JOSEPH

When the door locks behind her, I sigh. I'm not even going to lie, the woman is gorgeous. Drop dead gorgeous. It is just her arrogance that irks the hell out of me.

Curious, I pick up my system and type in her name; Naomi. Silly, I know, but that's the only name she gave me. No surname accompanied. For a nane as common as that, this will be one hell of a search.

After series of searches and search several modifications, not taking out that a lot of trips to the kitchen, my room and the rest room, a picture of her finally pops up. I click on it and it leads to a newspaper landing page.

BREAKING BARRIERS: THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF NAOMI ONAIFO IN CORPORATE LEADERSHIP.

In the competitive world of business, few stories resonate as powerfully as that of a determined leader, especially one who defies stereotypes and breaks barriers. Meet Naomi Ivie Onaifo, a remarkable figure in the realm of corporate leadership, whose journey embodies resilience, ingenuity, and unparalleled success.

As the daughter of a renowned entrepreneur, Naomi's ascent to the top echelons of her father's company, BETA Holdings, seemed almost predestined. However, her path to success was anything but conventional. With a keen interest in food production from a young age, she immersed herself in every aspect of the business, mastering the intricacies of manufacturing, supply chain management, and quality control.

Today, Naomi stands as a formidable force in the corporate world, holding dual roles as both a top executive and the head of food production at BETA Foods. Her leadership style is characterized by a rare blend of decisiveness, innovation, and a genuine passion for her craft. Under her stewardship, the company has experienced unprecedented growth, expanding its operations both domestically and internationally.

But Naomi's  journey to success was not without its challenges. As a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry, she faced skepticism and prejudice at every turn. Undeterred, she let her unwavering determination and expertise speak for themselves, gradually earning the respect and admiration of her peers and colleagues.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Naomi is also a philanthropist and advocate for women's empowerment. Through various initiatives and mentorship programs, she actively works to support and uplift women in business, paving the way for future generations of female leaders.

In an exclusive interview, she reflected on her journey, stating, "I've always believed that success is not defined by gender or background, but by one's ability to persevere in the face of adversity. As leaders, it is our responsibility to create opportunities for others and foster an environment where everyone can thrive."

As Naomi continues to chart new territories and inspire others with her remarkable story, she serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. In a world where obstacles abound, she stands as a beacon of hope and possibility, proving that with courage and resilience, anything is attainable.

Wow. Just wow. This explains her arrogance. BETA Holdings? Onaifo? The 1% of the 1%? I knew her face seemed familiar but I just couldn't place my hands on the exact thing. Today's another day off for me, at the club. It is already 12pm and time for me to prepare and head on to the workshop. To a great deal, I trust the boys that work for me and do not believe in micromanaging people. For that reason, I sometimes allow them manage the activities of the space and show up later in the day. After having a bath, I am all dressed and ready to go when I spot a shiny item beneath the pillow. I retrieve the watch and stare at it. It will definitely be hers. Problem is, it will take me another sef of hours before I get across to her.

Perhaps I could send a dispatch rider to deliver it to her. Then again, these guys are not to be trusted. Besides, the watch looks pretty expensive. I sigh and just drop it back to where I picked it. On a second thought, I think I'll just get it across to her. It will be a wonder to see the shock on her face. Chuckling, I grab my keys and step out. The beast roars to life and I ride to my destination, workshop forgotten for the moment.

It was quite a journey to her office building. Clad in a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt, I park my bike in the parking lot and head into the building. So many security scans before getting to reception. I flash a smile at the receptionist who blushes and gives me a flirty smile.

"Good afternoon. Here to see your boss; Naomi." Her smile slowly fades into a scowl. Was she expecting me to be here for her when I don't even know her in the first place.

"Good afternoon, sir." She clears her throat and adjusts herself in her seat.

"Here's the ID for visitors. Please sign here." She slides a book to me and taps on it.

"Okay." After doing as instructed, she tells me the floor and gives directions on how to get to her space.

"Thank you." Flashing her a grateful smile, I sigh and head for the elevator. A few seconds later, I arrive at the floor and use the directions from earlier.

"Good afternoon. Please I am here for Naomi." The secretary stares at me like I had two heads.

"Do you have an appointment?" She asks rudely.

"No, just tell her that..." She cuts me off mid sentence.

"She can't see you, then." What the hell is wrong with this one?

"It's important. If she's around, I'll advise you show me into her office." She lets out a low hiss.

"No." She responds.

"If you say so, then. I guess I'll just put a call across to your boss, informing her of your terrible attitude." Fishing my phone out of my pocket, I begin dialing Naomi. I honestly do not have time for this bullshit. I would have just sent a dispatch guy and not care if it got stolen or not.

"Hello." She picks on the 7th ring.

"Sorry, Sir." I smirk and disconnect the call. She quickly types something on her computer before standing up to show me the way. She knocks on the door and opens it. Standing just by the window, arms folded and backing us is the person I am here for. I take my time to drink in the view that meets me.

"What is it, Grace?" She asks, still backing us.

"You have a guest, ma." Grace visibly coils when answering

"I don't remember making an appointment for this time."

"He said it was urgent, ma." She answers.

"He?" She turns around and her eyes meet mine.

"You can leave us." She waves off dismissively.

"What brings you here?" She asks.

"Good afternoon to you too, Naomi." She rolls her eyes and I take my seat even before she gestures me to. I observed how annoyed that made her feel. Good.

She is wearing a pretty lilac gown that has some purple specks on it. She looks quite different from this morning or even the first time we had an encounter. Now she screams boss lady. No wonder that rudeass is scared of her. Well, glare and scowl all she wants, I remain unflinched. Still glaring, she pulls out the chair and takes a seat.

"You left your wristwatch." I take the item out of my pocket and place it on the table.

"Maybe you stole it from me." She shrugs, implying I am a thief.

"A thief will not bring it yo you. Besides, why will I steal from you?"

"The obvious. You need the money to fix your life."

"I am not the cause of your problems, Naomi. You are just lucky you are beautiful, Aunty fine geh." She hisses, but I see a blush creeping in.

"How did you know about that weird ass name?" Is this her softening up and trying to have a conversation? Interesting.

"The boys." Bazon introduced her by that when he called for my assistance.

"Ohhh."

"Have dinner with me." I abruptly say.

"Do you even have money to take me out?" She asks in a condescending tone.

"You know what? Fuck it." I take long strides to where she is sat and kiss her. In place of her stunned reaction from earlier, she pushes me off her and gives me a very painful slap. All of these I did not expect.

"The only reason I am not calling security on you right now is simply because I want to avoid drama. Now, Mister, leave my office and my building. The next time I see you an inch close to me, I will file a restraining order against you, you lowlife Godforsaken bastard." Every single ounce of pride that you think you have, I will rip it off you, Naomi. Every single one, just watch and see.

AN: I know, I know. There was a caught. I am waltzing in like I didn't ghost for a year. Enjoy this chapter, guys.