FAKE FACADE

Chapter 1

Denzel stood in the foyer, briefcase in hand, ready to head out the door to start his day. He checked his watch for what felt like the hundredth time, anxious to get to the office and tackle the mountain of work waiting for him. He took a deep breath, preparing himself for the chaos that lay ahead. The morning sunlight streaming through the window highlighted the dust particles dancing in the air, and the sound of birds chirping outside created a sense of calm that Denzel wished he could bottle up and take with him to the office.

He wore a crisp, white dress shirt with a conservative collar, made of high-quality cotton that accentuated his broad shoulders and chest. The shirt was tailored to fit him perfectly, with a subtle sheen that hinted at its luxurious fabric. The sleeves were long and slim-fitting, ending in cuffs that were fastened with elegant silver cufflinks.

His navy blue suit was a masterclass in tailoring, with a fitted waist and shoulders that seemed to broaden his already impressive physique. The fabric was a rich, dark blue that seemed almost black in certain lighting conditions, and it was woven with a subtle texture that gave it depth and visual interest. The suit was single-breasted, with a classic two-button front and a fitted silhouette that accentuated Michael's athletic build.

His tie was a subtle pattern of dark blues and grays, with a texture that seemed almost silky to the touch. The knot was precise and perfectly symmetrical, adding a touch of elegance to Denzel's overall appearance. The tie was slim and modern, with a subtle sheen that caught the light as he moved.

His black leather belt was cinched at his waist, holding up his matching navy blue trousers with a simple yet effective silver buckle. The trousers were slim-fitting and tapered, ending in a crisp crease that seemed to sharpen Denzel's already chiseled features.

On his feet, Denzel wore black dress shoes that were polished to a high shine. The shoes were made of rich, supple leather that seemed to mold to his feet, and they had a subtle brogue detailing that added a touch of sophistication to their classic design.

On his wrist, Denzel wore a simple leather strap watch, its classic design and understated elegance perfectly complementing his overall appearance. The watch was a subtle accessory, yet it seemed to add a touch of authority and gravitas to Denzel's already commanding presence.

Overall, Denzel's outfit was a masterclass in understated elegance and classic style, perfectly suited to a successful businessman heading to an important meeting. Well he's one of the richest businessman in New York.

Just as he reached for the door handle, he heard a usual familiar voice behind him. "Denzel, wait!" It was Nadetta,his wife, her voice firm but gentle, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

Denzel turned to see Nadetta and their daughter, Angel, standing in the kitchen doorway, looking at him with expectant eyes. Angel was bouncing up and down, her blonde pigtails bobbing with each movement, she's 17, while Nadetta leaned against the doorframe, her arms crossed over her chest.

"What's up?" Denzel asked, trying to hide his impatience. He knew he was running late, and every minute counted.

"We made breakfast," Nadetta said, holding up a plate of scrambled eggs and toast. The aroma wafted through the air, making Denzel's stomach growl with hunger. "We thought you could eat with us before you leave."

Denzel hesitated, looking at his watch again. He really didn't have time for this. But the look on Nadetta's face told him that this was important. She had that determined glint in her eye, the one that said she wouldn't take no for an answer.

"Okay, fine," he said, putting down his briefcase. "But just for a minute."

Angel squealed with delight and ran over to him, throwing her arms around his shoulder. "Dad, I made your favorite breakfast!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining with pride.

Denzel smiled, feeling a pang of guilt for his initial hesitation. He hugged Angel back. "Thanks, kiddo. I'm starving."

"It's Angel dad not kiddo,I'm 17 for goodness sake" Angel whined and he laughed out loud.

Nadetta handed him a plate of food, and Denzel dug in, savoring the taste of the scrambled eggs and toast. The eggs were fluffy, the toast was crispy, and the coffee was hot and strong - just the way he liked it. Angel chattered excitedly about her day, telling him about her plans for school and her friends, while Denzel listened intently, feeling grateful for this small moment of peace before the chaos of the day began.

As they finished up, Nadetta reached out and put a hand on his arm. "Have a good day, honey. We'll see you tonight." Her eyes locked onto his, and for a moment, Denzel felt like everything was going to be okay.

Denzel smiled, feeling a sense of appreciation for his family. "I will. Thanks for breakfast, guys. It was just what I needed." He hugged Angel again, then kissed Nadetta on the cheek. "I'll see you tonight."

With that, he grabbed his briefcase and headed out of the door, feeling a sense of determination wash over him. He was ready to take on the day.

"I'll go get ready for work while you get ready for school too Angel" Nadetta said and Angel nodded.

**

{ NEXUS ENTERPRISES}

As Nadetta arrived at her place of work, she was greeted by the familiar sight of the bustling office building. She stepped out of the car and onto the sidewalk, taking a deep breath of the crisp morning air. The sun was shining, casting a warm glow over the scene.

Nadetta smiled to herself as she walked towards the entrance, her heels clicking on the pavement. She was dressed in a sharp, navy blue pencil skirt that hugged her curves in all the right places, paired with a crisp, white blouse that accentuated her toned arms. Her long, dark hair was pulled back into a sleek, low bun, and her bright, hazel eyes sparkled with confidence.

She wore a tailored, fitted blazer that added a touch of sophistication to her outfit, and her statement silver necklace added a hint of glamour. Her high heels were a deep, rich brown that complemented her outfit perfectly, and her classic, leather briefcase was full of notes and presentations.

As she pushed open the door, she was enveloped in the hum of conversation and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. She nodded to the receptionist, who greeted her with a friendly smile.

"Good morning, Nadetta! You've got a busy day ahead. Want a coffee?"

Nadetta nodded, her eyes scanning the room. "Yes, I do. But I'm ready for it."

She made her way to her office, exchanging greetings with her colleagues along the way. Her workspace was tidy and organized, with a stunning view of the city skyline.

Nadetta took a moment to collect her thoughts, sipping her coffee and reviewing her schedule for the day. She had a series of meetings and presentations, but she was feeling focused and energized.

With a sense of determination, Nadetta dove into her work, ready to tackle whatever challenges came her way. She was a force to be reckoned with, and she knew it.

As she settled into her chair, Nadetta's assistant, Rachel, poked her head into the office. "Good morning, Nadetta! I've got your schedule for the day right here."

Nadetta nodded, taking the folder from Rachel. "Thanks, Rachel. What's the first meeting?"

"You've got a team meeting at 9am to discuss the Smith account," Rachel replied. "Then you've got a conference call with marketing at 10:30am."

Nadetta nodded, scanning the schedule. "Okay, got it. Anything else I need to know?"

Rachel hesitated. "Well, there is one thing. The CEO wants to see you in his office at 2pm."

Nadetta's heart skipped a beat. A meeting with the CEO was never a good sign. "Do you know what it's about?"

Rachel shook her head. "No, I don't. But I'm sure it'll be fine. You're doing a great job, Nadetta."

Nadetta smiled, trying to reassure herself. She was doing a great job. She had nothing to worry about.

With a deep breath, Nadetta stood up and headed to her first meeting. She was ready to tackle whatever the day threw her way.

As she walked to the conference room, she couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. She had worked hard to get where she was, and she wasn't going to let anything bring her down.

The team meeting was productive, and Nadetta felt confident as she left the conference room. She was on top of her game, and nothing could stop her.

But as she walked back to her office, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. The meeting with the CEO loomed in her mind, and she couldn't help but wonder what it was about.

As Nadetta walked back to her office, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. The meeting with the CEO loomed in her mind, and she couldn't help but wonder what it was about.

She tried to focus on her work, but her mind kept wandering. She was usually confident and composed, but the uncertainty of the meeting was getting to her.

Nadetta's phone suddenly buzzed on her desk, breaking her concentration. She glanced down to see a text from her boss, Julian: The CEO himself

"Nadetta, can you come to my office? I have something important to discuss with you."

Nadetta's heart skipped a beat as she wondered what this could be about.

When she arrived, Julian was sitting behind his desk, a warm smile on his face. "Ah, Nadetta, thanks for coming. I have some exciting news to share with you."

Nadetta took a seat, her eyes locking onto Julian's. She couldn't help but notice how handsome he looked in his tailored suit.

"What is it?" she asked, trying to sound professional.

"We've been considering you for a major business proposal, we're going on a business trip for a month in paris" Julian began. "One of our biggest clients is looking for a new marketing strategy, and we think you're the perfect person to lead the pitch."

Nadetta's eyes widened in surprise. This was a huge opportunity, one that could make or break her career.

"Wow, thank you for considering me," she said, trying to sound calm.

Julian leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving hers. "We'll be discussing the details in a meeting tomorrow at 2 PM. I want you to be prepared to present your ideas and strategy."

Nadetta nodded, her mind already racing with ideas and concepts. She couldn't believe that Julian was trusting her with this project.

"I won't let you down," she promised, her voice filled with determination.

Julian smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I know you won't, Nadetta. You're one of our best team members."

Nadetta felt a flutter in her chest at the praise. She couldn't help but wonder if Julian saw her as more than just an employee. The truth is she has a huge crush on him but does that even make sense, she's married.

"Thank you, sir," she said, standing up to leave.

Julian stood up too, his eyes locked onto hers. "I'm looking forward to seeing your presentation tomorrow, Alexandra."

Alexandra nodded, feeling a spark of electricity between them. She left Julian's office feeling both excited and nervous, knowing that this was her chance to shine.

Her mind suddenly went to their one month trip and she heave a big sigh,will her husband even allow?

**