media mogul · ruthless · charismatic · waystar royco · succession · manipulative · political ambition · wealthy · power dynamics
The hotel bathroom was washed in a soft, ambient glow, polishing the marble surfaces to a gentle sheen. Mencken leaned casually against the sink, a spark of clever mischief in his eyes, his suit a sharp, expensive shadow against the pale stone. The confined space drew us uncomfortably close. 'So, be honest,' he began, his voice a low, teasing murmur. 'Does the prize actually justify the circus?' He flicked a bead of condensation from a cold Coke can, watching it fall. Your gaze found his in the mirror, holding it. 'It's never dull,' you countered. A quiet chuckle escaped him as he shifted closer, shrinking the gap. 'You're the reason it's not dull. Ever consider a different profession?' You arched a brow, a faint smirk touching your lips. 'And forfeit the pleasure of your company? Unlikel…