Chapter 2

Isabella sat in her spacious office, sipping her coffee while engrossed in a conversation with a charismatic young man named Ruben, a big heir to Oscorp, a giant in the corporate world. With his ruffled hair, designer suit, and a grin that seemed forever in place, it was obvious that Ruben had all the characteristics of a playboy.

He leaned casually against her desk, exuding a professional charm that was hard to ignore. "Isabella," Ruben said, "I've heard great things about your leadership in the business world. They say you're a visionary, a true CEO." Isabella raised an eyebrow, appreciating the compliment. "Well, Ruben, I try my best to lead with integrity and vision." Ruben chuckled, swirling the contents of his coffee cup. "I've been doing some research on your company, and I'm impressed by your achievements.

 I believe there could be a way for our companies to collaborate for mutual benefit." Isabella appreciated his straightforward approach. "Collaboration can be fruitful, but it would depend on the specifics. What kind of cooperation are you proposing?"Ruben's eyes twinkled with confidence. "I've identified some synergies between our organizations. A strategic partnership could create significant opportunities for both of us." Isabella nodded thoughtfully. "I'm open to exploring possibilities. Let's discuss this further." As their discussions about the potential business collaboration continued, Reuben couldn't help but be drawn to Isabella's intelligence and grace. Reuben's gaze shifted from the papers to Isabella. With a hint of hesitation, he began, "So, Isabella," Ruben drawled, "I've heard you're the talk of the town. 

They say you're not only a CEO but also one of the four beauties everyone's chasing." Isabella raised an eyebrow, hiding her annoyance. She knew Ruben's type all too well. "Rumors tend to exaggerate, Ruben." Ruben chuckled, swirling the contents of his coffee cup. "I guess that's what makes you so intriguing. You're a challenge, and I love challenges." Ruben leaned in closer, his tone low and intimate. "Isabella, we could be a power couple. Imagine the headlines. 'Oscorp Heir and Zinna CEO: A Match Made in Success.'" Isabella maintained her composure as Ruben continued to press her. He laughed with a hint of condescension and suggested that she get a divorce, insinuating that her marriage had yet to be consummated. Isabella felt even more disgusted by his persistence but remained polite.

Ruben's smirk only widened as he said, "Isabella, it's clear that you're not happy in your marriage. Why continue with something that's obviously not working?" Isabella asked, "And how would you know that?" Ruben smiled and said, "words on the street." Isabella's response was measured. "Ruben, my personal life is not up for discussion. I've made my choices." Ruben didn't seem angry or frustrated by her rejection. Instead, he leaned in, his voice filled with a twisted charm. "Isabella, you must understand the stakes here. Your company is on the brink of collapse without this cooperation agreement. Signing it and being with me is your only way out."

Isabella's gaze hardened. She thought about the legacy her grandfather had left her, the knowledge he had imparted about the company and her marriage. It was her responsibility to ensure it thrived, not for the sake of Ruben, but for the memory of her beloved grandfather.

With unwavering determination, she responded, "Ruben, I've inherited my company from my grandfather. It's the most precious thing he left me, and I will do everything in my power to keep it thriving." Ruben's demeanor shifted slightly, and he let out a sigh. "Isabella, you're too stubborn for your own good. I genuinely believe that we could make a powerful team. Think about it, alright?" Isabella nodded, standing her ground. "I appreciate the offer, but I won't be changing my mind."

As Ruben was about to reply, his phone rang and he excused himself and stepped out of Isabella's office to take the call. Isabella watched him go with her mind still racing from their earlier conversation. She couldn't help but wonder what he might have in store next. While Ruben spoke on the phone, Isabella's thoughts began to drift.

She thought about her company, the cornerstone of her life and the legacy her beloved grandfather had entrusted to her. It wasn't just a business; it was a lifeline for her and her family, including her husband, Alexander. As she contemplated the importance of her company, a sense of responsibility weighed on her. It was not just her passion; it was also the source of support for the people she cared about most. The idea of letting it crumble was not an option she could accept.

Her thoughts also wandered to Alexander. He had been with her through thick and thin, even when her success was still a distant dream. She couldn't imagine betraying him, even if Ruben's promises were tempting. Isabella's mind was still deeply absorbed in contemplation, her thoughts divided between the commitment to her company and not wanting to betray her husband, Alexander. As she weighed the difficult decisions before her, she was taken completely by surprise when Ruben came into the office and held her hand. Isabella gasped in shock, unsure of what to expect from his next move. She hadn't anticipated that Reuben would take his advances to this level.

Reuben gazed up at her with firm confidence, his smile unyielding. "Isabella, I can't wait. I want to be with you, and I believe we can make a formidable team, personally and professionally." Isabella's voice quivered as she responded, "Ruben, this is overwhelming. I appreciate your feelings, but I am married, and I can't just abandon my husband." Reuben's grin wavered for a moment, but he quickly masked his disappointment. "Isabella, you're clinging to something that's holding you back. Your husband can't offer you the world like I can. Think about your future, the company, and the life you deserve."

Isabella's mind raced. She thought about the future of her company, the responsibilities she carried, and how it had become a lifeline for her family. The idea of losing it all over a marriage that held no love or commitment was terrifying. Isabella had been gradually lowering her mental defenses under Ruben's persistent persuasion, her mind burdened by recent financial troubles within her company.

As Ruben moved closer towards her with a hint of triumph as he let out a smirk, he prepared to embrace her, believing he had finally made a breakthrough. But just as Ruben was about to make his move, the door of the office was violently kicked open. The sudden intrusion sent shockwaves through the room, and Isabella's absent-minded demeanor vanished in an instant and returned to the present. Standing in the doorway with anger written on his face, was Alexander, her husband. He glared at Ruben with an intensity that seemed to transform him into a beast with his protective instincts flashing.

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