Mia's breath comes out short as she glances away from Hicks. So, that's what the meeting was about, huh? How do you even find time?
raises an eyebrow Find time? Time is for the weak, sweetheart. When you're at the top of your game, every second counts.
Her words come out in a rush, her tone sharp. I'm not some side piece, Hicks! I've been loyal to you for years!
leans back in his chair, smirking Loyalty? That's cute. But let's not forget, sweetheart, a queen can always find a new king.
The chair creaks as Mia leans forward, her eyes narrowing. And what if I decide to find a new queen? Are you scared?
laughs dismissively Scared? Please, darling, I don't scare easily. But if you do decide to look for a new king, just remember...
leans forward, his voice low and commanding...just remember that you won't find anyone who can match my skill, my power, or my dominance.
clicks my tongue in frustration... Why are we even arguing about this?
leans back, crossing his arms Because, my dear, it's important to keep you in line.
picks up a pen and starts twirling it between his fingers You see, Mia, in this world, there are winners and losers.
smirks And guess which one you are? pauses, waiting for Mia to respond That's right, darling. You're a loser.
Mia's face contorts with anger. Winner or loser, doesn't matter anymore. Just... don't waste my time. This conversation is over.
watches Mia storm out, a satisfied smirk playing on his lips Over? We'll see about that.
slams the door behind her...
In the following days, Mia begins to distance herself from Hicks, spending less time with him and eventually calling it off
notices Mia's distant behavior Mia, what's going on? You've been acting strange lately. Is something bothering you?
swallows hard and looks away. Just... stuff. Nothing you need to worry about. forces a smile when he raises an eyebrow.
leans in closer, his voice firm Mia, don't play games with me. I can see right through you.
It's just... everything feels like it's falling apart, okay? I can't keep up with all of this anymore!
grabs Mia's hand, his touch firm yet gentle Look, I understand that things have been overwhelming for you lately.
She looks at him, tears welling up in her eyes. "Overwhelming" doesn't even begin to cover it, Hicks. Everything's just... too much!
stands up and walks over to a shelf, grabbing a bottle of wine Come on, let's have a drink. Sometimes, it helps to just unwind and talk things out.
Takes the bottle of wine from Hicks, taking a deep breath. Yeah... yeah, that might help.
pours two glasses of wine, handing one to Mia Here, take a sip. Let yourself relax for a moment.
She takes a long sip from the glass, her hands trembling slightly. Thanks, Hicks... I really needed this.
sits down next to Mia, his voice softening Alright, Mia. Now tell me what's been bothering you. I'm here to listen.
takes a deep breath and leans back into the couch It's just... ever since everything went public, I can't help but feel like I'm drowning.
squeezes Mia's hand reassuringly I know it's been tough, but we'll get through this together. You're not alone, Mia.
gulps down the rest of her wine and sets the empty glass on the table Together... she sighs I hope you're right, Hicks. I really do.
stands up and walks over to Mia, his voice determined Mia, I promise you, I'll do whatever it takes to make things right.
Wipes away a tear from her cheek. I appreciate that, Hicks... but words won't be enough. We need action.
grabs Mia's shoulders firmly, his eyes locked onto hers You're right, Mia. Words won't be enough.
swallows hard, looking up at him Then... then what will be enough, Hicks? What will it take?
releases Mia's shoulders and steps back, his voice stern It's going to take some hard work and dedication, Mia.
wipes away more tears I... I'm listening, Hicks. Let's hear it.
pulls out a notebook and pen, flipping to a blank page Alright, Mia. First things first, we need to create a plan.
nods, wiping her tears away A plan... alright, Hicks. Let's hear it.
starts scribbling in the notebook Step one: We need to address the public rumors and clear your name.
wipes her nose with the back of her hand How do we do that, Hicks?
pauses for a moment, tapping the pen against his chin We need to gather evidence, Mia. Evidence to prove your innocence.