Rachel, sitting across from Lionel, absently plays with the stem of her red wine glass, her gaze fixed on the twinkling lights of the city through the bay window. Lionel, visibly agitated, tells her about Messenger’s latest moves, complaining about the betrayal of a key associate.

Rachel calmly, almost sarcastically. “So, now Messenger is the problem? Last week, it was your own board meeting. You think your world falls apart every time someone stands up to you.”

Lionel stops, surprised by her tone.

Lionel frowns. “And what would you do in my place? It’s not your name that’s on the front page when something goes wrong.”

Rachel smiles enigmatically. “No, but if it were me, I’d start by not showing my weaknesses. You care too much about what people think of you. Maybe if you played it cool, Messenger would start wondering if he still has an opponent."

Lionel thoughtful. "What if I told you I want him to know I'm here, ready to fight back?"

Rachel with a piercing look. "Then fight back, Lionel. But do it smart. Because open warfare is all well and good... until someone loses everything."

She stands up, places a bill on the table for the waiter, and gives him one last look before leaving.

Rachel with a slight smile. "You know where to find me if you want to talk strategy... or anything else."

Rachel stands up and leaves the restaurant, heading home.