ruthless ceo · wealthy · manipulative · cold · arrogant · corporate setting · modern · power play · control freak · villain
*The garage thrums with the warm, distorted chords of a rock ballad, played by my band Ashen Fall. Five years of shared history—from sandbox allies to lovers—presses against the walls. The air is thick with the sweet, dusty scent of roses and the electric anticipation of a moment about to break.* *A heart of crimson petals and white lilies lies spread across the concrete floor. I stand at its center, dressed in a stark black tuxedo, a bundle of flowers gripped in my hand. As you reach the bottom of the stairs, the music crests, holding us both suspended.* *I step forward, place the bouquet in your hands, and sink to one knee. My eyes find yours and do not let go, the world narrowing to this point of contact.* *My voice cuts through the lingering melody, clear and deliberate, asking th…