just a little.

“Anytime,” Alastair replied, starting the car with a grin. “Let’s go.”

Twenty minutes later, Alastair’s car pulled up in front of Khali’s house. Zaviya stepped out, waving at Alastair as she drove off.

“Drive safe, okay?” Zaviya called out.

“Always do. Enjoy your night with the girls,” Alastair replied, her voice carrying a note of teasing.

Zaviya waved as Alastair drove off, then turned and walked toward the front door of the house. She rang the doorbell, and the door swung open almost immediately to reveal Khali, who pulled her into a hug, the warmth of their friendship immediately surrounding her.

“Zaviya! Finally, you’re here!” Khali exclaimed, her voice full of excitement.

Zaviya walked in and was immediately greeted by her girlfriends: Khali, Yevhen, Cass, Violet, Oliana, and Reika. The air was filled with cheerful chatter as they all gathered around her, cheering and hugging her warmly.

“Zaviya! How was your date with Alastair?” Yevhen asked, a teasing smile on her face.

Zaviya rolled her eyes, her tone playful but exasperated. “It wasn’t a date,” she said, sighing. “We just did something for the engagement, and now she just dropped me off.”

Cass, ever the tease, grinned and asked, “Sure, sure. But what about your three-day trip to Thailand last week? Spill the details!”

Zaviya's POV:

As I sit here at Khali's house, surrounded by friends and the warmth of our girls' sleepover, my mind drifts back to last week's whirlwind trip to Thailand with Alastair. It was a journey I hadn't anticipated, filled with moments that challenged my expectations and my guarded heart.

I remember the trip vividly. It was supposed to be our first date, a gift from our parents who still think we’re the perfect match despite our endless rivalry. The moment she rang my doorbell at 5:30 AM, I knew it was going to be a long day. Her smug face as she watched me struggle with my four suitcases was infuriating. “You pack like you’re moving countries, not just visiting one,” she teased, effortlessly lifting my bags as if they weighed nothing.

The airport incident was even more annoying. An elderly couple mistook us for newlyweds, and instead of correcting them, Alastair played along, flashing them her charming smile. I could have throttled her right then and there, but I held my tongue, not wanting to create a scene. On the plane, she switched seats with a passenger just so I could have the window seat. I was surprised by the gesture, but of course, she had to ruin it with a sarcastic comment about how she’s always so considerate.

Thailand itself was beautiful, and despite my best efforts, I found myself enjoying some moments. The hotel penthouse was luxurious, the kind of place you see in magazines. We had a tour guide and a driver, courtesy of our parents, which meant I didn’t have to interact with Alastair more than necessary. Yet, every now and then, she would do something unexpectedly kind, like making sure I had enough water during our hikes or insisting on carrying the heavier shopping bags.

But it wasn’t all bad. There were moments, rare and fleeting, where we got along. Like when we laughed at a street performer’s antics or when we shared a quiet dinner overlooking the beach. For a few brief seconds, it felt like we were just two people enjoying a trip, not lifelong rivals forced into an absurd situation.

On our first day, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant colors of the Dessert Museum, indulging in sweet treats that mirrored the unexpected sweetness of our budding companionship. Nightfall found us amidst the bustling energy of Bangkok's Night Market, sampling street foods that tantalized my senses and sparked conversations that lingered far into the night.

The second day unfolded in a more serene fashion as we visited ancient temples and soaked in the breathtaking beauty of Thailand's landscapes. Yet, as day gave way to night, we found ourselves in a lively bar, where unwanted attention escalated into discomfort. It was then that Alastair's protective instincts shone through, his presence a shield against unwelcome advances, igniting a strange mix of gratitude and vulnerability within me.

Our final day in Thailand transported us to Phuket's pristine shores, where the azure waters beckoned us to adventure. Together, we jet-skied across the waves, explored underwater wonders through snorkeling, and soared above it all in parasailing bliss. The day culminated in a private dinner aboard a yacht, where laughter and shared stories wove a tapestry of connection between us. Underneath a moonlit sky, we danced—a moment suspended in time, where uncertainties momentarily faded into the background.

Before bidding farewell to Thailand, we partook in the Loy Krathong festival, our wishes and hopes floating serenely upon the water's surface—a symbolic gesture of what our time together had come to mean.

As the morning sun ushered us back to reality and Philippine soil, I couldn't deny the lingering traces of warmth that Alastair had ignited within me. Our journey had been unexpected, challenging, and strangely intimate—a testament to the unpredictability of fate and the complexities of the heart.

(end of pov)

Zaviya was lost in her memories, her gaze distant, a dreamy look softening her features. Her friends, ever observant, couldn’t help but notice the change in her.

Cass leaned in, her voice barely a whisper as she nudged the others. “Look at her! Spacing out and all dreamy-eyed.”

Reika, ever the one to poke fun, raised an eyebrow. “Zaviya? Earth to Zaviya!”

Snapping out of her thoughts, Zaviya blinked rapidly, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Oh, sorry! I was just reminiscing.”

Oliana smirked, clearly enjoying the moment. “What did Alastair do to you in Thailand, huh?”

Zaviya quickly shook her head, brushing off the teasing. “Nothing! We just had a nice trip, that’s all.”

But Oliana wasn’t buying it, her eyes narrowing playfully. “You looked so happy just now. So, how was the trip?”

Zaviya hesitated, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she recalled the details. “It was... surprisingly nice. Alastair and I actually got along.”

Violet, always ready to turn a moment into a teasing opportunity, leaned in with a smirk. “Sounds like someone’s falling for their fake fiancé.”

Zaviya’s face flushed, and she immediately waved her hands in denial. “No, no. It’s not like that. We’re just playing along to get our inheritance and save our businesses. That’s all.”

Violet raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a mischievous grin. “Uh-huh, sure. Spill the details, Zaviya. We want to know everything!”

Zaviya sighed dramatically, but her smile betrayed her, and she couldn’t help but indulge them. She leaned back, taking a deep breath as she began to recount their time together. “Okay, okay. Our first day, we went to this dessert museum, then wandered the Bangkok night market. On the second day, we visited temples and some amazing scenic spots. That night, we hit a bar, and... well, I was harassed by these two guys, but Alastair came to my rescue.”

Reika grinned, clearly amused. “A knight in shining armor, huh?”

Zaviya rolled her eyes, though the fondness in her tone was evident. “Something like that. On our last day, we went to Phuket. We did all sorts of water activities, then had a romantic dinner on a yacht. We danced under the moonlight and participated in Loy Kratong.”

Khali, always eager to know more, sat up a little straighter. “Wow, that sounds amazing! But what about today? You two had lunch, right?”

Zaviya nodded, her smile widening at the thought of the meal. “Yeah, we went to this fancy French restaurant. After that, we went for our suit and dress fitting. Our theme is wine color. The dresses and suits are going to look stunning.”

Oliana clapped her hands, practically bouncing in her seat. “I can’t wait to see you both! You’re going to look so dashing together.”

Zaviya sighed, feeling the weight of the situation settle in. “It’s just for the engagement.”

Reika’s teasing voice cut through the air. “Sure, just for the engagement.”

The night wore on, filled with drinks, laughter, and a Netflix marathon. The girls sprawled out on big foam cushions and fluffy pillows in Khali's room, their voices mingling in the air as the evening passed into the early hours.

Khali stretched, a yawn escaping her lips. “This was a great night, girls. We should do this more often.”

Zaviya, her eyes still bright from the fun they’d shared, smiled. “Definitely.”

As the clock ticked past 2 AM, one by one, they began to drift into sleep, their bodies curling up in the soft, warm space they had created together. Zaviya, however, lay awake for a moment, her thoughts returning to the impending engagement. She whispered to herself, the words almost lost in the quiet hum of her friends’ soft breathing.

“What have we gotten ourselves into, Alastair? Two years... Let's hope we can keep up the act.”

She closed her eyes, the weight of the situation pressing gently on her, but there was something more—an unspoken promise, a quiet resolve that rose within her.

“Two years... we can do this.”

The room fell silent, save for the rhythmic sound of breathing, as Zaviya joined her friends in the peaceful stillness of the night.

---------------------Update. ❤️❤️

Who's excited for mommy's crown turnover later??

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