Three

William

“You and Yarrus Corp aren’t going to win,” I spat, venom lacing my words. “I’ll make sure of it.”

Tristan arched a brow, feigning innocence. “Are you talking to me?”

I leaned in slightly, my tone sharp. “Are you celebrating early, or do you always drink like you’ve got something to overcompensate for?”

He let out a dry huff, rolling his eyes. “Excuse me for having a drink. Didn’t realize I needed your approval.”

My jaw tightened as I smiled coldly. “It’s good you’re here, though. Maybe you can call up a few women to keep you company—get them drunk enough, and who knows? You might actually get lucky.”

His hand froze mid-motion, glass hovering near his mouth. I knew I’d struck a nerve, so I shrugged casually, pressing on.

“After all, you’d need a drink or three to convince someone to sleep with you.”

Tristan’s expression darkened, his face twisting into something dangerous. His voice dropped, low and biting. “Say that again.”

I ignored him, signaling to the bartender like he wasn’t even worth my attention.

“I said—say that again,” he growled, louder this time.

Before I could react, a hand fisted in my shirt, yanking me forward until our faces were only inches apart.

“You bastard,” Tristan sneered, his tone ice-cold.

I smirked, unfazed. “Go on then. What’s stopping you?”

A loud, authoritative voice cut through the rising tension. “No fighting in my bar!”

We both froze as the bartender snapped his fingers. In a matter of seconds, two bouncers appeared out of nowhere and unceremoniously tossed us onto the street.

I stumbled but recovered quickly, brushing myself off as Tristan glared at me, his hair disheveled and frustration written all over his face.

I couldn’t help it—my lips curled into a victorious smile. “Aw, don’t look so grumpy. Did I ruin your little night out?”

He turned to walk away, clearly done with me, but I wasn’t finished yet.

“Wait,” I called out, making him pause. “Let’s make this interesting.”

Tristan turned halfway, eyeing me warily. “What are you babbling about now?”

I tilted my head, matching his glare with a smirk. “A bet. I’ll land the deal with Terra Corporation before you do. Winner gets a favor of their choosing from the loser.”

He scoffed, though the fire in his gaze betrayed his interest. “You think you stand a chance?”

“I know I do,” I shot back. “Unless you’re too scared to lose.”

He stepped closer, his face inches from mine, eyes burning with challenge. “Fine. You’re on. But don’t come crying to me when you lose.”

“Oh, don’t worry,” I replied with a confident grin. “I’ll save my tears for the favor you’re going to owe me.”

Tristan shook his head with a humorless chuckle before stalking off, leaving me there with the undeniable satisfaction of having rattled him and the thrill of a challenge that I was determined to win.

“I'm looking forward to it.” he said. I didn't hesitate to shake his hand firmly.

The moment I touched him, something coiled in my belly. I hadn't expected his hands to be this large. I wasn't small in any way, only lean above average but his hands seemed to engulf mine. His skin was warm and the heat seemed to ebb.

The scent of his cologne mixed in with the whiskey reached my nose and it made my belly heat up strangely.

What was going on with me?

Suddenly his hand pulled away, leaving mine in mid-air. I looked up to find his eyes were dark and his expression was screwed up in…anger?

He turned away, mushing oast me without a word. Annoyance sparked inside me as I watched him leave without a second glance.

What the hell?

…

“I don't understand him. One minute he's okay and it feels like I can nearly stand him and then he suddenly acts like a jackass again.” I scoffed.

I ranted to Ellie, my best friend who supported me through my struggle after the breakup, about what happened that evening.

“Don't think about him anymore bubba.” She said, calling me by her personal nickname for me. It always helped calm me down.

“I know. I just…” I sighed, “What if he's already far ahead of me? I can't lose this deal.”

“Stop talking like that. That isn't the Will I know and love,” she huffed from the phone in indigo action,

“Sure, maybe he may have come in earlier but what does it matter? I know you and what you're capable of. You've got the smarts, confidence and the charm to win them over. You have nothing to worry about. All you have to do is use those natural gifts of yours.”

“Yeah, Maybe you're right.” I nodded, determination surging in my chest.

“I'm always right. Now go get some rest and blow them away tomorrow.” She kissed him goodnight through the phone before the call ended.

So what if he met the CEO earlier? It wasn't the end of the world and it didn't mean the end of business.

The number one rule in business was to use all advantages and disadvantages as an opportunity. Tristan was a thorn in his side, but I was William Bracknell and I was going to use all my advantages.

…

The next day, I returned to the building with my spirits noticeably higher. Giving up simply wasn’t an option.

As I waited, a man entering the lobby caught my eye. I recognized him immediately—Mr. Mirand. He was one of the CEO’s close associates, someone I’d uncovered during my earlier investigation of the company.

If I could get to him, I’d be one step closer to victory.

Without a moment’s hesitation, I stood up, adjusted my suit, and approached him with a practiced smile.

“Mr. Mirand! What a pleasant coincidence to see you here.” I turned on the charm, my tone smooth and confident. “Do you remember me? William Bracknell, from Bracknell Inc. We met at that party a while back.”

I watched as his cautious expression eased, recognition flickering in his eyes. His guard lowered, and my smile widened.

“To be honest,” I added lightly, “I’m here for my own reasons, but perhaps we should grab lunch sometime. I know a fantastic restaurant that is quiet and private. Perfect for a good conversation.”

Mr. Mirand’s interest sparked; the gleam in his eyes told me I had him on the hook. He nodded, agreeing to a time before continuing on his way with a polite smile.

The moment he was out of sight, I sprang into action. I called one of the most exclusive restaurants in town, made arrangements, and stopped by several shops to prepare. By the time lunch rolled around, everything was set to perfection.

When Mr. Mirand arrived, the private room was immaculate with an elegant spread of dishes, luxurious boxes arranged like a tribute.

“Mr. Mirand,” I began, my tone honeyed and casual, “I heard it was your wife’s birthday last week. I couldn’t let that pass without preparing something special for her. I hope I’m not being too forward.”

His wary smile twitched as he glanced at the beautifully wrapped boxes. “You didn’t have to do that,” he said, though his tone softened.

“Please.” I waved a dismissive hand, wearing my most sincere expression. “I could never take them back in good conscience. Now, what would you like to eat?”

I kept the conversation flowing, carefully guiding it with charm and subtle flattery. At first, Mr. Mirand was hesitant, his discomfort obvious. But I didn’t let up. I poured on the praises, kept the atmosphere light, and offered him nothing but warmth and expensive generosity.

Slowly, I watched the shift happen. His posture relaxed, his wariness faded and by the end, he was genuinely smiling and eating well while enjoying the attention and clearly pleased with the lavish gifts.

“Thank you for all of this, Mr. Bracknell” he said, his voice sincere now. “My family will be thrilled. I really don’t know how to repay you.”

“Please, call me William” I replied smoothly, my voice laced with faux innocence. “And honestly, it’s just a small gesture. I do, however, have a tiny request.”

I gestured subtly to the remaining boxes lined neatly across the table. “The rest of these gifts are actually meant for the CEO. I haven’t had the honor of meeting him yet, but Bracknell Inc. is eager to work with someone of his caliber. These are just a token of appreciation, but I don’t have a way to get them to him. Would it be asking too much for you to help deliver them?”

Mr. Mirand paused, his expression contemplative. I held my breath, masking my anticipation with a calm smile.

Finally, he exhaled, a small grin pulling at his lips. “It’s no trouble at all. I’ll make sure the CEO knows.”

His words rang like a victory bell in my ears, satisfaction rushing through me like fire in my veins.

Checkmate.