Chapter 9 First Strike
Ariana Cole had never been just a pretty face in a designer dress.
Despite what the social pages loved to print about her, she wasn’t just some wealthy heiress with nothing better to do than lounge at elite parties. No–she had power. Influence. A mind sharper than any blade.
And now, she was going to use it.
Her father’s company, Cole Interiors & Design, was one of the leading firms in the industry. They specialized in high–end, bespoke luxury designs, working with the biggest hotels, resorts, and commercial spaces around the world.
Ariană had been raised in this world. She knew materials, fabrics, structural designs, and every intricate detail that made a space come alive.
For years, she had worked under her father, handling high–profile projects with precision and creativity.
But then, she had met Liam Carter.
And like a fool, she had let love blind her.
She had stepped back from certain projects, including the Stirling Hotel Project–a major deal that both Cole Interiors & Design and Carter Enterprises had been competing for.
At the time, she had told herself she was doing it for Liam. That it would be selfish to fight for a project that could bring success to his company.
Not anymore.
Today, she was going to take back what she had given up.
And she was going to do it by ripping the deal right out of Liam’s hands.
Ariana sat in the back of her car, the city blurring past her as she scrolled through files on her tablet.
The Stirling Hotel Project was one of the biggest luxury developments of the year. The hotel was set to become the crown jewel of the hospitality industry, with high–end clientele and massive revenue potential.
Whoever secured the contract to design its interiors would not only make millions, but also cement their reputation as an elite industry leader.
She had spent the morning researching the CEO of Stirling Enterprises, Donovan Harrington–a seasoned businessman known for his sharp instincts and no–nonsense attitude.
Liam and her father’s company were the two main contenders for the project.
And today?
Today, she was making sure Liam lost.
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She had studied Harrington’s schedule and knew exactly where he would be betore the final contract signing
She checked her reflection in the car mirror her dark waves perfectly styled, her map we we sharp, her black silk blouse and fitted skirt the embodiment of power and elegance.
She looked the part of a woman who was about to win.
The car slowed as they approached the exclusive Lancaster Colf Club, where Warregos we realidad for a private brunch.
Ariana stepped out of the car with confidence, her Louboutin heels clicking, want the pavement in the walked inside.
She had one shot.
And she wasn’t about to miss.
She spotted Donovan Harrington immediately,
The older man sat at a corner table, sipping black coffee, flipping through documents with an air of quiet
authority.
Ariana took a deep breath before making her move,
She walked up to his table, her expression composed, her voice smooth
“Mr. Harrington?”
Donovan glanced up, mildly surprised. “Yes?”
Ariana offered him a polite, confident smile. “My name is Ariana Cole. I work for Cole Interiors & Design, and I believe you and I have a very important conversation to have.”
Donovan raised an eyebrow, setting his coffee down.
“And why is that, Miss Cole?”
Ariana took the seat across from him without waiting for an invitation, keeping her gaze steady.
“Because I know you’re about to make a decision between two firms,” she said smoothly, “and I need you to know that only one of them is capable of bringing your vision for Stirling Hotel to life.”
Donovan leaned back, intrigued. “And I assume you think your father’s company is the right choice?*
Ariana’s lips curled slightly. “I don’t think–I know.”
Donovan smirked. “And why is that?”
Ariana didn’t miss a beat.
“Because while Carter Enterprises is a business firm, Cole Interiors is a design powerhour hiring contractors–you’re hiring artists who understand the psychology of luxury hospitality. pent three years studying how interior design impacts guest experience. I know how to turn a hotel into an experience, not just a building.”
You’re not just
She pulled up her tablet, sliding it across the table. “This is my team’s proposal. The concept is based on
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elevated sensory immersion–a design that doesn’t just look beautiful but feels beautiful ”
Donovan’s interest sharpened. He swiped through the visuals, nodding slowly.
Ariana leaned in slightly, her voice dropping into persuasive intensity.
“You don’t just need someone who can build a beautiful space, Mr. Harrington. You need someone who understands what your guests will feel when they step inside. Someone who understands how to translate opulence into an unforgettable experience.”
Donovan exhaled, tapping a finger against the table.
“Miss Cole,” he said finally, a glint of approval in his eyes. “You make a very compelling argument.”
Ariana allowed herself a small smile.
“Then let’s put it on paper,” she said, pulling a contract from her bag.
Donovan chuckled, shaking his head in amusement and admiration.
“You’te bold, I’ll give you that,” he said, signing the document without hesitation.
Ariana’s fingers tightened slightly around the paper as she watched his signature appear on the deal.
It was done.
Cole Interiors had won.
Liam had lost.
Ariana stood gracefully, sliding the signed contract into her bag. “Pleasure doing business with you, Mr. Harrington.”
Donovan smirked. “I have a feeling you’ll go far, Miss Cole.”
“Oh, I intend to.”
She turned to leave–just as Liam walked in.
The moment Liam saw her, he froze.
His blue eyes flicked to her, then to Donovan, then to the contract folder in her hand.
His jaw clenched.
“Ariana,” he said slowly, his voice tight with controlled anger.
She stopped, tilting her head. “Liam.”
His gaze darkened. “What are you doing here?”
Ariana smirked, tapping the folder against her palm.
“Oh, didn’t you hear?” she said sweetly. “Cole Interiors & Design just secured the Stirling Hotel contract.”
Liam’s entire body stiffened. “What?”
Ariana feigned innocence. “You were trying to win this deal, weren’t you?” She let out a soft mocking sigh.
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