Chapter 2 MEETINGS AND MISFITS

"Note to self: never trust anyone who asks for a mural and wears a designer hoodie at the same time."

Jade returns to Tony 's office, struggling to blend into the sleek, corporate environment of Aldridge Technologies. As she enters the high-tech conference room with Tony , she feels as out of place as ever in her paint-splattered jeans. Tony , on the other hand, is composed in his trademark hoodie, looking like he could disappear at any moment.

Their meeting begins with Tony asking her thoughts on the headquarters' decor, genuinely curious about how she would add her unique, vibrant touch. Jade can't help but be blunt, calling it "way too polished and a little too... sterile." Tony listens without taking offense, and the contrast between his calm curiosity and her unabashed honesty creates both tension and intrigue.

He tells her he wants "something real" for the headquarters, which piqued her interest, but she's still wary. Why would someone as reserved as Tony want something so raw? Their banter grows warmer, with Jade making sarcastic comments about billionaires and Tony chuckling in response.

"So, why me?" Jade asked, crossing her arms and eyeing Tony like he was a puzzle she couldn't quite solve.

Tony leaned back, hands in his hoodie pockets. "Because you're not afraid to call things as they are. This place needs someone like that."

Jade raised an eyebrow. "Someone to keep it messy?"

"Exactly." A flicker of a smile crossed his face, just enough to make her realize he wasn't as cold as he seemed.

As the meeting continues, Jade sketches out a few mural ideas, her creativity taking over. Tony observes, more relaxed, and for a brief moment, Jade sees a side of him that isn't buried under layers of formality and wealth. It's an intriguing hint of vulnerability, though he quickly returns to his composed demeanor whenever he feels her noticing.

They discuss the mural's purpose and the vision he has in mind, and Tony 's focus surprises her; he's invested in making his headquarters feel authentic, not just like another billionaire's playground. By the end of the meeting, she's intrigued and finds herself saying yes to the project, despite her usual reluctance to work with high-profile clients.

"You have...big plans," she murmured, jotting down notes. "Didn't expect that from someone with a minimalist fortress."

"Life's full of surprises," he replied, his gaze lingering on her sketchbook. She caught him watching, a small smile escaping her before she snapped the book shut.

As she packs up her sketchbook to leave, Tony suggests grabbing a coffee to "talk ideas further," something that catches her off guard. Jade reluctantly agrees, finding herself amused and curious about this mysterious guy who's more relaxed outside of his office than in it. They head to a nearby café and continue talking. Tony opens up a bit about his past and the pressures of his family legacy and hints at the reasons behind his reputation for ghosting.

For Jade, this is both fascinating and a little confusing. She can tell he's hiding more than he's saying, but the vulnerability he shows makes her feel something she didn't expect.

"Sometimes, it's easier to disappear," he admitted over his coffee. "People expect less that way."

Jade tilted her head, studying him. "I don't know if that's true. Maybe they just think you're a ghost," she teased, half-joking. He only smiled a little ruefully but didn't deny it.

They return to the office, and Tony offers her a considerable advance for the project, more than she's ever made from any art commission. Despite her usual independence, the offer leaves her speechless. She's used to struggling for each paycheck, and his casual offer of something life-changing almost knocks her off balance.

Though initially unsure, she eventually accepts, feeling both excited and wary. They part ways with a sense of mutual respect and intrigue, both unsure of what the future holds but excited about the project ahead.