The Sterling International headquarters stood like a fortress of glass and steel in the heart of the city. No prominent signs, no excessive crowds. Yet everyone in the business world knew who held power behind its walls.
Ethan stepped out of the car without bodyguards.
He had deliberately come alone.
Not because he was foolish.
But because he knew this was not a meeting that could be won with force.
The private elevator took Ethan straight to the top floor. The doors slid open with a soft sound, revealing a long corridor lined with dark marble. At the end, large wooden doors slowly swung open.
Marcus stood there.
Calm.
Too calm for someone who had just shaken the market.
"I was starting to wonder if you'd actually show up," Marcus said, his voice flat.
Ethan walked in without taking the hand that was never offered. "You wanted to talk. I'm here."
The door closed behind him.
