The moment Zafir adjourned the meeting, the board members wasted no time leaving. Some exchanged glances as they exited, others muttered amongst themselves, and a few even offered Nadia approving nods.
She had won.
But she wasn't foolish enough to think this battle was over.
The real war had just begun.
And she knew exactly who would come for her first.
She barely had time to gather her documents before a smooth, mocking voice slid into her ears.
"Well, well, if it isn't the princess of Al-Fayed Enterprises."
Nadia didn't flinch. She finished placing her papers into her folder, then straightened, finally turning to face the man who had spoken.
Kareem.
She had never met him in person before, but his reputation preceded him.
And now, standing before her, dressed in an expensive navy-blue suit, dark eyes gleaming with something far too entertained for the current situation, she understood why so many people fell into his trap.
Tall. Handsome. A smooth-talking devil.
But Nadia had seen many men like him before.
And none had ever impressed her.
His smirk widened as he studied her, his gaze leisurely taking her in. "I have to admit, I never paid much attention to you before. But now…" He let out a low chuckle. "I see why everyone's suddenly interested."
She didn't dignify that with a response. Instead, she met his gaze, unwavering. "If you're done talking, I have work to do."
Kareem let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "Oh, I like you already."
Beside him, Sara looked like she had swallowed a lemon.
Nadia turned her gaze to the other woman, who was clearly fuming.
"Don't think this changes anything," Sara snapped, stepping closer. "You got lucky today, that's all. This isn't over."
Nadia exhaled through her nose, her patience thinning.
"Lucky?" She let out a small, humorless laugh. "Sara, I outplayed you."
Sara's expression twisted with rage, but before she could retort, Kareem cut in.
"Ladies, ladies," he drawled, amusement dancing in his eyes. "No need to fight over me."
Sara's glare could have melted steel. "Shut up, Kareem."
Nadia rolled her eyes. "This has nothing to do with you."
Kareem smirked. "That's a shame. I was rather enjoying myself."
Nadia shot him an unimpressed look. "I don't have time to entertain your delusions."
Kareem placed a hand over his chest, feigning hurt. "So cruel."
Sara's expression only darkened further as she watched their exchange.
She hated that Kareem was paying any attention to Nadia.
And Nadia knew it.
Which was why she turned to Sara with a small, satisfied smile.
"I suggest you focus less on me and more on your own game," she said lightly. "Because next time? I won't be this kind."
Then, without sparing them another glance, she turned and walked away.
And behind her, she could practically hear Sara seething.
And Kareem laughing.