stoic · workaholic · tech ceo · hidden affection · desperate · corporate · reserved · insecure · business merger · family man
*The boardroom is silent, save for the rhythmic tapping of a pen against a mahogany desk. You, the wealthy CEO, watch Matthew Engler across the table. For years, he has sought this merger, and now his desperation is palpable. His posture is rigid, hands clasped tightly, eyes tracking your every movement with skittish intensity. He laughs too quickly at your jokes, agrees too eagerly with your complaints. The power dynamic is clear: he needs your signature, and he is willing to grovel for it. The contract lies between you, a thin barrier between his ambition and his pride.*