Game Restart

Game Restart
\-Sofia-

My heart raced with bitterness as I drove away from Blake's mansion, my hands tight on the wheel, my decision to leave sudden and silent, no word to anyone.

Why endure that place now? The coincidence of my father's plan unraveling right when Matilda appeared felt like a cruel twist from fate, pushing me to reclaim what was mine.

I checked into the hotel, my steps heavy, my mind swirling with anger and ambition.

Father's marriage scheme was clear, but my own desires burned stronger, to own Blake, his power, his world.

I sank onto the couch, my legs curling under me, my fingers tapping restlessly. Where did it go wrong? From the start, or only when that wench entered?

Scenarios flashed, Blake's distant glances, his late nights, her smug presence. I can't lose him.

Not to her. My thoughts deepened, frustration building, tears pricking my eyes. Then a soft knock sounded, pulling me from my haze.

Room service? I hadn't called. I stood slowly, my body sluggish, opening the door, my breath catching as Father stood there, his face stern.

How did he find me? "Dad, what are you doing here? How did you know?" I asked, shock lacing my voice.

He stepped inside without a word, his presence filling the space, his eyes locking mine.

"So you've grown weak, running from a fight?" His tone cut sharp, anger flashing, hurting my pride deep.

Why say that? I stayed silent, my chest tightening, his words stinging like fire.

"Why are you here?" he pressed, his gaze unrelenting.

I steadied my voice, my hands clenching. "To clear my head, make a new plan."

He glared, fury rising. "Clear your head by abandoning what you want to own?" His question hit hard, my voice shaking as I shouted.

"Everything happened too fast! I don't know what to do!" Tears of rage spilled, my body trembling.

He paused, breathing deep, his tone firm. "No, you just didn't handle it right. Why hide everything from me?"

I wiped my face, bitterness surging. "I thought she was a simple human I could crush. Not a hunter with special blood!" My admission broke free, sobs mixing with anger.

He waited, then spoke calmly. "We'll win. First, return to Blake's mansion." Shock froze me.

Return? "How? Why?" I asked, curiosity sharp.

"To stay close, know his moves. If word spreads you're gone, you fight from weakness." His logic clicked, my mind clearing.

He's right. "Okay, Dad. Then what's next after returning there?" I pressed.

"I'll handle the rest. Act normal with him, wait for my orders." I nodded, agreement solid. He stood, approaching, his eyes intense.

"I'm a lion. You're my daughter. We don't enter battles we lose." His words ignited me, strength flooding back, my heart fierce. I can fight again. He left, the room lighter, my body relaxing into sleep's calm embrace.

Morning came quick, my resolve iron as I dressed, checked out, driving to Blake's mansion, my posture straight, my smile ready.

Everyone stared in awe as I arrived, their faces surprised, except Jaxon's unreadable mask.

We exchanged greetings, my voice steady, turning away to see Blake in his grey suit, stepping out.

"Good morning, Blake!" I called sharply.

He glanced calmly, faint smile crossing his lips. "Good morning, Sofia." Then he entered his car, driving off alone.

Jaxon followed in another vehicle, leaving me pondering. Why no questions about last night? Does he know about Dad?

Worry flickered, but gladness won, I was back without fuss. "Now, let's begin the game!" I said to myself, smiling big as I entered the house.

★★★

\-Matilda-

My entire body was filled with positive energy as morning light filtered in, pulling me from sleep early, my body buzzing, alive and eager for the day.

Why do I feel this strong? The coincidence of my powers awakening right before this big presentation felt like fate handing me an edge, sharpening my focus.

I slipped out of bed, my feet padding softly across the floor, brushing my teeth quickly, splashing water on my face, my reflection smiling back confident, as I had my bath.

I dressed in my work blouse, buttoning it neatly, smoothing my skirt, grabbing my bag with a light step.

Leaving the apartment, I headed to the bus station, but a cab pulled up instantly, the driver waving me in.

Twenty minutes later, the ride stayed calm, my mind clear, a strange joy bubbling inside.

Why so perfect today? At SCN's entrance, I stepped out, my stride sure, knowing this place held endless twists, but I was ready now, unbreakable.

I walked to my department, pushing open the newsroom door, spotting Ruby already at her desk, her fingers tapping keys.

"Good morning, Ruby!" I called, my smile wide, genuine.

She looked up, her grin matching mine. "Morning! You glow today, perfect for our pitch!" Her enthusiasm sparked mine, my heart lifting.

I dropped my bag on my desk, the strap sliding off my shoulder smoothly, then moved to her side.

She handed me the finalized papers, our hard work in crisp sheets. "We've got this, but some parts still need polish, right?" I said, concern flickering briefly.

She nodded, eyes bright. "Absolutely, but you and me? We'll nail it!" Her optimism washed over me, doubts vanishing.

We laughed, the sound light and shared, linking arms as we walked to the presentation room, our steps synced.

Staff milled about, all set for their turns, tension thick but mine steady. We have to stun them.

At the door, an assistant collected our copy quick, my fingers releasing the pages firmly, then we sat, my posture straight, Ruby beside me whispering encouragements.

Then Blake entered with Director Quinn, his presence commanding, my pulse quickening slightly.

The session started smooth, groups rising one by one, but shock hit when Sofia and Tyson took the stage, their slides flawless, words sharp, stealing the room's breath.

They're too good. Worry gnawed at me, my hands clasping tight under the table, Ruby squeezing my arm.

Our turn came, voices calling "Matilda and Ruby!" but Director Quinn halted us, his eyes narrowing.

"Why team up? Can't you pair with others?" His tone bit, staring us down. I opened my mouth to defend, fire rising, but Blake's voice cut in, calm, graceful, powerful.

"No rule blocks synced partners. Let's hear them." His words flowed effortless, authority wrapping every syllable, silencing doubt.

Director Quinn frowned, knowing truth when spoken, but nodded stiff. My gaze caught Sofia's, her eyes darting between Blake and me, filled with venom, jealousy sharp.

She sees it too. We started strong, my voice steady on slides, Ruby adding flair, the room leaning in, nods of approval.

Flowing perfect, until Director Quinn raised his hand again, stopping us mid-point. "Solid work, but who presents this live?" His stare bored into me, expectant.

Everyone turned, breaths held, pressure mounting. He wants Sofia or Zara named, his favorites, but no.

My heart pounded, resolve steeling. "I will be the presenter!" I declared, voice clear, bold. Gasps rippled, shock wide in every eye.