Few months later, the  Artistica’s construction site stood like a testament to efficiency and precision. The buildings had risen faster than expected, but not carelessly. Sky-high cranes now rested idle, their purpose fulfilled for the moment, while crews polished the final touches to the steel-reinforced walls and glass facades that shimmered under the morning sun.
Selene stepped out of the SUV, clipboard in hand, her shoes crunching lightly on the gravel. Her tailored beige pants and black blouse stood in stark contrast to the dusty, hard-edged world around her, but she walked with quiet authority—unbothered, focused.
Sebastian was already there, talking to one of the engineers. He turned as she approached, his face unreadable beneath dark sunglasses.
“You’re early,” she said, scanning the checklist without looking at him.
“Old habit,” he replied. “Wanted to make sure the site looked impressive enough for you.”
“It does,” she said coolly, eyes sweeping the frame of the tallest building. “You’ve pushed the timeline fast, but I can tell the integrity of the structure wasn’t compromised.”
Sebastian gave a slight smile. “Thanks to your design and a very motivated contractor.”
Selene nodded, moving forward to inspect the newly installed ventilation system on the ground floor. Sebastian walked beside her, his steps just slightly too close, his voice edging from professional into personal.
“So…” he began, “I’ve been meaning to ask—why didn’t you reply to my message?”
Selene didn’t break stride. “Which one?”
“The one I sent after our dinner.”
“I read it.”
“But you didn’t answer.”
“Because it didn’t need an answer,” she replied crisply, stepping into the elevator shaft scaffolding and checking the alignment. “You apologized. I acknowledged it internally. End of story.”
He followed, trying to match her pace. “And why did you leave so early that night? You barely gave me a chance to explain.”
Selene turned to him for a split second, brows lifting. “Explain what, Sebastian? That you ghosted me years ago, ran into an old flame during dinner, and still expected me to play nice over steak?” she said that lines in a normal tone 
“That’s not fair—”
“What’s not fair,” she cut in, “is that you think closure is something I owe you now. I’m here for the project. Not the past Sebastian please remember that.”
They climbed a level, the view stretching wider with each step. Workers greeted them respectfully, stepping aside as the two architects moved through.
Sebastian was quiet for a moment, watching her examine the building’s support beams and nod in satisfaction.
When they reached the top floor—still raw with exposed wiring and dusty tiles—Selene stopped near the edge, overlooking the city below.
“I’ll say this once,” she said, turning to face him. “I won’t be making regular visits here anymore.”
Sebastian blinked. “Why not? We’re just getting started with phase two.”
“My schedule’s changed,” she said calmly. “The partnership with Skylar Corporation is moving forward. Mondiego Group needs me to lead that expansion. We’re building a new logistics facility in Hillwood, and Skylar Corporation has asked for direct collaboration as they are also interested in expanding their logistics in Central City.”
His expression shifted instantly—something tightened behind his eyes. “So, you’ll be working closely with Clark of Skylar Corporation.”
“Yes,” she replied, unfazed. “And before your imagination gets creative, it’s a professional partnership. Skylar Corporation is serious about their business, and so am I.”
Sebastian’s jaw worked slightly, but he didn’t speak. She continued before he could.
“In my absence, my deputy architect, Eliane Torres, will oversee site matters here. She’s capable and experienced. You’ll work with her to complete phase two.”
“I see,” he said, voice lower now. “So you’re handing this off.”
“I’m delegating,” Selene corrected. “Because that’s what good leadership looks like. And frankly, this partnership will only succeed if both parties do their part.”
She stepped forward and handed him a revised project schedule, her tone firm. “Make sure your team follows this. Stay on schedule. Maintain safety protocols. And deliver as promised.”
He took the folder, but didn’t look at it. Instead, he studied her face—cool, confident, unshaken.
“You’ve changed,” he said softly.
“No,” she replied. “I’ve grown. There’s a difference.”
A long pause passed between them—one filled with unspoken regrets and missed chances.
Then she turned back, footsteps clicking against the concrete.
“I’ll be in Central City and Hillwood for the rest of the quarter,” she said over her shoulder. “If there’s anything urgent, Eliane knows how to reach me. Otherwise, I expect progress reports every Monday.”
“Selene…”
She paused at the elevator platform but didn’t turn around.
“Do your part, Sebastian,” she said. “I’ll do mine. That’s how partnerships work.”
And with that, she stepped into the service elevator, leaving him behind on the unfinished floor with the wind blowing softly around him and nothing but her words ringing in his ears.