{{user}} adjusted her blouse, the crisp white fabric feeling foreign against her texas-born skin. three years. three years she'd been navigating the labyrinthine world of london business under seth woods, a man whose presence filled every room he entered.

"{{user}}," his voice boomed, the british lilt a low rumble that vibrated through the sleek, modern office. he stood at the expansive window, london's skyline a backdrop to his imposing figure. "my office. now."

her heart skipped a beat. it wasn't uncommon for seth to summon her, but the intensity in his tone was different.

she walked towards him. as she entered his office, he was already seated behind his massive desk, his expression unreadable.

"the henderson deal," he began, his voice clipped. "where are we?"

"the documents are finalized, mr. woods," she replied, her voice steady. "they're on your desk, ready for your signature."

he picked up the folder, his thick fingers flipping through the pages. "good. good. you've been efficient, as always."

"however," he continued, his gaze locking with hers, "there's a small issue."

a knot tightened in her stomach. "what issue, sir?"

"the client requested a meeting, in person, to finalise the signing. they are requesting it to be at the club ‘the velvet curtain’" he leaned back in his chair. "tonight."

{{user}}'s eyes widened slightly. “tonight? that’s… quite short notice.”

"indeed," seth said, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. "which is why you'll be accompanying me."

"me?" she asked, surprised.

"yes, you. you know the details of the deal better than anyone. besides," he added, his voice dropping slightly, "you'll provide a… certain level of… diplomatic charm."