No Right

Nadia POV: I can hear the heavy footsteps of my father pounding after me, his face twisted in anger as I make my way to Leo's office, my heart racing with a mix of frustration and defiance. I reach the office door and whip around just as he catches me. “Nadia, you can't just walk away from this!” He shouts, his voice echoing down the corridor. Glaring at him, my patience is wearing thin. “f**k. Off” I snap, the words leaving my mouth with fierce intensity. “I’m done with your bullshit today.” He stares at me, taken aback, but the anger in his eyes only deepens. “You don't get to shut me out like this. I have a right to know what going on in your life.” “You don’t” I retort, pushing open the door to Leos office and stepping inside. The door slams shut behind me, sealing off confrontation as I lean against it, catching my breath. Now, I feel the fury boiling inside me. How dare he act like he has any right to know a damn thing. Sixteen years of silence, before that the numerous years he cheated on my mother, leading her down her own dark path of alcoholism. What ultimately killed her. Then he has the audacity to demand to know about me? How can he demand transparency in a life that he had no part in. I can hardly believe he even believes he has the authority to question me after it all. “I can't believe him!” I exclaim, pacing the room like a caged animal. “How can he act like he's entitled to any part of my life?” Cleo watches me intently, arms crossed, nodding as I vent. “I get it Nadia, he's been a jerk to you.” “That's putting it lightly” I scowl. “He’s used to being in charge” she reminds me gently. “Maybe he cares in his own way.” I scoff, raking my hand through my hair. “Care? Is that what you call it? He’s more interested in control than being a father, always has been. I dread to think what he would do if he knew about my success with my business.” Cleo leans forward, curiosity flickering in her eyes. “So, are you going to tell him about your success? Your business is thriving, Nadia. That’s a big deal!” I shake my head vehemently. “No way. I refuse to give him that satisfaction. I’ve done this on my own, and I’ll keep it that way.” Cleo raises an eyebrow, a hint of a smile teasing her lips. “You’re fierce, I’ll give you that. But don’t you think he deserves to know, at least a little?” I stop pacing, my frustration is boiling over. “Deserve? He hasn’t earned the right to be part of my life. Not after everything, especially seeing where Jamie is now. I won’t give him the chance to twist my achievements into something he can brag about. I’m not back for my father.” “Then what are you back for?” Cleo asks, looking unsure and slightly wary. Just then, Leo enters the room, his presence commanding. He leans against the doorframe, arms crossed, studying us with a knowing look. “This about David?” he asks, cutting straight to the chase. I roll my eyes, the mere mention of my ex igniting a wave of irritation within me. “David? He’s just another reminder of how messed up things can get. I don’t want to talk about him.” Leo straightens, concern etching his features. “Nadia, if he’s still in your life, we need to discuss what precautions you’re taking. You can’t just brush it off.” A knot tightens my stomach. “He’s forcing himself back into my life. I’m handling it, Leo. I’ve got my business to focus on, and I’m not going to let him disrupt my life again.” “Handling isn’t enough. I need to know what steps you’re taking. If he’s a threat, we need to be prepared” Leo replies calmly, his care for me burning bright. Cleo interjects; her voice steady. “Nadia, you can’t ignore this. If there’s any chance he could show up or cause trouble, you need to protect yourself.” I huff, crossing my arms defiantly. “I’ve changed my number, name. He knows nothing about Nadia, only Alana.” Leo nods, but concerns lingers on his face. “That’s a good start, but I want you to take it further. You need to be vigilant. If he’s been a problem in the past, don’t underestimate him.” I take a deep breath, the weight of their concern settling heavily on my shoulders. “I know, I know. I thought success was meant to make life easier..” I trail off, sadness bearing down on me. Cleo reaches out, placing a hand on mine. “You’re not alone in this, Nadia. We’re here for you. Just remember that you have people who care about you.” I nod, grateful for her support, but frustration still lingers. “I just want to live my life.. Is that too much to ask?” Leo’s expression softens. “No, it’s not. Just keep your guard up, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything. You know I’m always here for you.” I appreciate his words, but they feel like a double-edged sword. I know he means well, but the weight of his protectiveness after so long along is suffocating me. I want to be independent, to prove that I can handle my own life like i have been doing for years unnoticed. Cleo nods, her expression softening. “You’ve grown so much, Nadia. You’re not that scared girl anymore. You’ve built something incredible, and you should be proud of that.” I let out a small laugh, the tension in the room easing slightly. “Proud? Sure, but it’s hard to celebrate when I feel like I’m constantly looking over my shoulder.” Leo shifts his weight, brow furrowing. “What about your business? How’s it going? I’ve heard good things, but I want to know how you feel about it.” Smirking as I think about the numbers in my accounts I shrug “it's going well, we far out did our competitors this year.” Cleo leans in, her eyes bright with encouragement. “That’s amazing! You deserve this success, Nadia. Don’t let anyone take that away from you.” I smile, feeling a flicker of pride. “Thanks, Cleo. It just feels like every time I take a step forward, there seems to be something come up threatening to set me back. I can’t shake the feeling that David is just waiting for the right moment to strike.” Leo’s expression hardens. “If he’s a threat, we’ll deal with it. You know that, right? You’re not alone in this fight.” Cleo stands, moving to my side. “Then let’s focus on the positive. What’s next for your business? Are you planning any new projects?” I take a deep breath, excitement for my work sparking new energy within me. “Actually, yes! I’ve been brainstorming ideas for a new marketing campaign that could really elevate my brand. I want to reach a broader audience and showcase what I can do.” Leo raises an eyebrow, intrigued. “That sounds promising. What’s the angle?” I lean forward, passion bubbling up. “I want to highlight the stories behind my clients, showcasing their journeys and how my services have helped them grow. It’s not just about the product; it’s about the people. I think that personal touch will resonate more with potential clients.” Cleo claps her hands, enthusiasm infectious. “That’s brilliant! People connect with stories. It’s what makes your work unique.” Leo nods, a proud smile creeping onto his face. “I like that. It’s a smart approach, and it shows you’re not just in it for the money. You genuinely care about your clients.” A swell of pride washes over me at their encouragement. “Thanks, guys. I just want to keep pushing forward and not let anything hold me back.” Cleo glances at Leo, her expression serious. “But you have to promise us you’ll stay vigilant about David. We can’t take any chances.” I sigh, the weight of her words sinking in. “I will.” Leo steps closer, his voice firm yet gentle. “You’re stronger than you think, Nadia. You’ve overcome so much already. Don’t let him define your future. You’re the one in control now.” I nod, feeling determination ignites within me. “Like he even has a chance.” Cleo smiles, eyes sparkling with pride. “That’s the spirit! Let’s focus on your business and the amazing things you’re doing.” Before a smirk crosses her face. “Now..tell me about you and Zak.”