Chapter 3 Meeting Jordan Black.

Aliya's POV "He's here," hushed whispers and side comments were heard and I watched as my colleagues especially the female ones fantasizing and at the same time acting paranoid. My curiosity was piqued but I couldn't stop preparing our signature coffee. I have to put in my best.

Dramatic entry As the gleaming convoy of black SUVs and luxury sedans pulls up to the cafe's entrance, heads turn and conversations pause. The air is electric with anticipation. The powerful Mr Black, flanked by imposing bodyguards, stepped out of the lead vehicle, his presence commanding attention. The entourage, a symphony of sleek cars and sharp suits, dominates the parking lot. Each vehicle is meticulously polished, sporting tinted windows and discreet communication equipment. The escorts, crisp and alert, scan the surroundings with practiced vigilance. With a swift glance, Mr Black's personal assistant as it seems emerges from the second car and going over to the first car to usher out the man who has his name literally in every person's mouth. As he enters, the room falls silent, patrons craning to catch a glimpse. His authoritative stride and confident demeanor broadcast his stature. My hand was pulled bringing me out of my reverie. I was irritated immediately by Manager Jake's touch.

"What? Are you falling head over heels for that man when our lives is in danger? Come let's go" I watched Mr Black settle for a couch beside the window. Beside me, Manager Jake is panicky. His hands trembled slightly as he clutched his notepad and pen, his eyes fixed on the Mr Black's imposing figure seated at Table 17. Again, I wondered why Manager Jake was very afraid of this man. His sudden arrival had sent a ripple of unease through the cozy, three-star cafe. I have never seen anyone like him before - the air of authority, the tailored suit, and the subtle yet unmistakable aura of influence. As we approached the table, my mind raced with questions. What brought this man to his humble café? Was it a security check? A business meeting? Or simply a craving for our signature coffee?

I heard Manager Jake clear his throat, attempting to compose himself.

"Welcome, sir...to...uh, East Café. I'm Manager Jake. It's an honor to have you with us today."

The man nodded, acknowledging Manager Jake's presence, however, his piercing gaze were fixed on me, his expression unreadable, making me stiff . Manager Jake nervously gestured to me as I stood beside him. "I'd like to introduce Aliya, who'll be taking care of you during your visit. She's very excellent. She'll ensure your dining experience is exceptional." Trying to be professional, I hid my sweaty hands behind my crisp apron, stepping forward with a big smile.

"Hello, sir! It's a pleasure to serve you. Can I start you off with something to drink?"

My smile however faltered for an instant as his intense stare lingered on me. I felt a shiver run down my spine.

His eyes never left my face even as he spoke. I'm sure Manager Jake must have taken note of this too.

"Coffee. Black. No sugar," he ordered, his deep voice low and commanding.

I nodded, jotting down the order. "Right away, sir."

I went out to carry out the order leaving Manager Jake to the awkward situation. He hesitated, unsure whether to linger or retreat. "Is...there anything specific you'd like to know about our menu, sir? We have daily specials-"

Mr Black raised hand stopped him mid-sentence.

"I'll look over the menu."

Manager Jake nodded and backed away, sensing the unspoken request for Aliya especially with the way he looked at her. As he retreated to the safety of his office, he couldn't shake the feeling that this unexpected visit would change everything for good only if Aliya played her part well. And she has to play her part well. He will ensure that...

I returned back to his table with the tray of coffee, Manager Jake watching at a distance and warning me to be careful. I stood in front of Mr Black watching keenly as he took a sip of coffee in measured sips. He pushed the cup to me and I got the hint. As i poured the coffee, my hands shook slightly. I couldn't shake off the feeling Mr Black's interest went far beyond a simple cup of coffee. His eyes roamed over me, lingering on my name tag as I served him again.

"Why? You look so familiar?"

This was the first time he spoke to me directly and strangely, I felt numb in my body. I can't deny the fact that his deep voice sounded so melodious to my ears. He was drop dead gorgeous.

"Familiar? I'm sorry sir, but that's almost impossible" I muttered, feeling very nervous as I replied.

Mr. Black's face darkened, and he slammed the coffee mug down on the table "Bland," he muttered.

As Mr. Black's face darkened, I felt a shiver run down my spine. My heart racing, I took a step back, my hand instinctively grasping the notepad and pen as if seeking comfort.

"I-is everything okay...sir? Was the coffee not to your liking?" I stammered My gaze locked onto Mr. Black's, and I saw a flicker of intensity there. His eyes seemed to bore into my soul, making my skin crawl. Suddenly, his gaze dropped to my name tag again, with a smirk on his lips.

"What you just said", his voice though coming out as a whisper, sent shivers down my spine.

I swallowed hard, my mouth dry when I realized he wasn't referring to the coffee as bland but because I said it was almost impossible to have met him before.

The atmosphere around us grew heavier, and the air seemed to vibrate with tension. My eyes darted around the room, searching for an escape or support, before returning to Mr. Black's imposing figure. Where the heck was Manager Jake? Why did he leave me all alone with this man?

I pretended to clear my throat and quickly made an excuse.

"Sir, would you like a refill?"

He did not reply, but his gaze lingered on me, his expression unreadable.

"I'd go get it", I didn't wait for his reply before turning to leave hurriedly.

"I'll take it from here, Mr Black", Manager Jake suddenly came out from nowhere and smiled at me. I sighed in relief, unaware that it wasn't over between Mr Black and I yet.