After a few months, Stacy was finally able to move into a beautiful, modern apartment. She was thrilled to have a place to call her own, and she spent hours decorating and making it feel like home.

Stacy's fashion business was booming, and she was grateful to have Madeline and Charlotte collaborating with her. Madeline's travel experiences and Charlotte's photography skills were a perfect match for Stacy's fashion designs.

Axel, on the other hand, was flourishing in the business world. His parents' fame had given him a head start, and he knew exactly how to use his connections to his advantage. He was charming, confident, and had a natural talent for business.

As a result, Axel's company was taking off. He was getting attention from all over the industry, and people were clamoring to work with him.

One day, Stacy received an email from Axel's assistant, inviting her to collaborate with his company on a new project. Stacy was taken aback - she hadn't spoken to Axel in months, and she wasn't sure if she was ready to work with him again.

Despite her reservations, Stacy couldn't deny the potential benefits of the collaboration. Axel's company was huge, and working with him could bring a lot of exposure to her fashion business.

After some serious consideration, Stacy decided to accept the invitation. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to put her personal feelings aside and focus on the potential benefits for her business.

"Madeline, Charlotte, I have some news," Stacy said, as she walked into the living room where her friends were sitting. "I just got an email from Axel's assistant. He wants to collaborate with me on a new project."

Madeline's eyes widened in surprise. "That's huge," she said. "What did you say?"

Stacy took a deep breath. "I accepted. I know it's going to be tough, but I think it could be really beneficial for my business."

Charlotte nodded in agreement. "I think you're right, Stacy. We can't let our personal feelings get in the way of your business. We have to think about what's best for your company."

Stacy smiled, feeling a sense of determination. "You're right. Let's do this."

As the day of the meeting with Axel approached, Stacy couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. She was excited about the potential collaboration, but she was also nervous about seeing Axel again.

Madeline and Charlotte noticed that Stacy was a bit off and asked her if everything was okay. Stacy confided in them about her mixed feelings, and they offered her their support and encouragement.

On the day of the meeting, Stacy arrived at Axel's office feeling a bit more confident. She was greeted by Axel's assistant, who showed her to the conference room where Axel was waiting.

Axel stood up to greet Stacy, smiling warmly. "Hey, Stacy. It's great to see you again."

Stacy smiled back, trying to play it cool. "Hey, Axel. Thanks for having me."

The two of them sat down, and Axel began to explain his vision for the collaboration. Stacy listened intently, taking notes and asking questions.

As they discussed the details of the project, Stacy couldn't help but be impressed by Axel's professionalism and expertise. She had to admit that she was a bit surprised - she hadn't expected Axel to be so knowledgeable about the fashion industry.

Despite their past differences, Stacy found herself feeling more and more comfortable around Axel. She began to see him in a new light, as a talented and driven entrepreneur rather than just her ex-boyfriend.

As the meeting came to a close, Axel smiled at Stacy. "I'm really looking forward to working with you, Stacy. I think we could create something amazing together."

Stacy smiled back, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation. "I couldn't agree more, Axel. Let's do this."

As they stood up to leave, Axel hesitated for a moment. "Hey, Stacy? Can I talk to you for a minute?"

Stacy nodded, curious. "What's up?"

Axel took a deep breath. "I just wanted to explain what happened between us. I know I hurt you, and I'm really sorry for that."

Stacy's eyes narrowed slightly, but she nodded for him to continue.

Axel took another deep breath. "I was going through a tough time, and I didn't know how to deal with my emotions. I pulled away from you, and I shouldn't have done that."

Stacy looked at him, searching for sincerity in his eyes. She saw it, and her expression softened slightly.

Axel took a step closer to her. "I've been thinking about you a lot lately, Stacy. I realize now that I made a huge mistake by letting you go."

Stacy's heart skipped a beat as Axel's eyes locked onto hers. She felt a flutter in her chest, and she couldn't help but wonder if she still had feelings for him.

Axel smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm really glad we're working together, Stacy. Maybe we can rekindle some of the old magic."

Stacy raised an eyebrow, feeling a spark of attraction. "Maybe," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Axel's smile grew wider, and he took another step closer to her. Stacy's heart was racing now, and she couldn't help but wonder what might happen next.