Her Nectar, His Peak

Regan.

I'm sitting in the conference room of HST Research and development organization, where am listening to the pitch for a new anti-aging serum, developed for elite clientele of the world. But I barely hear a thing. 

It's Monday morning. I should be focused on the pitch. Our research institute notable for carrying out large scale projects, such as this, yet I don't hear a thing they're saying. 

The slides moving, showing the serum, the work it does. I don't hear nothing. All I see is a beautiful, dark haired, tanned skinned Rita, standing in front of me. Her tight, black dress, an epitome of seduction. Her straight, legs in those heels, captivating. Her bright, almond shaped eyes, perfect for her beautiful face. 

I should be seeing Lucinda.

However, thoughts of Lucinda don't creep in. Only Rita Schofield. The woman, whose heart I stole, all those years ago. My mind fights to resist the jolt of excitement that courses through me, knowing she's here. Alive and well. Still has me in her eyes, after these years. 

"Sir. Sir…" 

I jolt, my mind focusing. It's James, director of projects, who's dragging my attention from my thoughts. I frown, startling James. 

"My apologies, Sir. I needed to know if the design meets your approval?" James watches me with keen interest.

 I didn't listen to a thing they said during the pitch. I pick the file on the project, perusing a few key notes. 

"I like the idea that clients will be able to have a longer life span with this serum. At least, there would be less need for medical interventions, concerning aging. But I don't think it can defeat death from accidents or say, murder." I jeer, grinning slyly.

They look at me, horrified.

I feel horrified at my declaration, but I can't take it back. Am in no mood for socialization at the moment and there's nothing that can be done about it. 

Since I set eyes on Rita, a week ago, I haven't been myself.

Not batting an eyelid, I pick the file, appending my signature on it. I know there are notable clients who have preordered these serums. Paid millions for them. And we wouldn't want them disappointed. 

"Ensure that production begins immediately." I announce, curtly, rising; exiting the conference room.

Not minding the surprised eyes of everyone, as I leave. 

Inside the elevator, I finally breathe. I was suffocating in there. All thoughts of Rita, clouding me. All I could see was her beautiful form. Her face, soaking with adulation, the night I promised my love. 

I hadn't seen that house, when Rita talked that morning. I only saw her and how much she's changed. Lucinda's words barely reached my ears. Her presence had felt so alien to me and I could only pretend that she mattered in that instant. 

Flashes of that night cross my mind and I really wish like exiting the elevator. I wish the elevator can just arrive the ground floor sooner. The constant pleas of Rita that night her family was wiped, filter into my mind. 

'Please don't hurt my father. Don't hurt my mum. Hurt me instead…'

 I was present that night it all happened. Dad had forced my elder brothers and I to accompany him and his men on the trip. I watched the family of this beautiful 18-year-old girl, slain before my eyes, and I couldn't do anything. Not like I hadn't accompanied dad before on such an operation, but this time, it crushed me. For the first time I saw something else.

The elevator door slides open, pushing those cruel thoughts back. Reporters are hanging on the door of the organization, as I cross the exit. 

"Mr Heartstone, is it true that this product, would help in anti-aging?" A reporter throws at me.

I don't want to answer, so I push past the reporter, heading for the car. More reporters swamp me.

"Is it true only the rich will be able to afford this serum?" Another reporter asks.

 A beautiful woman. She reminds me of Rita. I stand still, looking at her. I shouldn't answer, because the serum is still under the covers. Dad never lets us respond to the media concerning the innovations, until they've been unveiled. However, I defy dad.

"What's your name?" I ask her. She looks at me, warily.

I smile, knowing she like everyone here didn't expect a response from me.

"Don't worry I wouldn't bite, if you don't want me to." 

Everyone breaks into a laugh, while my eyes remain on her. I see she realizes am being flirtatious. 

"Dinah, Sir." She lowers her eyes demurely.

I like her, even though she wouldn't quench the feelings that stirs in me for Rita.

"A beautiful name." I smile. She raises her eyes. When I see I have her attention, I speak.

"I see you work for LA World." 

She nods, quietly.

"Yes. For now, the serum would be for rich clientele." I confirm.

I see her face fall in disappointment, and it mirrors the disappointment I had seen in Rita's eyes, when we had separated, six years ago.

Choosing to brighten her mood, I add.

"However, we might later produce more affordable quantities for the masses." I reveal. 

Her face grows thoughtful for a second, before she speaks again. "But wouldn't that reduce the quality of the product?" 

 I think about what she's said. Actually, we aren't supposed to make the product for the poor masses. However, in order to flirt with her, I lied

Fishing for an excuse, I say.

"Well, am sure that HST would be able to ensure that the product continues to meet with standard." I flash her one of my charming smiles and brush past her. 

Inside the car, I ask my assistant to get me Dinah's number.

My phone rings. I answer it; already expecting the next words that are sure to follow.

"Hello Dad."

"What in God's name prompted you to speak all that on television?"