The next morning, the urgency of waiting manifested in various ways. Each moment felt like an eternity, and anxiety drove me to do something productive to fill the time. I chose to start the day with a visit to the gym, seeking release for the restlessness that occupied my mind. The vibrant colors of the treadmills and the soft sound of ambient music welcomed me, creating an environment that soothed the restless mind.

Next, I headed to my favorite café. The familiar aroma of freshly ground coffee hung in the air, embracing me and bringing a sense of comforting familiarity. The polished wooden tables and upholstered chairs invited tranquility, providing the perfect setting for reflection and finding balance. As I savored my drink, I let the ambiance calm me, at least for a brief moment.

Returning home, the need to fill the time was imperative. The day seemed to slip away from me, a race against the relentless clock. I attempted to relax in front of the TV, but the accumulated fatigue got the better of me, leading to a deep and unexpected slumber. I awoke abruptly to the insistent alarm, indicating it was already 4:00 PM. The initial shock was replaced by a race against time to prepare myself. The shower was invigorating, washing away the feeling of haste and allowing a brief moment of serenity before the next step. Around 5:30 PM, I was ready, every detail of my appearance carefully chosen for what lay ahead.

Upon arriving at the venue, I was taken aback by the opulence and luxury of the surroundings. Surely, a night's stay here would cost more than two months of my salary. I made my way to the apartment specified in the message and rang the doorbell, being greeted by the same blond man from the night of the ball.

-It's a pleasure to see you again, Ruby,-said the blond man, giving me space and permission to enter the apartment. -Make yourself at home.

The apartment was splendidly luxurious, featuring a breathtaking view that allowed me to glimpse the entire city from the balcony.

Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

-Would you like some tea, coffee, or something else?-he asked as he headed to the kitchen.

-I'll have a glass of water, please,-I replied, settling into an incredibly soft and comfortable leather armchair. The feeling of warmth and tranquility was reassuring, as if I were being embraced by a calmness I hadn't experienced in a long time. He handed me a glass of water and poured himself a whiskey. At that moment, I realized that perhaps I had acted on impulse. I was alone in the apartment of a man whose name I didn't even know.

-Would you mind telling me your name, please? I just realized that I still don't know your name.

-You seriously don't know my name?-said the man, laughing.

-Yes, I'm serious. That night was a whirlwind for me; I didn't have a chance to ask your name.

-I was sure you at least knew my name, since it's written on my card.

-I hadn't seen your name. I only read the card the day I called you, and even then, I could only read the numbers,-I explained as I double-checked the card. His name was there: Dalton Aswark.

-Don't worry, but you really shouldn't enter the homes of people whose names you don't know. It can put you at risk,-he said these words with a serious expression. -Allow me to properly introduce myself. Pleasure to meet you, Miss Ruby; my name is Dalton Aswark, but you can just call me Dalton.

-Pleasure to meet you, Dalton,-I took a deep breath and counted to 10 before taking the initiative. -I think it's long overdue that we start talking business. Why did you call me here? What proposal do you want to offer me?

-I'm eager to discuss business with you, Ruby, but we have to wait for a person who will arrive soon. She will be a very important piece for our business. In fact, she is the reason I sought you out.

At that moment, the doorbell rang, and when Dalton answered the door, a beautiful, red-haired woman walked in. She looked identical to me, except for the hair color. My heart raced. Who was this woman, and what was the connection between us?