As the evening unfolded, Michael and I found ourselves in a secluded corner of the reception hall, away from the curious eyes and whispers that seemed to follow us. It was a comforting escape from the earlier confrontation—a chance to breathe and be myself without the looming shadow of my past.
Michael was unlike anyone I’d ever met. He was charming, confident without being arrogant, and genuinely interested in what I had to say. We talked about everything, from my adventures in the skies to his life as a venture capitalist. There was an ease to our conversation that made me feel like I’d known him for years rather than minutes.
“You know,” he said, stirring his drink thoughtfully, “I wasn’t always in this position. My father built the company from the ground up. He taught me the value of hard work and humility.”
