I Hate To Love You

Lisa's fingers danced across the canvas, vibrant colors bursting forth as she lost herself in the creative process. Her art studio, nestled in the heart of the coastal town, was her sanctuary.

The scent of turpentine and linseed oil filled the air, transporting her to a world of imagination. Lisa's passion for art was palpable, evident in every bold stroke.

As she worked, the sounds of the town filtered in, seagulls crying, waves crashing, and the occasional chatter of passersby.

"Aria, you're a genius!"

her best friend, Tabitha exclaimed,

entering the studio with a tray of freshly brewed coffee.

Lisa smiled,

stepping back to admire her latest piece.

"Thanks, tabby. Just trying to capture the essence of the ocean."

Tabitha set the coffee down, her eyes scanning the studio.

"New commission?"

Lisa nodded.

"Local gallery wants a series of coastal scenes."

Tabitha's eyes sparkled.

"You'll make a killing."

Lisa chuckled.

"Just trying to make ends meet."

As they chatted, the doorbell above the studio entrance jingled, signaling the arrival of customers. Lisa's mother, Rosé, emerged from the back room, warm smile at the ready.

"Welcome to our humble studio!"

The afternoon passed in a flurry of activity – tourists browsing, art enthusiasts inquiring about commissions, and Lisa's hands moving deftly across canvases.

During a brief lull, Tabitha leaned in, voice lowered.

"Hey, lisa, I think someone's coming to visit."

Lisa raised an eyebrow.

"Who?"

Tabitha grinned mischievously.

"Guess."

Lisa's curiosity piqued, she glanced toward the door.

That's when she saw him – Alex, the charming and handsome son of a local fisherman. Aria's heart skipped a beat as their eyes met. He has been her crush for years, better put one-sided crush, they met during art classes

Alex sauntered in, his gaze sweeping the studio.

"Wow, Lisa, your work is incredible."

Lisa's cheeks flushed.

"Thanks, Alex."

Alex approached her latest piece, his eyes scanning the canvas.

"This one's stunning. You capture the ocean's essence perfectly."

Lisa's blush deepened.

"Thanks... it means a lot coming from you."

Alex turned, his smile warm.

"I'm serious. You're talented."

Lisa's heart fluttered.

Tabitha nudged her playfully.

"I'll leave you two alone."

As Tabitha slipped away, Lisa felt Alex's gaze linger on her.

"Would you like a tour of the studio?" Lisa offered.

Alex nodded.

"I'd love to."

As they strolled through the studio, Lisa pointed out her favorite pieces, sharing stories behind each artwork. Alex listened intently, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest.

Aria found herself relaxing in his presence.

The studio's doorbell jingled again, signaling new customers.

"I should get back to work," lisa said.

Alex smiled

"I'll let you get back to creating magic."

As he left, Aria couldn't help but feel a flutter in her chest

*T$J companies unlimited*

Jayden stood at the floor-to-ceiling windows of his high-rise office, gazing out at the coastal town's picturesque landscape. His sharp eyes scanned the rooftops, his mind focused on expansion.

Jayden's assistant, Rachel, entered with a stack of files.

"Sir, the Jacobs Art Studio's financials."

Jayden's gaze narrowed.

"Tell me, Rachel, what makes this studio worth acquiring?"

Rachel summarized the studio's strengths and weaknesses.

Jayden's eyes sparkled with interest.

"Schedule a meeting with Lisa Jacobs"

Rachel nodded.

"Already done, sir. Tonight at 5 PM."

Jayden's gaze returned to the window.

*The Jacobs Art Studio*

Lisa was oblivious to the impending storm.

At her studio, she was lost in creative bliss, Alex's compliments still echoing in her mind.

As she painted, the doorbell above the entrance jingled, signaling that the costumers were leaving.

She sighed in relief as she was done for the day but she heard her mother welcoming visitors

Rosé welcomed the visitors.

"Lisa dear, you have a visitor that is here to see you privately!" She stressed the 'privately'

Lisa smiled, her heart skipping a beat.

"Alex again?"

Rosé chuckled.

"No, someone new."

Lisa's curiosity piqued, she turned to face the newcomer.

As Lisa turned, her eyes met a tall, imposing figure. He stood at the entrance, his piercing gaze sweeping the studio. Lisa felt an inexplicable shiver.

"Welcome to Jacobs Art Studio," Rosé said, approaching him.

The stranger's eyes locked onto Lisa's,his expression unreadable. "Thank you," he replied, his deep voice commanding attention. Lisa's instincts screamed warning. There was something about him, something that made her feel vulnerable.

"Can I help you?"Lisa asked, trying to sound calm.

The stranger's gaze lingered on her. "I'm Jayden stone," he said, his voice dripping with confidence. "I've heard great things about your work, Lisa.

Lisa's wariness intensified. "How can I help you, Mr. Stone?"

Jayden's smile was a subtle, calculated curve. "I'd like to discuss a business proposal."

Lisa's heart sank. "What kind of proposal?"

Jayden's eyes seemed to bore into her soul. "I'm interested in acquiring this studio."

Lisa's world tilted. "No," she said, her voice firm.

Jayden's eyebrows rose. "I'm willing to offer a substantial sum."

Lisa's determination hardened. "This studio is not for sale."

Jayden's gaze narrowed. "We'll see about that."

Lisa felt a surge of defiance. Who did this man think he was, walking into her studio and trying to buy it out from under her?

"I'm afraid it's not up for discussion, Mr.stone, Lisa said, her voice steady.

Jayden's eyes flashed with amusement. "I think it is."

The air seemed to vibrate with tension as they locked gazes

TBC