He stepped into the conference room, radiating confidence and the anticipation of an easy victory. The large glass doors slid smoothly aside, allowing him and his companion—a slender brunette in an elegant yet slightly provocative dress—to enter. Even before crossing the threshold, Robert Hayes—a well-known millionaire in business circles, owner of a major real estate company—was certain that a smile, a firm handshake or two, and his captivating speech would charm the partners effortlessly.
But everything crumbled in an instant when he saw who was seated at the head of the table. It was his wife. Hayes froze as if he’d slammed into an invisible wall. His jaw dropped involuntarily, and the hand holding the folder of documents trembled slightly. Time seemed to stand still. Right in front of him, dressed in a sharp pantsuit, with impeccable hair and a steady gaze, sat the woman he had honestly been avoiding in high society.
The woman whose humble background had embarrassed him, whose presence he deemed inappropriate in his luxurious lifestyle. The very wife he had once married for love, but whom he later began to distance himself from as soon as his fortune grew substantial. And now, here she was, occupying the leadership position in these crucial negotiations.
- Maryanne? — he whispered, unable to believe his eyes.
She merely raised an eyebrow, looking at him without a hint of embarrassment, displaying complete professional detachment. Beside her sat the people he had expected: partners from the international project, experts, financial analysts. They exchanged glances, not fully grasping what was unfolding. Only a few, including the head of the international corporation «Velara»—a tall, silver-haired man named Gabriel Monten—shared meaningful looks, realizing they were about to witness quite the drama. The brunette whom Robert had brought as his assistant literally felt the tension in the air thicken.
Her name was Melissa. She was a bold, self-assured woman, accustomed to her beauty and charisma opening any doors. But now, facing Maryanne’s direct gaze, she felt uncomfortable. And even a bit guilty. After all, if this was Hayes’ wife, why hadn’t he mentioned a word about her capability to appear at negotiations, let alone as the director?
- Please, everyone, come in and take your seats, — Maryanne said calmly.
Her voice was even and professional, but Robert caught familiar notes of resentment and cold determination in it. The room filled with a quiet murmur. Partners, managers, interpreters—all watched this clash of stares, unsure whether to smile awkwardly or wait for the events to unfold like in a dramatic series. Some anticipated a massive argument with raised voices. Others thought the director and businessman would handle everything maximally formally. However, the silence dragged on. Robert took a deep breath, trying to steady his breathing. His pride and self-assurance—qualities that had always helped seal deals—turned into chills and heat simultaneously. He stepped toward the long mahogany table, circled it, and sat in his place. Melissa settled next to him, projecting her importance with every gesture.
Under her gaze, the glances became even more intense. Some personal assistants and secretaries evidently realized she wasn’t just an assistant and that the situation promised plenty of gossip. Maryanne’s voice rang out like steel:
- Thank you all for coming. First, let me introduce myself: I am Maryanne Hayes. I’ve recently been appointed as the international project director for «Velara,» and accordingly, I’ll be managing the new joint venture for building a network of business centers across the United States. Thank you for being here, ladies and gentlemen.
Robert nearly dropped his pen upon hearing those words. So now Maryanne—the one whose opinion was decisive in his potentially massive deal. Meanwhile, he himself had aimed to take leading positions in this project, counting on colossal profits and expanded influence. But circumstances had ironically turned against him. Just three days ago, he had learned that one of the key investors planned to replace their representative. And it turned out to be his own wife, whom he had considered too ordinary for elite circles.
- Maryanne, — Robert decided to go on the offensive, trying to compose himself, — we have a lot to discuss. I think it’s wiser to get straight to the point to not waste the respected partners’ time.
She ran her fingertips along the edge of the table, giving herself a few seconds to decide on her approach. Once, Maryanne had been quiet, gentle, and incredibly caring. She prepared breakfasts for him, managed the household, volunteered at a children’s shelter. She was expected to be submissive and uncomplaining. But years of patience had passed. And now, before everyone, stood a completely different person—strong, independent, and capable of meeting challenges head-on.
- Of course, — she nodded, averting her gaze from Robert. — We have a detailed plan: development, investments, market entry prospects, technical aspects. Please, take your seats and prepare for the presentation. I’ll be leading the discussion.
- Gabriel Monten, the silver-haired head of «Velara,» signaled to the specialists, who turned on the projector and displayed slides on the large screen. There was a light shuffle of chairs being rearranged, the rustle of papers. Melissa kept casting sidelong glances at Maryanne, trying to discern any trace of jealousy or anger. But Maryanne appeared calm, focused on the business, and only occasionally shot glances toward her husband filled with hidden reproach.
- Ladies and gentlemen, — Maryanne began, pointing a laser pointer at graphs and diagrams, — our project encompasses not only the construction of business centers but also a comprehensive infrastructure designed for long-term sustainability. We plan to create not just office spaces, but to develop surrounding areas with advanced recreational zones, shopping and entertainment complexes, and high-comfort residential neighborhoods.
Her words flowed confidently, clearly, professionally. Maryanne showered facts, figures, and plans as if this had been her lifelong calling. Robert sat, gripping the armrest, unable to believe that this modest girl he had once brought home to make a homemaker had evolved so dramatically in such a short time. He had always seen her as lacking ambition. In fact, he was used to viewing her as a quiet support system that bolstered a man without stepping into the spotlight. And now she held the position he had courted from international holdings.
When Maryanne’s presentation concluded, the room erupted in applause. But in that applause, Robert heard not only admiration but also sly curiosity. After all, everyone had seen the unpredictable and sharp intrigue brewing. Following the formal part, a lively discussion ensued: questions, answers, clarifications. Robert also tried to contribute amendments, suggest beneficial changes, reminding all that he was an experienced player in the real estate market. But every time he spoke, his gaze met Maryanne’s icy clarity, which threw off his composure. Melissa whispered hints to him, flipped through documents, but more often her presence seemed out of place. After all, international negotiations weren’t a social party, and the role of a mistress wasn’t accounted for here.
Once the hottest debates subsided and the main issues were addressed, everyone turned to coffee and light snacks. Many gravitated toward Maryanne, eager to personally express admiration or ask follow-up questions. Robert stayed aside. He understood that approaching his wife now would cause even more stir. But delaying and hiding was beneath his dignity, and he needed to find out how she had ended up here. Gathering courage, he resolutely headed toward her, leaving Melissa at the coffee table, where she struck up small talk with French-speaking colleagues.
Pulling Maryanne slightly aside, he spoke in a low voice:
- Explain what’s going on. Since when are you the international director of «Velara»? And why am I only finding out about it by seeing you at the head of the table in key negotiations?
She looked at him as if he were a barely acquainted person behaving too familiarly.
- Robert, you know perfectly well that after your company started growing, I had to find myself in something else. I pursued self-education, completed business courses, gained experience working at an investment firm. Back then, you considered it frivolous and a waste of time. I didn’t argue. I studied, did internships, built connections. And after a couple of years, I ended up on «Velara’s» staff. Yes, I had mentors, I won’t deny it. But I proved my competence to them.
- Mentors? — Robert barely restrained a flash of jealousy. — Who are these people? Maybe you have a lover on the side too?
- Stop it! — she said with disgust. — Don’t project your actions onto me. If you remember, we once vowed to be faithful to each other. But at some point, you vanished from my life and found comfort in outside affairs. I know about your «assistant» and what your business trips entail. Need me to remind you how embarrassed you were when I offered to accompany you?
Robert’s face flushed red. He was angry and felt as if he’d been caught red-handed, like a thief in his own store. But who had told her about Melissa? Probably the whole city was discussing their relationship. And he had been too arrogant to hide it. He thought his wife had simply resigned herself and would endure as before. Turned out, no. Still, he tried to soften his tone:
- You should have told me you hold such a position. We’re family, after all.
Maryanne smirked. The word «family» sounded like mockery to her.
- Family? Do you remember the last time we had a heart-to-heart or dined together, not to mention anything more? My appointment was «Velara’s» board decision. And if I’d told you beforehand, you’d surely have tried to sabotage me. I didn’t want your «help,» which boils down to locking me at home or dragging me to another reception where everyone whispers behind my back. Or publicly humiliating me with «friendly» jokes about «she’s simple, from the countryside.»
- I never said that! — Robert protested indignantly.
- But you thought it, — she cut him off. — And it doesn’t matter if you said it aloud. I felt it all. I hoped you’d change. But now there’s no point in dreams. We must lead this project together, but as equals. Otherwise, it won’t happen.
- Are you threatening me?
- I’m setting conditions for you, Robert. It’s up to you: agree or miss the opportunity. By the way, don’t think about discrediting me before the board—they won’t believe slander; they’ve vetted all my merits and reputation thoroughly.
- Gabriel Monten, the silver-haired head of «Velara,» signaled to the specialists, who turned on the projector and displayed slides on the large screen. There was a light shuffle of chairs being rearranged, the rustle of papers. Melissa kept casting sidelong glances at Maryanne, trying to discern any trace of jealousy or anger. But Maryanne appeared calm, focused on the business, and only occasionally shot glances toward her husband filled with hidden reproach.
- Ladies and gentlemen, — Maryanne began, pointing a laser pointer at graphs and diagrams, — our project encompasses not only the construction of business centers but also a comprehensive infrastructure designed for long-term sustainability. We plan to create not just office spaces, but to develop surrounding areas with advanced recreational zones, shopping and entertainment complexes, and high-comfort residential neighborhoods.
Her words flowed confidently, clearly, professionally. Maryanne showered facts, figures, and plans as if this had been her lifelong calling. Robert sat, gripping the armrest, unable to believe that this modest girl he had once brought home to make a homemaker had evolved so dramatically in such a short time. He had always seen her as lacking ambition. In fact, he was used to viewing her as a quiet support system that bolstered a man without stepping into the spotlight. And now she held the position he had courted from international holdings.
When Maryanne’s presentation concluded, the room erupted in applause. But in that applause, Robert heard not only admiration but also sly curiosity. After all, everyone had seen the unpredictable and sharp intrigue brewing. Following the formal part, a lively discussion ensued: questions, answers, clarifications. Robert also tried to contribute amendments, suggest beneficial changes, reminding all that he was an experienced player in the real estate market. But every time he spoke, his gaze met Maryanne’s icy clarity, which threw off his composure. Melissa whispered hints to him, flipped through documents, but more often her presence seemed out of place. After all, international negotiations weren’t a social party, and the role of a mistress wasn’t accounted for here.
Once the hottest debates subsided and the main issues were addressed, everyone turned to coffee and light snacks. Many gravitated toward Maryanne, eager to personally express admiration or ask follow-up questions. Robert stayed aside. He understood that approaching his wife now would cause even more stir. But delaying and hiding was beneath his dignity, and he needed to find out how she had ended up here. Gathering courage, he resolutely headed toward her, leaving Melissa at the coffee table, where she struck up small talk with French-speaking colleagues.
Pulling Maryanne slightly aside, he spoke in a low voice:
- Explain what’s going on. Since when are you the international director of «Velara»? And why am I only finding out about it by seeing you at the head of the table in key negotiations?
She looked at him as if he were a barely acquainted person behaving too familiarly.
- Robert, you know perfectly well that after your company started growing, I had to find myself in something else. I pursued self-education, completed business courses, gained experience working at an investment firm. Back then, you considered it frivolous and a waste of time. I didn’t argue. I studied, did internships, built connections. And after a couple of years, I ended up on «Velara’s» staff. Yes, I had mentors, I won’t deny it. But I proved my competence to them.
- Mentors? — Robert barely restrained a flash of jealousy. — Who are these people? Maybe you have a lover on the side too?
- Stop it! — she said with disgust. — Don’t project your actions onto me. If you remember, we once vowed to be faithful to each other. But at some point, you vanished from my life and found comfort in outside affairs. I know about your «assistant» and what your business trips entail. Need me to remind you how embarrassed you were when I offered to accompany you?
Robert’s face flushed red. He was angry and felt as if he’d been caught red-handed, like a thief in his own store. But who had told her about Melissa? Probably the whole city was discussing their relationship. And he had been too arrogant to hide it. He thought his wife had simply resigned herself and would endure as before. Turned out, no. Still, he tried to soften his tone:
- You should have told me you hold such a position. We’re family, after all.
Maryanne smirked. The word «family» sounded like mockery to her.
- Family? Do you remember the last time we had a heart-to-heart or dined together, not to mention anything more? My appointment was «Velara’s» board decision. And if I’d told you beforehand, you’d surely have tried to sabotage me. I didn’t want your «help,» which boils down to locking me at home or dragging me to another reception where everyone whispers behind my back. Or publicly humiliating me with «friendly» jokes about «she’s simple, from the countryside.»
- I never said that! — Robert protested indignantly.
- But you thought it, — she cut him off. — And it doesn’t matter if you said it aloud. I felt it all. I hoped you’d change. But now there’s no point in dreams. We must lead this project together, but as equals. Otherwise, it won’t happen.
- Are you threatening me?
- I’m setting conditions for you, Robert. It’s up to you: agree or miss the opportunity. By the way, don’t think about discrediting me before the board—they won’t believe slander; they’ve vetted all my merits and reputation thoroughly.
