His Crush, His Brother's wife

Chapter Five

The following morning, Shaun couldn't wait to share the good news with Gabriel when he came into his room. His excitement was palpable as he recounted his evening with Luna.

“Gabriel, you won’t believe it! I had dinner with Luna, the beautiful woman who drove me home days ago. She’s incredible,” Shaun said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Gabriel smiled, happy to see his brother so animated. “Tell me more about her.” he said as he handed Shaun his pills.

Shaun’s voice was filled with excitement as he described Luna’s beauty and kindness, her passion for storytelling, and her dedication to her work. “She’s not just beautiful, Gabriel. She’s smart, driven, and she genuinely cares about making a difference. I think I love her.”

Gabriel listened intently, but a flicker of concern crossed his face as he served Shaun’s breakfast. “Shaun, I’m really happy for you, but don’t you think this is all happening a bit fast? You’ve only just met her.”

Shaun’s expression softened. “I know it seems quick, but I feel a real connection with her. It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this way about anyone….or anything.”

Gabriel sighed, his protective instincts kicking in. “I just don’t want you to get hurt. What if she’s only interested in your wealth? You’ve been through so much already.”

Shaun shook his head, his resolve unwavering. “Luna isn’t like that, Gabriel. She didn’t even know who I was when she helped me. She’s genuine. I can feel it.”

Gabriel placed a hand on Shaun’s shoulder, his eyes filled with concern. “I trust your judgment, Shaun. Just promise me you’ll be careful.”

Shaun nodded, appreciating his brother’s concern. “I promise, Gabriel. But I really believe Luna is different. She’s special.”

Gabriel smiled, albeit warily. “Alright, I’ll trust you on this. Just remember, I’m here for you, no matter what.”

Shaun's face lit up with gratitude. “That means a lot to me, Gabriel,” he said, noticing his brother was all dressed up. “Ready for work?”

“Yes,” Gabriel replied, though a flicker of worry clouded his eyes.

“What's the matter?”

“There's a meeting tomorrow,” Gabriel admitted. “I need the board's approval for our next project.”

“That's good. Your projects are always impressive.”

“Luke will be there. He still wants to be President of Revolution Designs and will oppose me at every turn. I have Mum's full support, but I can't be sure about Dad and the board.”

“Funny how Dad wants his illegitimate son to own something I've worked so hard for all these years. The man hasn't even been CEO, and he wants the presidency,” Shaun scoffed. “Is Luke even sorry for what he did? He was the one who tampered with those damn machines before I touched them.”

Gabriel wished he had an answer but remained silent. Shaun noticed his brother's unease. “Is there anything I can do?”

“Can you come to the office tomorrow afternoon?” Gabriel asked, his voice tinged with pain.

“That's not a problem,” Shaun smiled. “I'd do anything for you.”

“I wonder what I'd do without you,” Gabriel mused.

“You'll be just fine,” Shaun reassured him, then shifted the conversation to Luna. As they talked, Shaun's excitement was infectious, and Gabriel couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, Luna was the person who could bring some much-needed light into Shaun's life.

After eavesdropping on her sons, Lin sat in her elegantly decorated study, her mind racing with thoughts about Luna. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this young woman than met the eye. She rejected her job offer but accepted dinner with Shaaun at the slightest opportunity, she thought, sighing with worry. Lin became determined to find out the truth about Luna’s intentions. She decided to visit Crystal Lake herself, under the guise of a casual diner.

The next evening, Lin arrived at the restaurant, her presence commanding attention as she walked in. She was dressed in a sophisticated yet understated outfit, blending in with the upscale clientele. She requested a table near the back, where she could observe without being noticed.

Luna was busy attending to customers, her natural grace and warm smile making her a favorite among the patrons. Lin watched her closely, noting the way she interacted with people, her genuine kindness evident in every gesture.

As the evening progressed, Lin called for Luna to attend to her table. Luna approached, her professional demeanor masking the surprise she felt at seeing Lin again.

“Good evening, Mrs. Xu. How can I assist you tonight?” Luna asked politely.

“Good evening, Luna. I wanted to thank you personally for your discretion and professionalism towards my son’s behavior,” Lin said, her tone softer than before.

“Thank you, ma'am. But I was just doing my job,” Luna replied, maintaining her composure.

“I’ve been thinking about our conversation and your decision to decline my offer,” Lin continued. “I respect your integrity, and I wanted to get to know you better.”

Luna was taken aback but nodded. “I appreciate that, Mrs. Xu.”

“Please, sit with me for a moment,” Lin said, gesturing to the chair opposite her. Luna hesitated but complied, curious about what the sophisticated Lin Xu had to say to her.

“I understand you work two jobs and are involved in media and advocacy work. That’s quite impressive,” Lin said, her eyes studying Luna intently.

“It’s something I’m passionate about,” Luna replied, wondering how Lin got hold of her details so quickly. Had she become a center of attraction? Or perhaps someone to be investigated seeing she was getting close to Shaun, Luna questioned. It was so soon though, Luna calculated as she continued.

“I believe in making a positive impact.”

Lin nodded thoughtfully. “I admire that. I’ve been thinking about how I can support your efforts. Perhaps there’s a way we can collaborate.”

Luna’s curiosity was piqued. “What do you have in mind?”

“I have connections and resources that could benefit your media platform and advocacy work. I’d like to offer my support, not as a transaction, but as a partnership,” Lin said, her tone sincere. “Could you come to my office tomorrow afternoon?”

Luna considered the offer carefully. “I appreciate your generosity, Mrs. Xu. I’d be open to discussing how we can work together. But I have to think about it first.”

“Excellent. You have until tomorrow morning to make a decision. You can book an appointment for the afternoon once your mind is made up. My assistant will be waiting for your call,” Mrs. Xu said, a genuine smile spreading across her face. She was glad she had successfully found a way to infiltrate Luna’s life.

“I am hopeful that you will agree. Let’s arrange a meeting to discuss the details, shall we?” Lin added persuasively.

Luna nodded and thanked Lin again as she left. She felt a sense of cautious optimism as she watched Lin’s driver speed off in an Audi Q5. Lin’s offer could open new doors for her work, but it could also ruin her. Although she was determined to explore this opportunity, she had to stay true to her values.

The following day, Gabriel approached Shaun with a question. “Will you make it to the office this afternoon?”

Shaun's smile was unwavering. “I wouldn't miss it for anything.”

“And have faith in yourself, will you?” Shaun patted Gabriel's shoulder. “You're more capable than you think. Our company hasn't even scratched the surface of your knowledge.”

“My project aims to change that,” Gabriel replied.

“Let me guess, you want to introduce 3D designs at Revolution Designs?”

“Yes, but Dad and his board friends are stuck in their ways, preferring sketches,” Gabriel said, and they both chuckled.

“Well, you can't blame them. Older folks are skeptical about technology,” Shaun reasoned. “They fear the risks—money, time, reputation. This applies to business owners and clients alike. But change is necessary, especially now. Times have changed, and more companies are embracing technology.”

Gabriel had been focused on trends, overlooking their established client base. “I was thinking of attracting a new, younger clientele with 3D tech.”

“And what about our old clients?" Shaun asked. "They're the majority. Older wealthy individuals often control the younger generation, especially in generationally wealthy families. Take Stella, for example. She can't make a move without her parents' and grandfather's approval.”

Shaun sighed, realizing he had used his ex-fiancée as an example. But it was true. Stella's guardians dictated her technology usage, clothes, relationships, career, and even her home. They funded her lifestyle, and non-compliance meant being cut off.

“That's thought-provoking,” Gabriel admitted. “What do you suggest I do?”

“Balance is crucial. Revolution Designs thrives on the prestige of old money. Our majority clients in China value premium, royal, and prestigious designs. These designs reflect their wealth, status and success. So, how will you blend their love for classic royalty with 3D technology?”

Shaun paused, studying his brother. Despite being the least favored among the Xu sons, Gabriel was the most capable, educated, and internationally acclaimed. If Shaun hadn't asked him to return, Gabriel would have continued rising in a top 3D technology firm in London.

“I know you can figure it out. Once you do, your project will be indisputable,” Shaun added. "I'll see you this afternoon. I hope you'll have an answer by then."

“Of course. See you this afternoon,” Gabriel smirked. Shaun smiled, confident his brother had already devised a solution. He was that good.

“See you soon,” Shaun said as Gabriel left.