Five years later
The panoramic view from the CEO's office was breathtaking—a sprawling tapestry of Parisian rooftops, elegant boulevards, and the shimmering Seine River. Shayera lay languidly on the plush velvet couch, her long, crimson hair cascading around her like a silken waterfall. The sunlight streamed through the floortoceiling windows, illuminating her flawless skin and highlighting the sharp angles of her cheekbones.
She was a vision of understated elegance—a far cry from the frightened, vulnerable girl who had washed ashore five years ago. The weight of those memories still lingered beneath the surface, but they no longer defined her. She had forged a new identity for herself—Phoenix, the enigmatic founder of RHCC, a name whispered with reverence and awe throughout the fashion world.
A faint smile played on her lips as she considered the empire she had built from nothing.
Shayera Lafayette, or Phoenix as she was known in the business world, had indeed built an impressive trifecta of companies in Paris over the past five years. First and foremost was "Le Fleur Gourmand," a sixstar restaurant that had taken the Parisian culinary scene by storm. Within a year of its opening, Le Fleur Gourmand garnered Michelin stars and became the destination for discerning diners worldwide, renowned for its innovative fusion cuisine and impeccable service. Then there was, of course, Rose Haute Couture Company (RHCC), her fashion empire that had rapidly ascended to global fame. RHCC's designs were edgy, luxurious, and fiercely individualistic—a reflection of Phoenix's own enigmatic persona—and were coveted by celebrities and fashionistas alike. Finally, there was "Lumière Bijoux.
Lumière Bijoux, her jewelry company, which had quickly established itself as a purveyor of exquisitely crafted, oneofakind pieces. While not as globally recognized as RHCC, Lumière Bijoux was highly sought after by a select clientele of royalty and high society figures, known for its use of rare and ethically sourced gemstones and innovative designs. All three companies were incredibly successful, generating billions in revenue annually and solidifying Shayera Lafayette's position as one of Paris's most influential and enigmatic figures.
The opulent office remained bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sun, the only movement a gentle rise and fall of the blanket draped over Shayera's form. She lay still on the plush velvet couch, completely lost in slumber. Her long, crimson hair fanned out around her head like a fiery halo, a stark contrast to the pale perfection of her skin.
The PA, a meticulously dressed young woman named Camille Dubois, entered the office with a practiced air of efficiency. She paused just inside the doorway, her expression a mixture of exasperation and weary affection as she surveyed the scene. It was a familiar sight—her boss, Phoenix Lafayette, utterly engrossed in sleep amidst a mountain of paperwork and design sketches.
Camille sighed softly, shaking her head almost imperceptibly.
"Honestly," she murmured to herself.
"The Sleeping Goddess lives up to her name."
"Camille what do you think of this company?" Shayera asked her when she opened her beautiful dark ocean like eyes.
Camille startled slightly, nearly dropping the tablet she was holding. She hadn't realized Shayera had been awake. Recovering quickly, she offered a professional smile.
"RHCC is exceeding all expectations, Phoenix," Camille replied smoothly, her fingers deftly navigating the tablet to display a series of impressive sales figures and glowing reviews.
"The new 'Midnight Bloom' collection is particularly successful. Preorders are through the roof, and social media is buzzing."
She paused, noticing Shayera's gaze fixed on her.
"We're projecting a recordbreaking quarter, potentially surpassing even last year's numbers by fifteen percent."
Camille hesitated for a moment before adding,
"Though… the press is starting to speculate about your absence from public events. They're calling you 'the elusive Phoenix,' and there's growing demand for an interview."
"Camille the name don't you remember you are the one who came up with this name idea when I was only sixteen years old well 17," Shayera said as she turned around leaning on the couch and she sweetly smiled.
"I remember I came up with the company name idea and well you designed everything else," Camille said.
"Mmm that is right," Shayera stood up and grabbed a folder and handed it over to Camille who opened the folder it was turning ownership!
"What…"
"Happy 21st birthday hehe I made your dream come true huh? Now you are fashion icon," Shayera said.
Camille's eyes widened as she scanned the document, the words "Transfer of Ownership" leaping out at her. A wave of disbelief washed over her, quickly followed by a surge of exhilaration. She looked up at Shayera, her expression a mixture of shock and gratitude.
"Phoenix… are you serious?" she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.
Shayera's smile widened, a genuine warmth radiating from her eyes.
"Absolutely. You've been an invaluable asset to RHCC, Camille. You've managed the daytoday operations flawlessly, handled the press with grace, and always anticipated my needs."
She paused, her gaze softening.
"You deserve this. You've always dreamed of running your own fashion house, and now you have the opportunity."
Camille felt tears welling up in her eyes.
"Wait a moment! Why do I feel like you gave up your baby just so you sleep?" Camille asked. Shayera only turned around and she pouted she was so beautiful even when she pouted made one feel dumbfounded.
Shayera's pout deepened, a playful pout that belied the immense power she wielded. She leaned back against the couch, crossing her arms and regarding Camille with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Don't be ridiculous, Camille," she said, her voice laced with amusement. "I haven't given up anything. I've simply… delegated."
She gestured vaguely around the office. "Running a fashion empire is exhausting, you know. All those designs, the marketing campaigns, the endless meetings... It takes a toll." She yawned dramatically, stretching languidly. "A girl needs her rest."
Camille couldn't help but roll her eyes playfully. The 'girl' in question was a shrewd businesswoman who had built an empire from scratch—a woman who rarely showed weakness or vulnerability. She doesn't even go to the meetings or those gala parties extra! My goodness Camille hugged Shayera.
"Thank you but I won't take this company but I want to be w COO.."
Shayera's eyes widened slightly at Camille's declaration, a flicker of surprise crossing her features. She hadn't anticipated this. She'd expected gratitude, perhaps a few heartfelt words, but not a refusal.
"You don't want to take over?" Shayera asked, tilting her head slightly.
"But… you've always said you wanted to run your own fashion house."
Camille pulled back slightly, a determined glint in her eyes.
"I do," she confirmed.
"But I also value our partnership, Phoenix. I don't want to replace you entirely. I want to work alongside you, to support you."
She paused, gathering her thoughts.
"I want to be the Chief Operating Officer—the COO—of RHCC."
"Alright I need to go buy," Shayera said as she walked outside she took a deep breath and a cab took her to jewelry store.