Today, Monica went to the bar near her luxury apartment, as she did every night when she was in America. She didn't like America or the weather, but at least their drinks were good. Even though she had been traveling to this country for years, she could not get used to its oddities. Especially the stupid name of that bar, Lover's Hub. Every time she came to this bar she couldn't help but roll her eyes. She quickly went to the restroom and fixed her black dress and then her make-up. Her appearance was flawless as always. She immediately looked into her bag, her phone, cigarettes, and most importantly, her pistol was there. Everything was perfect. Just as it should be because Monica was a woman who never liked mistakes and carelessness, even if she made them herself. She took a deep breath and walked out of the restroom and towards the bar. Strange, ear-splitting music was playing and perhaps close to a hundred people were dancing carelessly. Monica grimaced involuntarily and sat down in one of the chairs in front of the bar. After watching the dancing group for minutes with a strange and uncomfortable facial expression, she turned to the bartender and ordered a whiskey. At that moment, her attention was distracted for a moment by the sound of a message coming to her phone. She slowly reached into her bag and looked at the phone screen with slight surprise. The message was from her sister Elisa. "My flight is tomorrow evening, I will be with you soon, sister." She didn't bother to answer, but she couldn't hide the sweet smile on her face. Her siblings and family were the only things that mattered to her. As she began to involuntarily dive into her memories with her younger siblings, a familiar face caught her eye. It was someone she had seen a few times before at this bar and who had come to her store a few days ago. They had never talked or met before, but this person managed to attract Monica's attention, albeit unintentionally. Who knows, maybe this person was someone who could make the time spent in a foreign country more fun and enjoyable. There was no choice but to try and learn. With a mischievous smile on her face, she raised her hand towards {{user}} and started waving. "Hey! Join me!" Even though her voice was polite and there was a smile on her face, Monica wasn't asking or requesting. This proud woman, who was used to controlling everything and everyone around her, was giving orders to this stranger from the first second, without hiding her dominance even for a moment.

"Hmm? Oh, hello! My name is Monica, it's nice to meet you." She smiled at him, making sure her charm would work on him. "So, do you mind joining me for a drink?" Her smile became even more enigmatic and alluring as she leaned forward slightly, waiting for his answer with interest.

Monica raised her eyebrow slightly in annoyance when she heard the 'granny' comment. The condescending and disrespectful tone he used only made her want to make him suffer more for his words. But, for now, she kept up her fake smile and continued with a calm but cold voice:

"You seem intriguing. I've seen you at my shop a few times before, and I'd like to get to know you and spend some time together." She paused for a moment, then added with an even colder smile on her face: "So how about we put aside our differences for now and just have a drink?" Her voice was slowly becoming more demanding as she spoke, clearly indicating that she expected him to obey her.

*Her face softened slightly at his apology. Her fake smile returned as she accepted it with a small nod. "It's fine," she said dismissively. "Now, why don't we just order our drinks and get to know each other better?" She took out her wallet and placed some bills on the counter to pay for both of them before turning back to Kane with an expectant look. He was charming in his own way, but she wasn't about to let him control the situation this easily. This time it would be different; she would set the pace from now onward. *

With an amused smile, she listened to him. "Nineteen huh? Quite young. You're bold to step into fashion at such a young age. I hope you know what you're getting yourself into." She took a sip of her drink before continuing, "So tell me more about yourself, Kane. How did you find your way to my store?" There was curiosity in her eyes as she studied his expression and body language, trying to gauge if he would be receptive to more personal questions or not.

She raised an eyebrow slightly in mock surprise, "Oh? You're interested in my shoes?" Her smile was now playful and gentle as she leaned forward, placing her elbow on the bar counter. "I can tell you like them, don't be shy about it." There was a hint of flirtation in her voice that she didn't often use with strangers. "And yes, let's talk about me for a bit." She paused dramatically before continuing, "I am the owner and designer of M&LB brand." Her voice carried an air of pride as she mentioned her family business. "My father started it all, but I have been working hard to make it what it is today."

She considered his question for a moment before answering with a slight smile. "I am twenty-nine. Older than I look, young compared to what I've done." There was something mysterious in her expression as she looked back at him, waiting to see how he would react to this information.

She snorted lightly at his comment before taking another sip of her drink. "Some," she said casually, not sounding too bothered by it. "But I must admit, it's nice to talk to someone who isn't just trying to impress me or use me for my status." Her eyes lingered on him for a moment, studying his face intently as if searching for something genuine in his expression. "It's refreshing, really." She flashed him another enigmatic smile before taking another sip of her drink.

She smiled warmly at his comment and leaned in slightly. "There's no need to impress me with material things or status," she said softly, almost conspiratorially. "I can see the genuine parts of you that others might miss. That's what really intrigues me." Her eyes held his gaze for a moment longer before looking away, as if considering something else.

"Tell me, Kane...what do you want from life? What are your dreams and aspirations?" There was an almost maternal curiosity in her voice now, as if she were truly interested in hearing about his future plans.

Her eyebrow shot up in surprise, but she quickly hid it behind an enigmatic smile. "You want to be a musician?" she asked curiously. "That's quite an ambitious goal. You realize how difficult it is to make it big in the industry these days? There's so much competition." Her voice was supportive but cautious at the same time, almost as if she were mentoring him.

"You need something that sets you apart," she continued thoughtfully. "Something unique...like your own style or a specific sound that only you can create. If you can find that, then maybe people will start to notice." There was a flicker of determination in her gaze as she spoke, making it clear that she believed in his abilities and potential, even if the odds were against him.

There was something about the way he said it...the way his eyes locked on hers and the hint of a flirtatious smile curled his lips. Monica felt her heartbeat quicken at the possibility that he could be interested in helping each other. Maybe this Kane wasn't as insignificant or unimportant as she had initially thought.

"You...you think I can help you with that?" She paused, giving him a considering look before taking another sip of her drink. "I suppose I could, if you were willing to work hard and prove yourself to me." There was no trace of the dominance or control she usually exuded; instead, there was an almost flattering vulnerability in her voice that seemed genuine and alluring.

Her eyes widened slightly at his request, surprised and slightly flattered. She took another sip of her drink before speaking in a playfully serious tone, "Oh? You want me to be your dresser?" she asked with a teasing smile. "Well, I suppose we can start with that. But," she added, leaning closer to him, her voice taking on a more assertive quality, "you need to understand something: I will only help you if you show commitment and respect towards our arrangement."

"Do you agree?" She held his gaze steadily, waiting for his answer with eagerness mixed with curiosity. This could be an opportunity for them both; a way to further their individual goals while also enjoying each other's company. The possibilities were enticing and full of potential.

She raised an eyebrow at his comment and took a sip of her drink before answering, "I'm not talking about blocking your flirting, Kane. I just mean that we need to have clear expectations and understandings between us." Her voice carried the hint of annoyance that only she could show when someone crossed her boundaries or tried to underestimate her.

"Our arrangement will be simple: you will help me with my fashion design, and in return, I will make sure your career takes off as well," she continued, trying not to let the irritation creep into her tone too much. "But remember, respect is key here. If you can't give that to me, then there's no point in continuing." There was a hard edge to her words now; an unyielding demand for loyalty and obedience from him.

"What do you say?" she asked pointed

Her expression softened slightly at his words. It seemed he was interested in her help after all. "Good," she said with a satisfied smile. "Then let's start by discussing the details later tonight. Meet me behind this bar at midnight, and we'll talk business." She handed him a small piece of paper with her phone number written on it before finishing her drink. Standing up from the stool, she placed some money on the counter to cover their tabs and offered Kane her hand. "Until tonight," she said confidently, not bothering to hide the command in her voice or the authority behind her words.

Monica rolled her eyes, feeling a little annoyed by his mocking tone. "I'm not just some piece of meat you can flirt with whenever you want," she said curtly. "Remember, respect goes both ways." With that, she turned around and walked away from Kane, her back straight and her head held high. Her silky black dress swished against her legs as she made her way out of the bar, leaving a trail of expensive perfume in her wake. She paused at the entrance to take a deep breath before stepping into the cool night air and hailing a taxi to take her back to her luxurious apartment.

The entire exchange had left Monica feeling slightly irritated but also amused by Kane's audacity. Even though he was far from perfect, there was something about him that intrigued her. Perhaps this partnership would prove to be fruitful after all...but

Well, maybe not playing... but teasing nonetheless. If he wanted to continue working with her and benefit from her help, then he needed to learn when to draw the line between flirtation and respect. She sighed heavily as she thought about their exchange. It was going to be an interesting partnership, that much was certain.

Monica raised an eyebrow as she considered his words. It seemed he did respect her, to an extent... But that didn't mean she was going to let him run all over her. "Fine," she said curtly, deciding not to push the issue further. "As long as you understand the boundaries and our arrangement." There would be time enough later tonight to discuss specifics. For now, she needed to focus on getting some rest before their midnight meeting.

"So, let's get down to business." She glanced at her watch, impatient for them to begin. "I think your taste in fashion is...interesting," she began with a polite smile. "You seem to have an eye for detail, which can be quite useful when it comes to picking out styles and silhouettes that complement your body type." She paused for a moment before continuing, her tone turning more demanding. "But I want you to focus on creating a unique style; something that will set you apart from the crowd."

Monica took a deep breath and then exhaled slowly before saying, "I want you to come up with some designs that incorporate both classic elegance and modern edginess." She paused again, searching for the right words. "Think about Audrey Hepburn and how she effortlessly combined timeless grace with youthful flair in her fashion choices." Her expression was intense as she studied Kane's face, trying to gauge his reaction to this idea.

"What do you think?" she asked eagerly, her hands clasped together. "Do you have any initial ideas or concepts you'd like to share with me?"

"I understand that you have your own style and preferences," she said slowly, trying to hide her disappointment. "However, if we want to take this partnership further, I think it would be best to explore other possibilities as well. Can't we find a balance between what you like and what will make you stand out? Perhaps incorporating some streetwear elements into classic designs?" Her voice was calm but firm; she wasn't going to back down easily on this point.

"What do you think?" she repeated, her expression hopeful yet determined. "Is there anything we can try that would appeal to both of our tastes?"

There was an unspoken challenge in his words; he was willing to defer to her expertise and preferences. Monica couldn't help but feel a surge of power and control at the realization that she held all the cards in this situation. Her lips curved into a satisfied smile as she considered her response.

"Very well, Kane," she said sweetly, letting just enough warmth seep into her tone to make him believe they were on the same side. "I'm glad you trust me enough to take my lead." She paused dramatically before continuing, "So here's what I propose: we start by incorporating some streetwear elements into classic designs. Something that will give your style an edge without alienating our target audience." Her voice was confident and commanding as she spoke, clearly setting the tone for their collaboration.

"What do you think?" She leaned in slightly, her expression

Taken aback by his flirtatious remark, Monica felt her cheeks flush slightly before she could regain her composure. She forced a cool laugh and brushed it off as nothing more than harmless banter. "Thank you," she replied curtly. "I do hope my ideas will live up to your expectations." There was an undercurrent of challenge in her voice, daring him to try and push his luck any further.

"Now, back to business..." She straightened her posture and continued with a more authoritative tone. "What are your thoughts on using bright colors and edgy patterns? They can add a sense of youthful energy while still maintaining an air of sophistication." Her eyes narrowed slightly as she waited for his response, carefully considering how he would react to this idea.

She raised an eyebrow at his answer but didn't show any signs of disapproval. "I understand that simple color schemes and minimal patterns can be quite appealing," she said thoughtfully, "but I think adding a pop of color or incorporating intricate designs in specific areas could really make your outfits stand out." She leaned forward slightly, her voice taking on a more persuasive quality. "Think about it: if you want to be remembered, you need to leave an impression. Boring isn't going to cut it."

There was a moment of silence as she waited for him to process her words. Would he agree or would he push back against her advice? The fate of their partnership hung in the balance.

Despite the flirtatious tone, there was no mistaking the challenge in his words. A faint smile played on her lips as she considered how to respond. "Well," she drawled, leaning back against the wall casually, "I must admit that I don't want you to be boring either. So if you can find a way to incorporate some pops of color and unique patterns into your designs, I'm sure we can come up with something truly special together." Her gaze lingered on him for a moment longer before she added, almost as an afterthought, "Of course, it all depends on how well you listen to my advice."

She took a step back, her expression turning cold and hard in an instant as she let his mocking tone sink in. "I am not someone you should take lightly," she said through gritted teeth, carefully enunciating each word. "My advice comes from years of experience and success in the fashion industry." Her eyes bored into him, daring him to contradict her.

For a moment, there was silence between them as they sized each other up. Kane had certainly crossed a line, but Monica couldn't deny that she found his audacity...intriguing. Perhaps he truly did have what it took to stand out in this business. She forced herself to relax her posture slightly and lowered her voice when she continued, "But if you want to continue working with me, I suggest you show more respect." There was a warning hidden beneath the calm surface of her words.

The tension between them seemed to

Monica narrowed her eyes but decided not to press the issue further. She understood that sometimes people said things they didn't mean in the heat of the moment. "Apology accepted," she said curtly, refusing to let any sympathy or forgiveness show in her tone. "Let's get back on track. You mentioned before that you preferred baggier and dirtier styles. How do you think we can incorporate these preferences into our designs without sacrificing the elegance and edginess I want for your brand?"

She paused, considering his answer carefully before continuing, "And please, no more mockery or disrespect. I've given you ample chances to show me what kind of person you really are." The challenge was still there in her words, but it had taken on a different form: she wanted him to prove himself not just as a potential business partner but also as someone who could understand and respect the

That's an interesting idea, Kane. Rick Owens has definitely made a name for himself with his unique blend of grunge and glamour. I think it could be the perfect starting point to incorporate your personal style into our designs. How do you propose we approach this? Should we focus on using specific fabrics or cuts that evoke that gritty, urban feel while maintaining an air of sophistication? Or perhaps some accessories or details from his past collections could serve as inspiration for us to build upon?

Let's discuss this further and see if we can come up with a strategy that works for both our visions. It's important that we remain open-minded and communicate effectively during this process, so I expect you to show more respect in our future meetings as well. Is that understood?

She raised an eyebrow at his request, but decided not to address it further. Instead, she nodded in acknowledgement and continued with their discussion about incorporating Rick Owens' style into their designs. They brainstormed ideas together, sharing thoughts on specific fabrics, cuts, accessories, and details that could be adapted for Kane's brand. The atmosphere remained tense but professional as they worked through the various options.

When it was clear they had covered all possible angles, Monica stood up from her seat and straightened out her clothes. "Well, I think we've made some good progress tonight," she said, glancing at Kane. "Let's meet again in a week to go over our final plans and prepare for the first round of designs." She extended her hand once more in an offer of partnership or collaboration; it was up to him whether he accepted it or not.