Ceo's Secret Wife
deal
The sun was scorching over the streets of Luanda. Nayola wiped the sweat from her forehead, clutching her resume folder tightly. She had just finished an interview for a junior administrative role and was praying for a miracle.
Suddenly, a thud and a gasp caught her attention. An elderly man in a fine linen suit had collapsed near his parked car.
nayola(fl)
Sir! Sir, can you hear me?"
ml grandpa
(Wheezing) "My... my chest... the heat..."
nayola(fl)
Don't try to speak. Just breathe. I’ve got you."
She quickly loosened his collar, fanned him with her folder, and gave him small sips of her water. She stayed by his side, ignoring her bus, until his breathing steadied.
ml grandpa
You... you didn't leave. Most people just walk by."
nayola(fl)
"I couldn't just leave you here. Do you have someone I can call?"
ml grandpa
My grandson. He thinks he’s too busy running the world, but he’ll come for me."
Across the city, in a glass skyscraper, Tiago was in the middle of a high-stakes merger.
tiago(ml)
"If we don't close the Kwanza North project by Friday, we lose the—"
His phone buzzed. A private line. He answered it immediately.
tiago(ml)
Grandpa? I'm in a meeting
ml grandpa
I’m at the clinic on Marginal. A girl saved my life, Tiago. Get here. Now
tiago(ml)
What? Are you okay? I’m coming."
Tiago arrived like a whirlwind, his expensive shoes clicking sharply against the clinic floor. He saw his grandfather sitting on a bed, looking much better, talking to a girl in a simple, worn-out dress
tiago(ml)
Grandpa! What happened?"
ml grandpa
The heat got me. This is Nayola. She stayed with me for an hour in the sun
Tiago turned to Nayola. He looked at her resume folder and then at her cheap shoes. His eyes were cold and suspicious.
tiago(ml)
I see. Thank you for your 'help.' How much do I owe you for your time?"
nayola(fl)
Excuse me? I didn't do it for money."
tiago(ml)
Everyone does it for something. Name your price and leave
ml grandpa
Tiago! Don't be a fool! Look at her eyes. She’s honest. She’s pure. She’s exactly the kind of woman you need to settle down with. In fact... I’ve decided. You two should marry."
nayola(fl)
What?! Sir, you’re clearly still lightheaded. I don't even know this man."
tiago(ml)
(Laughing coldly) "Marry her? A girl from the street who probably staged the whole thing?"
nayola(fl)
I would rather marry a cactus than a man as arrogant as you. Goodbye
She turned and marched out, her heart thumping with rage.
Nayola was waiting at the bus stop when her phone rang. It was her brother.
..
Nayola... it’s Papa. The farm... the loan sharks came. They said if we don't pay 10 Lakh by the end of the month, they’ll take the land and put Papa in jail. He’s devastated. He can't stop shaking."
nayola(fl)
10 Lakh? Where am I going to get that kind of money? I haven't even started my job yet!
Nayola looked back at the clinic. Her pride was screaming, but her father’s face was in her mind. She walked back inside.
Tiago was just about to lead his grandfather to the car when Nayola reappeared.
nayola(fl)
I’ll do it. I’ll marry you."
ml grandpa
I knew it! A match made in heaven!"
tiago(ml)
(Eyes flashing with anger) "I knew it. You’re just a gold digger after all. How much? What’s your price for a year of your life?"
nayola(fl)
10 Lakh. Upfront. The moment the papers are signed."
tiago(ml)
10 Lakh? Cheap. For a CEO's wife, you’re asking for peanuts. Fine. I’ll buy you. But don't expect me to touch you or even look at you."
office
The morning after the quiet, cold signing of the marriage certificate, the atmosphere in the penthouse was thick with a tension that even the expensive incense couldn't mask. Tiago sat at the head of the mahogany table, his eyes fixed on his tablet, while Nayola stared at her plate, the weight of the 10 Lakh contract still heavy on her heart.
ml grandpa
Tiago, stop looking at those numbers! It’s your wife’s first day at her new job. You aren't letting her take a taxi, are you?"
tiago(ml)
(Without looking up) "She has a bus pass, Grandpa. She’s an adult.
ml grandpa
Nonsense! A Luvualu woman does not ride the bus. You will drop her off yourself. Show some pride in your bride!"
Tiago sighed, closing his tablet with a sharp snap. He caught Nayola’s gaze—she looked small in her simple, floral-print dress, her hair pulled back in a neat but modest style.
tiago(ml)
Fine. Let’s go, Nayola. I have a board meeting in twenty minutes
They walked down to the basement garage where Tiago’s custom-built armored SUV stood like a black beast under the LED lights. Mateus, Tiago’s driver and most trusted personal assistant, held the door open with a professional nod.
Nayola stepped inside, her eyes widening. The interior was lined with cream leather, smelling of expensive sandalwood and new technology. There were screens built into the headrests and a mini-fridge in the center console.
nayola(fl)
Wow... this car... it’s incredible. It must have cost at least 5 Lakh, right?
Mateus let out a sudden, stifled laugh from the driver’s seat. Tiago’s lips curved into a dark, mocking smirk.
..
Senhora... with all due respect, just one of these specialized run-flat tires costs 10 Lakh. The car itself? You could buy twenty farms with it."
Nayola felt the blood rush to her cheeks. She looked down at her hands, feeling the massive gap between her world and theirs. 10 Lakh—the price of her father’s life—was just a tire to this man.
tiago(ml)
Don't look so shocked. You’re the one who set your own price, remember? Now, where is this 'prestigious' office of yours?"
nayola(fl)
It’s... it’s near the port. Take a left at the next light, then a sharp right past the old market."
tiago(ml)
The port? That’s a warehouse district."
nayola(fl)
It’s a logistics firm. I’m the new receptionist."
As they pulled up to a grey, slightly weathered building, Tiago stared at the sign: Luvualu & Sons Logistics. He and Mateus shared a silent, knowing look. This was a subsidiary of Tiago’s own empire—a branch so small he rarely visited it.
tiago(ml)
(Gently) "Good luck on your first day, Senhora."
tiago(ml)
Move, Nayola. You’re making me late."
Nayola stepped into the lobby, clutching her bag. The air conditioning was weak, and the wallpaper was peeling at the corners. Behind the main desk stood a man with a sharp nose and a cheap suit—Mr. Silva, the office manager
..
You must be the new girl. Nayola, right?"
He looked her up and down, his eyes lingering on her modest dress and sensible shoes. A sneer touched his lips.
..
Did you get lost on your way to the market? This is a corporate office, not a village square. We have a dress code here, girl. You look like you just stepped off a tractor."
A few other employees nearby chuckled, whispering to each other. Nayola felt a lump in her throat but kept her head high.
nayola(fl)
I was told the dress code was business casual, sir. I’m here to work, not to model."
..
Watch your tone! You're lucky we were desperate enough to hire a provincial girl. Now, go fetch the mail and—"
The heavy glass doors of the office swung open. The atmosphere changed instantly. The laughter died, and Mr. Silva practically tripped over his own feet to stand straight.
A woman stepped in, the clicking of her red stilettos sounding like a countdown. She was wearing a tailored white power suit, her hair styled in perfect, sleek braids. This was Soraia, the Director of Marketing and Tiago’s long-time "close friend."
..
Director Soraia! We weren't expecting a visit today!
soraia
(Ignoring him, her eyes landing on Nayola) "Who is this? A delivery girl?"
..
The new receptionist, Madam. A bit... unpolished, as you can see. She’s from the interior."
Soraia walked in a circle around Nayola, the scent of her expensive French perfume filling the air. She stopped in front of Nayola, looking disgusted.
soraia
Unpolished is an understatement. She’s a disgrace to the front desk. And look at this—"
Soraia pointed to a small smudge of dust on her own red heel, likely from the sidewalk.
soraia
You. Since you’re so used to being on the ground, get down and wipe this off. My shoes cost more than your father’s annual salary. Move!"
nayola(fl)
I am a receptionist, not a shoe shiner."
soraia
You are whatever I tell you to be! Everyone knows I’m going to be the next Mrs. Luvualu. Tiago and I have been 'together' for years. If I want you fired, you’re gone before lunch."
..
Do as she says, girl! Show some respect to our future Madam!
Nayola stood her ground, her fists clenched. She thought of her father. She thought of the 10 Lakh. She was about to reach for a tissue when a shadow fell across the doorway.
tiago(ml)
Is this how my logistics branch operates? By bullying the staff?"
The room went ice-cold. Tiago stood there, arms crossed, his presence commanding the entire floor. Mateus stood behind him, looking unimpressed by the scene.
soraia
(Her voice instantly changing to a sweet, melodic tone) "Tiago! Darling! I was just teaching the new girl about the standards of our company. She’s... a bit stubborn."
..
Yes, CEO! She was being very disrespectful to Director Soraia!"
Tiago walked slowly toward the group. He didn't look at Nayola directly, but his eyes were burning with a hidden fury. He looked at Soraia’s shoe, then at Mr. Silva’s mocking face.
tiago(ml)
Standards? My standards involve productivity and professional conduct. Not using my employees as servants.
soraia
Tiago, look at her clothes! She’s bringing down the image of the—
tiago(ml)
I don't care if she wears silk or burlap. A person’s worth isn't measured by their wardrobe, Silva. And you—"
tiago(ml)
He turned his gaze to the manager, who began to sweat
tiago(ml)
"If I hear one more word of mockery about a person’s background or their home, you won't just be fired. I will personally see to it that you never work in Luanda again. Is that clear?
..
Y-yes, CEO! Crystal clear
tiago(ml)
And Soraia... stay in your lane. Marketing is your department. This office is mine. Everyone deserves respect, regardless of where they come from
He finally let his eyes flick to Nayola for a split second. There was no warmth there, only a stern warning to stay quiet
tiago(ml)
Get to work. All of you. This is the last warning.
As Tiago turned to leave, Soraia fumed, her face turning a bright, angry red. She glared at Nayola, her eyes promising a war
soraia
(Whispering to Nayola) "I don't know why he defended you, but don't get comfortable. He hates 'charity cases.' I’ll find out who you really are."
Nayola didn't say a word. She sat down at her desk, her heart racing. Tiago hadn't claimed her as his wife, but for a moment, he had protected her.
nayola(fl)
(To herself) "First day... and I’ve already made an enemy of the woman who thinks she owns my husband
touch
nayola(fl)
Tiago... I saw the sign on the building. It says 'Luvualu.' You... you are the CEO of this entire logistics branch too?
tiago(ml)
(Leaning back in the leather seat, his eyes cold but amused) "Don't be naive, Nayola. This branch is a speck of dust. We own more than fifty companies across Angola and Portugal. Construction, diamonds, telecommunications... this office is just where we manage the local port paperwork."
nayola(fl)
(Gasping, her hand flying to her chest) "Fifty? I thought... I thought you were just a rich businessman. Fifty companies..."
tiago(ml)
And that is exactly why no one can know about our arrangement. If the board finds out I married a commoner because of a grandfather’s whim and a 10 Lakh debt, the stock prices would plummet. You stay invisible. Understood?"
nayola(fl)
(Nodding quickly) "Yes... you’re right. It’s better this way. If people knew, it would affect my work. I want to earn my place here, not be seen as a 'charity case' wife."
Tiago paused. He expected her to brag or ask for a higher allowance now that she knew the true scale of his wealth. Instead, she seemed relieved to stay in the shadows. He looked at her—really looked at her—and reached out, his large hand moving to cover hers on the console.
But before his fingers could brush her skin, Nayola pulled back, her face flushing a deep crimson. She was too shy to handle the sudden heat in his eyes.
nayola(fl)
"I... I have to go. The shift starts in five minutes!"
nayola(fl)
She scrambled out of the car, leaving Tiago staring at his empty palm, a strange, frustrated energy radiating from him
nayola(fl)
Five days passed in a blur of filing papers and enduring the silent glares of the staff. But something was changing. Despite Tiago’s warnings, he found himself walking through the lobby more often than necessary. He would stop to ask for a file, his eyes lingering on Nayola just a second too long.
In the manager’s office, Mr. Silva was whispering to Soraia, his eyes darting toward the reception desk.
..
Director Soraia, do you see it? The CEO has been down here three times today. He never comes to this branch. He’s looking at her. That village girl is casting a spell on him."
soraia
(Her nails digging into her designer handbag) "He’s probably just making sure she isn't stealing the pens, Silva. But... you’re right. The way he looked at her just now... it wasn't disgust. It was curiosity."
..
You have to do something. If she stays, she’ll ruin everything. We need to remind him who truly belongs by his side."
Later that afternoon, Nayola was sent up to the executive floor to deliver a set of urgent shipping manifests. As she approached Tiago’s private cabin, the door was slightly ajar. She paused, about to knock, when she heard a voice dripping with honey and desperation.
soraia
Tiago, please... why are you being so cold? Look at me. Remember what we had?"
Nayola peered through the gap. Soraia had practically thrown herself across Tiago’s desk, her hand reaching for his tie, her eyes brimming with calculated tears.
soraia
"I still love you. I know you’re just stressed with the merger. Let’s go to Paris this weekend. Just like before."
tiago(ml)
(Pushing her hand away firmly) "Soraia, stop. That ended months ago. It was a business arrangement between our fathers that never went anywhere. There is no 'us.'"
Nayola backed away, her heart sinking. She felt a sudden, sharp pang of guilt. She’s beautiful, she’s successful, and she loves him, Nayola thought. Am I the reason they aren't together? Did I separate a couple because of my 10 Lakh debt?
She turned to flee, but ran straight into Mr. Silva.
..
Ah, eavesdropping? See that, girl? That’s a real woman. A Director. A lady of status. A man like Tiago Luvualu would never come down to your level for a girl like you. You’re just a temporary distraction—if he even notices you at all
nayola(fl)
Nayola bit her lip, the guilt and the insult mixing into a bitter cocktail. She dropped the files on a nearby chair and ran back to the elevators, her eyes stinging.
Inside the cabin, Tiago stood up, his face like stone as he watched Soraia straighten her skirt.
soraia
You're lying, Tiago. There isn't anyone else. You're just playing hard to get."
tiago(ml)
I’m not playing, Soraia. I told you it's over because I’m married.
The room went dead silent. Soraia’s mouth dropped open, her eyes wide with shock.
soraia
Married? When? To whom? Some European heiress? Why wasn't it in the papers?"
tiago(ml)
(Walking to the window, looking down at the street where he knew Nayola would be walking to the bus stop) "Who she is... that is none of your business. You are an employee and a family friend. Nothing more. Now, leave."
soraia
Soraia stomped out, her mind racing. Married? In secret? She didn't believe it for a second. She was convinced it was a lie to get rid of her—or worse, that the "wife" was someone even more dangerous to her position.
Just as Tiago sat back down, his phone rang. It was his father’s sister, Aunt Maria—the undisputed matriarch of the Luvualu family and a woman who could make a lion tremble with a single look.
..
Tiago! I heard the most ridiculous rumor from your grandfather. He says you’ve finally brought a woman into the house. He says I have a niece-in-law!"
tiago(ml)
(Rubbing his temples) "Grandpa has a big mouth, Auntie."
..
Is it true? Is she a Luvualu woman? I’m coming to the company today. I want to see this girl for myself. If she isn't up to our standards, I’ll personally escort her out of your penthouse."
tiago(ml)
Auntie, she’s... she’s busy working. She’s the new receptionist at the logistics branch."
..
(There was a long silence on the line) "A receptionist? My nephew married a girl who answers phones? Tiago, tell me you’re joking."
tiago(ml)
Come and see for yourself, Auntie. But remember... she doesn't know you’re coming. And no one in the office knows she’s mine. Keep it that way."
..
Oh, I’m coming, Tiago. And may God help that girl if she’s just another gold digger."
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