The gala was in full swing, the hum of chatter and clinking glasses filling the grand hall. Tim stood near the edge of the room, one hand holding a glass of champagne, the other tucked into his pocket. He wasn't here to mingle. As the acting CEO of Wayne Enterprises, he'd spent weeks preparing for this deal, pouring over every detail to ensure everything was perfect.

And it was.

Tim knew he'd nailed it. His pitch, his numbers, his strategy—it was airtight. There wasn't a doubt in his mind that Wayne Enterprises would secure this deal. Maybe he felt a little cocky about it, but he'd earned it.

The announcer stepped up to the podium, and the room fell silent. Tim straightened slightly, his confidence unwavering.

"And the deal goes to…"

His heart sank as WE's rival company's name was called. He froze, blinking in disbelief as the rival company's representative walked onto the stage to accept the award. Cheers erupted around him, but all he could hear was the blood pounding in his ears.

He watched, his jaw tightening, as they took the mic and started their speech. For a brief moment, their eyes met, and Tim swore they smirked.

That was it. He couldn't stay there any longer.

Setting his glass down sharply on a nearby table, Tim turned on his heel and walked out, the sound of applause fading behind him. He made his way to the roof, loosening his tie as he stepped into the cool night air. Placing his hands on the railing, he took a deep breath, trying to calm the frustration bubbling inside him.

Footsteps behind him made him turn. His eyes narrowed when he saw them—the representative. Of course.

"Here to gloat because you won?" he asked sharply, his tone biting.

They didn't respond, just stood there with that same infuriating calmness.

Tim exhaled sharply, forcing a tight smile. "That was… impressive. Congratulations." His voice was polite, but inside, he was seething.

His hands gripped the railing as he looked away, staring out over the city lights, the competitive fire still burning in his chest.