Winds Carry Lost Promises by Asa Holt Vale 20 Summary
In Chapter 20 of “Winds Carry Lost Promises,” Marina experiences a surge of optimism as she engages in a pivotal conversation with Daron Zamora regarding the future of the Ross Group. Her forced smile transforms into a genuine expression of warmth, but Daron’s casual remark about acquiring shares prompts her to assert her independence. She firmly communicates that the direction of the company will be in Daron’s hands once she transfers the shares, indicating her emotional detachment from the firm. This clarity marks a significant shift in her mindset, as she has severed ties with the past and is focused solely on ensuring the financial stability of the Wonder Group.
As the discussion unfolds, Marina requests Daron to maintain funding for a project that Lavern had previously shut down, emphasizing her commitment to rectify the job loss of her friend Yesenia. Daron responds positively, showing curiosity about how he should position himself in the investment. Marina’s choice to prioritize the financial health of the Wonder Group over her emotional ties to the Ross Group reflects her determination and resilience. Daron’s agreement to her terms leads to a negotiation over the sale price, showcasing a blend of business acumen and personal stakes in their conversation.
Meanwhile, the scene shifts to Alyssa’s villa, where Marina’s mood contrasts sharply with her earlier interaction with Daron. However, Lavern’s unexpected arrival disrupts her newfound peace. Their exchange quickly escalates into tension as Lavern confronts Marina about the villa renovations, revealing his frustration over her decisions regarding their future home. Marina stands her ground, asserting her autonomy over her property and challenging Lavern’s expectations. Their dialogue reveals underlying issues in their relationship, particularly Lavern’s attempts to control the narrative and Marina’s growing independence.
As the confrontation intensifies, Marina’s dismissive attitude towards Lavern’s concerns highlights her emotional detachment from their relationship. She casually suggests that they could end things if he finds the situation exhausting, signaling a shift in her willingness to tolerate his behavior. Lavern’s panic at her words indicates the seriousness of her sentiment, and the tension reaches a climax as he receives a work call, further illustrating the strain in their connection. The chapter concludes with an air of unresolved conflict, leaving both characters at a crossroads in their relationship, with Marina asserting her independence and Lavern grappling with his priorities.
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**Winds Carry Lost Promises by Asa Holt Vale**
**Chapter 20**
Marina felt a flicker of optimism ignite within her, and her previously forced smile transformed into one that was truly heartfelt, illuminating her features with a warmth she had almost forgotten.
Just as she was about to voice her thoughts, Daron interrupted, casually flipping through the documents laid out before him. “If I decide to acquire shares from the Ross Group and you’re still eager to shape its future, then we might as well skip this entire discussion,” he remarked, his tone light yet pointed.
With a decisive snap, he closed the folder and tossed it aside as if it were inconsequential, his intense gaze locking onto hers with unwavering scrutiny.
Marina met his gaze head-on, her resolve unyielding. “You’re reading far too much into this, Mr. Zamora. If I’m transferring the shares to you, then the direction of the Ross Group is entirely in your hands, not mine,” she stated firmly, each word infused with conviction.
By this point, any sentimental attachment she had to the company had been completely severed. Those proposals she had submitted were relics of a past effort, remnants of a time when she believed in the potential of Ross Group. She had included them merely to showcase the company’s strengths and solid foundation to Daron.
Whatever path he chose to take it down or any potential conflicts with Lavern that might arise were no longer her concern.
Daron’s expression softened slightly, the sharpness in his gaze giving way to a more contemplative demeanor. “All right then, lay out your terms,” he urged, his voice now carrying a hint of curiosity.
Marina pressed her lips together thoughtfully. “Ross Group had previously invested in a project, but Lavern unilaterally pulled the funding and shut it down for reasons unknown. I would appreciate it if you could keep the investment flowing into that project, Mr. Zamora,” she replied, her voice steady.
After all, Yesenia had lost her job standing up for her, and Marina had promised to rectify the situation. She was determined to ensure that Wonder Group could weather this storm.
Daron nodded slightly, acknowledging her request. “That’s a reasonable ask. Just out of curiosity, would you prefer I invest as a stakeholder in Ross Group, or would you rather I represent Zamora Group?”
The question caught her off guard. He tossed it out so casually, as if it were merely an afterthought, but Marina immediately sensed the implications.
Choosing the Ross Group angle would send a clear signal that she was still emotionally tethered to the company, still trying to meddle in its affairs.
After a moment of contemplation, she parted her lips, her voice measured and deliberate. “Choose whatever option suits you best, Mr. Zamora, the one that maximizes your advantage.”
What mattered most to her was that Wonder Group received the necessary funds to navigate this challenging period. The specifics of Daron’s involvement were secondary.
Daron, reclining on the sofa, appeared pleased with her response. He chuckled softly and reached for the documents once again. “The ball’s in your court, Ms. Finley. Name your price.”
“Five billion dollars.” She had structured the deal to include a reasonable discount, hoping to make it more appealing.
Daron raised an eyebrow at her figure, maintaining a neutral tone. “So you’re planning to retreat to Vrufield, kick back, and let your sister finance your endeavors? Not a bad deal.”
Marina was momentarily taken aback, speechless in the face of his comment.
Daron continued, “Let’s make it seven billion dollars, taxes included. This way, Elnora won’t accuse me of lowballing you and tarnishing my reputation.”
She nodded, a hint of gratitude surfacing in her expression. “Thank you, Mr. Zamora.”
His face remained impassive, revealing nothing of his thoughts. “My team will draft the contract and have it sent to you through the lawyers for your signature,” he stated matter-of-factly.
Marina nodded in agreement. “Sounds good.”
—
Back at Alyssa’s charming little villa, her mood had significantly improved.
Lavern strolled into the courtyard, only to find her humming a cheerful tune as she busied herself with sprucing up the surroundings, clearly in high spirits.
He approached her from behind, wrapping his arms around her waist in a familiar gesture of affection.
Marina stiffened at his touch, her forehead creasing with tension. “What are you doing here?” she asked, her voice sharp as she pulled away from his embrace.
Lavern’s expression darkened, a flicker of frustration crossing his features as he lowered his voice, clearly trying to keep the peace for Alyssa’s sake. “Can’t I come over?”
Marina caught the uncertainty in his eyes and let out a cold, humorless laugh.
Lavern’s expression hardened as he moved straight to the point, his impatience evident. “You renovated the villa without even telling me? Our wedding is just around the corner—where are the relatives going to stay when they arrive?”
Earlier that day, he had stopped by the villa, only to learn from the workers that the owner had ordered a complete renovation.
Marina let out a quiet sigh of relief, thankful that he hadn’t discovered she had sold the place. “They can stay at a hotel. There are plenty of them around; Sicester has a ton,” she replied nonchalantly, as if it were a trivial matter.
Lavern stood there, silent, his gaze fixed on her, brows furrowed in frustration.
She could see the storm brewing within him, but she wasn’t in the mood to soothe his anger or back down. “The villa is in my name; it’s my personal property. What I choose to do with it is none of your concern. You’re overstepping your bounds.”
Lavern’s demeanor turned icy, his voice low and controlled. “We’re about to get married. Don’t I deserve at least a heads-up if you’re renovating our future home?”
Marina shot back, “What kind of respectable family uses the bride’s personal property as their marital home?”
He fixed her with a steady gaze, unyielding.
“Marina, take a good look at yourself right now. You’re coming off as incredibly mercenary. If this bothered you, you could have just said so earlier. I can buy us a new villa for our marriage; it’s not like I can’t afford it. But pulling this renovation out of nowhere at the last minute? It feels like you’re intentionally trying to make me look bad.”
A faint smile tugged at the corners of Marina’s mouth as she regarded him. “Lavern, you haven’t been back there in ages, have you? That’s why you didn’t notice the work started quite some time ago. You can’t really pin that on me, can you?”
A flash of discomfort crossed Lavern’s face. “Marina, work has been incredibly hectic lately, so…”
She interrupted him, “No need to explain. It doesn’t matter.”
Lavern caught the indifference in her eyes and paused, momentarily taken aback before releasing a soft sigh.
“Marina, I know you’re still upset with me over Shawna. I’ve already fired her; she’ll never show her face around you again. Can we just let go of the anger? This is exhausting for both of us.”
Marina remained silent for a few moments before responding, “If it’s wearing you out this much, we can just end things. Like I said, you’re not irreplaceable to me.”
She said it lightly, almost as if it were a casual remark, but Lavern could feel the tension in the air, his nerves tightening instantly. He sensed that this wasn’t merely her venting; it was something real and serious.
A wave of panic washed over him. He longed to pull her into his arms, to reassure her, but just then, his phone began to ring.
Lavern’s face darkened further as he fished out his phone, swiping to reject the call. He was about to slip it back into his pocket when it rang again.
Marina watched him with cool, piercing eyes.
Frustration flickered in Lavern’s gaze. “It might be an urgent work call. I’ll handle it quickly,” he said, his tone apologetic.
She had heard too many excuses from him lately, and this one barely registered, evoking no emotional response within her.
Marina’s striking eyes turned frosty as she shot him a quick glance before looking away, her focus shifting to the trash scattered around the yard. She began picking it up, heading back inside.
Lavern stepped aside to take the call, his face tense, his eyes darting in her direction every so often.
Once he saw that she wasn’t paying attention, he lowered his voice. “Is it nothing major? Don’t panic; I’ll be right there.”
Conclusion
In this chapter, Marina stands at a crossroads, her emotional journey culminating in a newfound sense of independence and resolve. The negotiations with Daron serve as a catalyst for her transformation, allowing her to shed the remnants of her past attachments to the Ross Group. As she asserts her demands with unwavering confidence, it becomes clear that she is no longer the woman willing to compromise for the sake of others. Instead, she prioritizes the wellbeing of Wonder Group, channeling her determination into ensuring its success, even if it means relinquishing her ties to the company she once held dear. This pivotal moment marks her shift from a place of uncertainty to one of empowerment, as she embraces the power she holds in shaping her future.
Meanwhile, her confrontation with Lavern starkly contrasts this newfound strength. His attempts to reestablish control over their relationship are met with her indifference, revealing the emotional chasm that has formed between them. Marina’s biting remarks and refusal to appease his frustrations highlight her commitment to self-preservation, as she recognizes that their union may not be as secure as she once believed. The tension between them escalates, foreshadowing a potential fracture in their relationship. As Lavern grapples with the reality of her detachment, Marina’s resolve only solidifies, suggesting that she is ready to forge her path, regardless of the consequences. In the winds of change, lost promises linger, but for Marina, the promise of a new beginning shines brighter than ever.
What to Expect in Next Chapter?
**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**
As the tension between Marina and Lavern escalates, readers can expect a deeper dive into the complexities of their relationship. With the wedding looming, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Marina’s determination to assert her independence lead to a final rift between them, or will Lavern find a way to bridge the growing divide? The emotional undercurrents are palpable, and one can’t help but wonder if this confrontation will serve as a turning point for both characters.
Meanwhile, Daron’s involvement with the Ross Group hints at a larger game at play. With Marina’s future now intertwined with his decisions, the dynamics of power and trust will be tested. As she navigates the treacherous waters of corporate politics, will she be able to maintain her resolve, or will Daron’s charm and business acumen sway her in unexpected ways? With the promise of new alliances and potential betrayals, the next chapter is poised to unravel secrets that could change everything for Marina and the Ross Group. Prepare for twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat as the winds of change blow fiercely through their lives.
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
