Chapter 0296


    Karl


    “You’ve been staring at those profiles I gave you for hours, Karl,” Marcus says, his eyes flickering over


    to me from where he sits across my desk. “What’s on your mind?”


    I run a hand through my hair, feeling deted after the hectic morning. “It’s just... None of them feel


    right, Marcus. These women are undoubtedly qualified and capable, but I’m just not interested in any of


    them.”


    Marcus nods. “Well, maybe you just need a different approach,” he suggests. “Why don’t you hold a


    private date with each of them? It might be easier to get an idea of what they’re really like that way.”


    I lean back in my plush leather chair, considering Marcus’ words. While I hate the idea of going on a


    private date with any of these women, the Alpha party is ticking closer and I have yet to find a partner.


    “Alright,” I finally concede with a sigh. “I’ll set up dates with the top three candidates.”


    With that decision made, I instruct Marcus to arrange the private dates with Marissa, Meg, and Shana,


    the three women who seem like the most viable candidates for not only a date, but also a future Luna.


    None of them are Abby, but it’s about as good as I can get. And who knows? Maybe I’ll have a real


    connection with one of them.


    …


    Marissa


    “Karl, it’s a pleasure to finally have some one-on-one time,” Marissa purrs, her voice mingling with the


    sounds of the romantic bistro that I’ve chosen as our date spot.


    I return her smile, although it feels like a hollow gesture. “Likewise. You made an impression on me at


    the luncheon, so I thought it only fitting if we met again.”


    Her fingers twirl the stem of her wine ss as she leans in closer. “I knew we hit it off. I’m known for


    making…sting impressions. Especially on men.”


    Her words make me uneasy, but I choose to ignore it for now. “So, Marissa, what are your interests?”


    She tilts her head slightly, her eyes gleaming with hubris. “I’m quite the socialite. You’ll often find me at


    the most exclusive events and parties. And of course, I love fashion.”


    “Fashion,” I echo, nodding. “I’m intrigued. Tell me more.”


    Marissaunches into an extensive monologue about her favorite designers, mentioning high-end


    brands and exclusive collections. It’s obvious that it’s something that entices her, but something nags at


    the back of my mind.


    “I think it’s great that you’re so passionate about fashion,” I say when she’s finished. “Personally, I enjoy


    —”


    Before I can answer, she cuts in with another monologue, leaving no room for me to respond. It’s off-


    putting, and I’m left reeling, feeling like this is a very one-sided conversation.


    By the time she finishes, I’ve made up my mind. This conversation isn’t going anywhere, and in fact,


    her self-absorbed nature is making me want to dunk my head into the fish tank that’s on the other end


    of the bistro.


    “Marissa,” I say, keeping my tone steady, “I appreciate yourpany tonight, but I just don’t see this


    going anywhere. I’m sorry.”


    She lets out an exasperated sigh, her irritation thinly veiled. “Karl, you don’t know what you’re missing.”


    Without another word, she storms off, leaving me alone with an exorbitantly expensive bill and a bad


    taste in my mouth.


    …


    Meg


    “Karl, darling, you won’t believe how excited I am for this evening,” she exims, leaning in for an air-


    kiss on each cheek.  Dr?мanоvels


    I return her greeting with a warm smile. “I’m looking forward to it as well, Meg. This ce is nice.


    Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Thanks for rmending it.”


    She takes her seat, and her eyes immediately light up as she scans the menu. “Oh, actually, could you


    take a picture of me first? I need to update my I*******m.”


    I’m a bit taken aback, but I agree, if only to be polite. “Sure.”