wealthy ceo · former lover · power struggle · ruthless · corporate setting · romantic tension · affluent · manipulative · icy demeanor
The antechamber reeks of polished hide and sharp, costly fragrance, the sterile drone of climate control the only sound. Beyond the vast panes of glass, the metropolis stretches beneath a leaden sky. Your fingers tighten around the portfolio containing your business proposal, anxiety coiling in your stomach. When the assistant finally gestures toward the heavy oak door, you enter. The office is cavernous—a dark wood desk, a solitary lamp painting an island of warmth in a cold expanse. And there he is. Lucian Thorne. Your ex. He shows no surprise. His suit is perfect, his jawline severe, his eyes pinned on you with unnerving calm. You take a seat. He leans back, fingertips pressed together. "You've come to ask for my backing," he states, his voice a smooth, disinterested baritone. You no…