Aiden arrived at José's penthouse, the familiar opulence of the building greeting him. He pressed the button for the top floor, the elevator whirring smoothly upwards. As the doors opened, he was met with the scent of expensive cologne and the faint aroma of something cooking. José, clad in a silk robe, was in the kitchen, stirring a pot with a bored expression.

"Hey, man," Aiden said, placing the pizza box on the counter. "You're actually cooking? I thought you'd be ordering takeout."

José chuckled, "I tried to, but the delivery guy was late, and I was famished. So, I decided to whip up something simple."

"You're making... scrambled eggs?" Aiden asked, peering at the pan.

"With truffle oil and caviar," José replied, a hint of pride in his voice. "I call it 'the millionaire's breakfast.'"

Aiden shook his head, "You're a riot. But hey, you're the one with the penthouse and the fancy ingredients."

He grabbed a slice of pizza and took a bite, the cheesy goodness melting in his mouth. José joined him, taking a large bite of his scrambled eggs, the caviar glistening on top.

"So, how was the contract signing?" José asked, between bites.

Aiden shrugged, "It was alright. It CEO was good, but the view was impressive ."Aiden said smiling to himself

"I know that smile,Did you bang the CEO?"José asked

"Not yet but soon,i know that sooner or later that i will have Sophia Chen under me begging non stop for me to bang her faster and harder"

"Sophia Chen?"José asked with raised brows

"Yes,you need to see her man she has the biggest butt i've ever seen even while she was wearing joggers" He replied licking his lips

"She has the same name with Fatty cheeks,it might just be the name and not same people"

"who's fatty cheeks" Aiden asked feeling confused

"Are you kidding me"

"No"

"Fatty cheeks from highschool,you gave her that name and made people bully her but you were her biggest bully,we both enjoyed it till she moved with her family,i heard she moved because her father's business clashed or something but i'm not so sure"

Aiden's face fell, his smile vanishing as quickly as it had appeared. "Fatty cheeks?" he repeated, a chill running down his spine. The memories of his high school days, the taunting, the laughter, the girl with the flushed cheeks and the tear-filled eyes, all came rushing back. He had been a cruel boy, fueled by a need to feel powerful, and he had used his words like weapons.

"I... I didn't know," he stammered, his voice barely a whisper. "I didn't realize it was her."

"Well, now you know," José said, his voice heavy with a mix of disappointment and understanding. "She probably still remembers you, you know. It's not easy to forget someone who made your life miserable."

Aiden slumped back in his chair, the pizza suddenly tasting like ash in his mouth. He had always been the charming one, the confident one, the one who could get what he wanted. But in that moment, he felt small, his arrogance crumbling under the weight of his past.

"What do I do?" he asked, his voice barely audible.

"You think about it," José replied, his voice softer now. "Think about what you've done, and what you want to do now."

Aiden stared at his reflection in the greasy pizza box, the image of his younger self staring back at him, a cruel smirk plastered on his face. He felt a wave of nausea rise in his throat, the realization of his past actions hitting him like a physical blow. He had been a monster, a bully, a coward who hid behind a mask of bravado.

"I... I don't know," he mumbled, his voice thick with shame. "I don't know if I can even face her."

"You don't have to," José said gently, "But you should at least try to understand why you did what you did. Maybe you can even try to make things right."

Aiden nodded slowly, his gaze fixed on the pizza box. He knew he couldn't erase his past, but he could learn from it. He could choose to be better, to be the man he wanted to be. He could start by acknowledging his mistakes, by facing the consequences of his actions.

"I need to find her," he said, his voice firming up. "I need to apologize."

"Why"José asked looking intently at his friend

"It's only a contract,it's not like you are already building a personal relationship with her and how do you approach her now that you have known who she is ,do you just walk up to her and be like hey i didn't realise that it's you Fatty cheeks will you forgive me now and let me fuck your huge ass"José voiced all at once looking at his friend in a weird but familiar way

Aiden rolled his eyes at José's bluntness, trying to shake off the discomfort. "Dude, chill! That's not how I'd do it. I just want to be honest and say I'm sorry for being a jerk back then. It's not about anything else."

José raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Yeah, but still, it's kinda awkward, right? You just show up out of nowhere after all this time?"

"Maybe," Aiden admitted, running a hand through his hair. "But I can't just ignore it. I have to at least try. Besides, I can't keep living with this guilt. It's eating me alive."

"Fair enough," José said, leaning back in his chair. "Just think it through. You don't want to make it worse."

Aiden nodded, feeling the weight of his decision settle in. "Yeah, I'll figure it out. Thanks for keeping it real, man but fuck the glow up she's even hotter than all the models i've fucked,she looks both innocent and hot at the same time,i don't think you understand what i'm saying,you need to see her"

José's eyes widened as he realized the mix of admiration and regret in his voice. "Dude, I get it! Sounds like she's really turned into someone special. But remember, it's not just about looks, right? You gotta show her you've changed, not just that you think she's hot."

Aiden smirked, "Yeah, yeah, I know. But still, it's gotta be hard to focus on that when you're thinking about how amazing she looks now."

"True," Aiden said, a hint of a grin creeping onto his face. "But I just want to make things right first. That's the priority."

************

Sophia reached her mansion,her mansion is located in the outskirts of the city,she decided to seclude herself because she didn't need friends and didn't see the need for having friends,she has had her own share of friends betrayals in the past and she didn't want to repeat such mistakes again.she closed her eyes and recalled her encounter with Aiden,he had acted like he didn't know her or he was so good at pretending but she didn't want to think deep,Aiden is one of her painful past and she wants nothing to do with him but the collaboration is what she needs now for her fashion company to continue flourishing,the money she is enjoying now is all thanks to her sweats,her spring collections that were just sold out are the results of her sleepless nights she was still deep in thought that she didn't know when Ruth her assistant/nanny entered

"Sophia," Ruth said softly, her voice breaking through Sophia's thoughts. "Dinner is ready."

Sophia blinked, startled out of her reverie. She looked up at Ruth, her face a mask of composure. "Thank you, Ruth," she said, her voice carefully neutral.

She stood up and stretched, trying to shake off the lingering emotions that had been stirred by the memory of Aiden. She knew she had to focus on the present, on her company, on her future. The past was a closed chapter, and she was determined to keep it that way.

As she walked towards the dining room, she couldn't help but think about the upcoming collaboration with Aiden. It was a necessary evil, a strategic move to secure her company's future. But it also meant confronting the ghost of her past, the one she had tried so hard to bury.

Sophia knew that Aiden's presence in her life would stir up old wounds, but she was determined to keep her emotions in check. She had built her empire on her own, and she wasn't going to let a past relationship jeopardize her success.

She took a deep breath, reminding herself that this was a business deal, nothing more. She would be professional, she would be courteous, but she would also be cautious. She would not let Aiden back into her life, not even for a moment.

Sophia sat down at the grand dining table, the polished mahogany gleaming under the soft glow of the chandelier. Ruth placed a plate of steaming food in front of her, the aroma of roasted vegetables and herbs filling the air.

"How was the meeting with Aiden?" Ruth asked, her voice laced with concern.

Sophia took a bite of her food, savoring the rich flavors. "It went well," she replied, her tone carefully measured. "We discussed the details of the collaboration. He seems eager to work together."

Ruth raised an eyebrow, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "And what about you, Sophia? Are you excited about this collaboration?"

Sophia paused, her gaze drifting to the window overlooking the sprawling gardens. "It's a necessary partnership, Ruth," she said, her voice a whisper. "My company needs this, and Aiden's talent is undeniable. But..."

She hesitated, her thoughts swirling. "But what?" Ruth prompted gently.

"But Aiden is a part of my past, Ruth," Sophia said, her voice barely above a breath. "He's a ghost I thought I had buried. I'm not sure I'm ready to face him again."

Ruth's expression softened. "I understand, Sophia. It's a lot to handle."

"I know," Sophia sighed, taking another bite of her food. "But I have to do this. For my company, for myself."

Ruth reached across the table, her hand resting on Sophia's arm in a gesture of comfort. "You're strong, Sophia. You've overcome so much already. You'll be fine."

Sophia squeezed Ruth's hand, a flicker of gratitude in her eyes. She knew that Ruth was right. She had faced her share of challenges, from the tragic loss of her parents to the relentless pursuit of success in a male-dominated world.

The memory of her parents' untimely death, a car accident that had taken them both in a flash, still haunted her. It had been a defining moment in her life, a moment that had forever changed her perspective. She had vowed to honor their memory by achieving greatness, by building a legacy that would make them proud.

"I just hope I can keep my emotions in check," Sophia said, her voice barely a whisper. "I don't want to let the past interfere with the present."

Ruth nodded, understanding the weight of Sophia's burden. "You'll find your way, Sophia. You always do."

Sophia smiled faintly, a glimmer of hope flickering in her eyes. She knew that Ruth was right. She had always found a way, and she would find a way again.

Sophia took a deep breath, trying to push the anxieties about Aiden to the back of her mind. "Thank you, Ruth. I need that reminder."

"You're welcome, darling," Ruth said, her voice warm and reassuring. "But speaking of finding your way, don't forget about the President's wife's charity event. You're designing the centerpiece, remember?"

Sophia's smile faltered, the weight of the responsibility settling on her shoulders. "Oh, right," she said, her voice laced with a hint of panic. "I haven't even started sketching yet."

Ruth chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Don't worry, you'll pull it off. You always do. Just remember to take it one step at a time."

Sophia nodded, her mind racing. She had been so focused on the Aiden situation that she had completely forgotten about the upcoming event. It was a huge honor to be chosen for the project, but it also came with a great deal of pressure. The President's wife was known for her impeccable taste and her keen eye for detail.

"I'll get started right away," Sophia said, her voice regaining its usual confidence. "Thank you for reminding me, Ruth."

Ruth smiled, her expression radiating warmth and understanding. "Of course, darling. And remember, I'm always here for you."

Sophia knew that Ruth's support was invaluable. She was more than just her business partner; she was her confidante, her rock. With Ruth by her side, Sophia felt a surge of renewed confidence. She could face any challenge, overcome any obstacle.

Aiden stared at the cityscape, the city lights blurring into a kaleidoscope of colors as he drove. The hum of the engine and the soft jazz playing on the radio did little to soothe the churning in his stomach. He hadn't seen Sophia in a week, and the silence was deafening. It was like a phantom limb, the absence of her presence a constant ache.

He knew he'd messed up. Big time. The way he'd reacted to her news, his knee-jerk response, had been childish and impulsive. He'd been so focused on his own insecurities, his own fears of losing her, that he'd forgotten about her needs.

He'd called her, texted her, tried to reach out, but she wouldn't answer. He understood. He deserved her silence.

He'd tried to convince himself that it was for the best. That she was better off without him, without his baggage, his past. But the truth was, he couldn't imagine his life without her. She was the missing piece, the melody to his soul.

Aiden pulled over to the side of the road, the city lights casting long shadows on the pavement. He took a deep breath, trying to clear his head. He needed to talk to her, to apologize, to explain. He needed to make things right.

He knew it wouldn't be easy. He'd been a jerk in high school, making fun of her weight and her insecurities. He'd been a bully, and he'd hurt her deeply. He knew he didn't deserve a second chance, but he was willing to try. He was willing to fight for her. He was willing to do whatever it took to win her. He just hoped it wasn't too late.

Just as Aiden was about to dial Sophia's number, his phone buzzed with a familiar ringtone. It was Jenna, one of his casual flings from a few months back. He hesitated for a moment, glancing at the screen, but he knew he couldn't get distracted now.

He answered, trying to keep his tone neutral. "Hey, Jenna."

"Hey, Aiden! What's up? Wanna hang out?" she asked, her voice playful and inviting.

He felt a pang of temptation, but he shook his head, even though she couldn't see him. "Nah, not really in the mood. Got some stuff on my mind."

"Aw, come on! We had fun last time," she insisted, but Aiden could feel his resolve strengthening.

"Yeah, but I'm just focusing on some personal things right now. Maybe another time?" he replied, trying to keep it polite but firm.

"Okay, if you say so. Just remember, I'm here if you change your mind!" Jenna said, her tone still upbeat.

"Thanks, but I really need to sort things out. Take care," he said, ending the call before he could second-guess himself.

With a deep breath, he turned his attention back to Sophia. He had to get things right with her. That's what truly mattered.

Aiden put the car in gear and drove, the city lights blurring into a kaleidoscope of colors as he drove. He needed to see her, to talk to her, to apologize. He couldn't just sit here, paralyzed by his own guilt.

Aiden's hand hovered over the doorbell, uncertainty creeping in. He felt a mix of excitement and apprehension as he stood before the grand mansion. It seemed so imposing, a stark contrast to the warmth he had always associated with Sophia.

He took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart. He had been so focused on his feelings for her, but now he couldn't help but wonder what kind of life she led in this place.

Determined, he pressed the doorbell, waiting with bated breath for her to answer. He hoped to finally bridge the distance between them and see where their connection could lead.

Ruth answered the doorbell, standing firm in the doorway. "You need to leave, Aiden. You're not welcome here."

Aiden felt a knot tighten in his stomach, knowing he had messed up in the past. "Please, I just want to talk to her," he pleaded, desperation creeping into his voice.

As Aiden stepped inside, he was met not with a warm welcome, but with a cold glare from Ruth. "What are you doing here, Aiden?" she asked sharply, crossing her arms.

Before he could respond, the nanny appeared, her expression equally disapproving. "You shouldn't be here," she said firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument.

Aiden felt a wave of guilt wash over him as he realized that Ruth and the nanny knew about his past with Sophia. He opened his mouth to explain, but the words caught in his throat. He had come here to apologize, to make amends, but now he felt like an unwelcome intruder in a place that had once felt so familiar.

"Look, I just want to talk to Sophia," he finally managed to say, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.

Ruth exchanged a glance with the nanny, clearly skeptical. "You think she wants to see you after everything?" Ruth challenged, her tone icy.

Aiden swallowed hard, knowing he had a long way to go to earn their trust-and Sophia's.

*************

With a heavy heart, Aiden turned away from the imposing mansion, his hopes of seeing Sophia dashed against the cold reality of his past actions. He walked a few steps before pulling out his phone, needing to vent his frustration and confusion. He dialed José, his best friend, the only person he could confide in.

"Hey, José," Aiden said, his voice strained. "You won't believe what just happened."

José, ever the patient listener, replied, "What's up, man? Spill it."

Aiden recounted his encounter with Ruth and the nanny, his voice laced with disappointment and a touch of desperation. "They wouldn't let me in! They know about everything, José, and they think I'm a bad guy."

José listened intently, offering words of comfort and understanding. "Look, Aiden, it's understandable they're cautious. You messed up, but that doesn't mean you can't fix it. Just give it time and show Sophia you've changed."

Aiden sighed, knowing José was right. He had to prove to Sophia, and to himself, that he was a different person now. He hung up the phone, his resolve renewed. He might not be able to see Sophia right away, but he wouldn't give up. He had to make things right.

Aiden stepped back into his company, hoping to shake off the earlier encounter. But as he walked in, one of his casual partners approached him with a warm smile. "Hey, Aiden! Glad to see you back!"

However, Aiden wasn't in the mood for small talk or flirting. He felt cranky and irritated, the earlier rejection still weighing heavily on his mind. "Yeah, hey," he muttered, trying to brush past her.

Noticing his mood, she frowned slightly. "Everything okay? You seem off."

Aiden sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Just had a rough day. I'm not really up for... anything right now."

She nodded, sensing he needed space. "Alright, just let me know if you want to talk or hang out later."

With that, Aiden made his way to his office, hoping to clear his head and figure out his next move.