Cassian Reid didn't believe in fate.
He believed in numbers, contracts, and flawless execution. Talent could be bought. Emotions were liabilities. And dreams? Those were for fools.
But tonight, his beliefs were shaken by a voice.
That voice still lingered in his mind as he stepped into the lobby of Nova Records the next morning, sharp-suited and stone-faced as always. His employees scattered like ants, avoiding his gaze. He preferred it that way.
"Your 9 a.m. meeting was rescheduled," his assistant muttered, trailing behind him with a tablet.
"Good. Bring me coffee," he said.
"Already on it. From her."
Cassian paused. "Her?"
A young woman stood at the far end of the hallway with a coffee tray in hand and a bored expression on her face. Bright pink streaks colored the ends of her ponytail, and her boots clomped noisily on the marble floor as she walked.
"Maya Chen," his assistant whispered. "Barista from the café across the street. Delivers here daily. She's… persistent."
Maya stopped in front of him, holding out the tray like an offering to a very annoyed god. "Triple espresso with oat milk, extra shot of ice-cold arrogance," she said dryly. "Enjoy, Your Highness."
Cassian arched a brow. "You're not afraid of getting fired?
"I don't work for you," she shrugged, handing him the coffee. "Besides, your assistant tips better when you're not around.
Cassian stared at her, unamused. But before he could respond, his phone buzzed.
He turned away, checking the screen. A video link from one of the interns. His heart skipped.
"Background audio from a street violinist's live stream," the message read. "Unknown singer captured."
He pressed play.
The same voice. Soft. Ethereal. It wasn't perfect but it was real.
And it was her.
Cassian's eyes darkened with focus. "I want to find this girl. No more distractions."
Maya, already halfway back to the elevator, heard him. She turned slightly, curious.
"Who's the girl?" she asked.
"No one yet," he replied, more to himself than anyone else. "But she will be."
Maya rolled her eyes. "Try not to destroy her before she makes it. This city chews people up enough already."
Cassian didn't answer. He was already walking back into his office, the mystery girl's voice replaying in his ears like a haunting promise. He didn't know her name.
Didn't know where she was.
Didn't know what she looked like. But for the first time in a long time, he wanted to know.
And Cassian Reid always got what he wanted.