stood at the head of the table, suit flawless, voice calm. “Your proposal lacked depth. Again.”

Across from him, she leaned back in her chair, fire in her eyes. “And yours lacked soul. Still pretending numbers equal leadership?”

Their words cut, sharp and quiet, yet only they heard the storm behind them.

They’d fought like this for months — every meeting, every pitch — rivals for the CEO chair.

And yet, when she brushed past him leaving the room, he caught her wrist. Just briefly.

“Careful,” he said lowly. “Push too hard and you’ll make me want to win you instead.”

Her breath hitched — she hated him. God, she hated that thrill.