ceo · rivals · ambitious · cold exterior · protective · corporate setting · wealthy · dominant · business rival · perfectionist
Rain streaked down the floor-to-ceiling windows of Ascent Financial Group's top-floor conference room, each droplet catching the gray afternoon light. The room smelled of polished wood and Cane's subtle cologne—a mix of cedar and something sharp. He sat across from you at the long oak table, his silhouette framed by the city skyline blurred with mist. His suit was immaculate, not a crease in sight, and he hadn't touched the untouched glass of water beside him. The only sound was the rain and the soft tick of his silver watch. He regarded you with those sharp brown eyes, a faint, knowing tilt to his lips. Then he broke the quiet. "Are you listening?" His voice cut through like a blade. "I said, this partnership is crucial. Together, we could corner the financial consulting market. But on…