The morning sun streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the sleek conference room, but Zoe barely noticed. A steaming cup of coffee sat beside her, untouched, as she flipped through her architectural plans for the high-rise building. Her fingers traced the intricate lines of the design—one she had poured weeks of relentless effort into. Her dark circles were slightly less pronounced than the night before, but exhaustion still clung to her features.
She took a deep breath and straightened her posture as the door swung open. Daniel, her client, stepped inside, dressed in a sharp navy-blue suit. He was a seasoned businessman with an eye for detail, and though he had always appreciated her work, he was also known for his last-minute revisions.
But Zoe's attention was momentarily stolen by the man who walked in beside him.
He was tall, with an air of quiet confidence. His sharp jawline and well-defined features looked like they belonged in a high-fashion magazine rather than in a meeting room. His dark hair was neatly styled, and his piercing blue eyes held a hint of mischief. The way he carried himself—relaxed yet commanding—made it clear that he was no ordinary businessman.
Daniel gestured toward him. "Zoe, this is Mr. Lyam Martin. He's an investor in the project and has been keenly following the design's progress."
Zoe quickly composed herself, though she could feel the warmth creeping into her cheeks. She extended a hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
Lyam's lips curved into a charming smile as he took her hand in a firm but gentle grip. "The pleasure is all mine. I've seen your designs, and I must say, they are nothing short of brilliant."
Zoe wasn't sure if it was the fatigue or the unexpected compliment, but for the first time in days, she felt a flicker of something other than exhaustion—pride, perhaps, or intrigue.
Daniel cleared his throat, pulling them back to the matter at hand. "Now, about the design," he began, sliding the plans onto the glossy conference table. "It's stunning, truly, but I'd like to discuss a slight revision."
Zoe swallowed the sigh threatening to escape her lips. Of course, there was always something to change. "What kind of revision are we looking at?" she asked, her tone remaining professional.
As Daniel began outlining his thoughts, Zoe could feel Lyam's gaze on her. Not in an intrusive way, but in a way that made her acutely aware of his presence. He was listening intently, his expression thoughtful. When he finally spoke, his deep voice was smooth yet assertive.
"I understand the need for revisions," Lyam said, tapping a finger against the design, "but I have to say, this structure already has a remarkable balance of aesthetics and functionality. The way you've integrated the glass façade with the natural elements—it's bold yet elegant."
Zoe blinked, momentarily caught off guard. Most clients and investors focused on numbers and practicality, but Lyam saw design. He appreciated the artistry behind the structure.
"Thank you," she said, her lips curving into a small smile. "That was the goal—to create something striking yet efficient."
Daniel nodded, adding, "I agree, it's incredible. My revision request is minor. I just want slight modifications to the rooftop terrace—perhaps more space for greenery?"
Zoe made a quick note, already mapping out solutions in her mind. "That's doable. I'll make the adjustments and have the revised model ready by the end of the week."
As the meeting wrapped up, Lyam lingered for a moment while Daniel gathered his things.
"You work hard," he observed, his voice lower now, just between them. "I can tell."
Zoe exhaled a small laugh. "That obvious, huh?"
"Let's just say, I notice details," Lyam replied, his smile holding a hint of something unreadable.
Zoe wasn't sure what it was about him—his confidence, his easy charm, or the way he actually saw her work—but for the first time in weeks, the exhaustion felt just a little bit lighter.