The Merger

"You're going into battle," Elena says, watching me apply lipstick with military precision. "Are you sure you're armed for it?"

I study my reflection in my office mirror, taking in the sharp lines of my black designer suit, silk pressed hair down, and the red lipstick that Maya calls my "corporate assassin" shade.

"Victoria Sterling invited me to the most expensive restaurant in Seattle to discuss business," I reply, fastening diamond earrings that were my gift to myself when ElevateHR hit its first million in revenue. "But we both know this isn't about business."

"Then what's it about?"

"Power. Territory. And figuring out what she really wants from me." I turn away from the mirror, grabbing my Hermès clutch-another success milestone purchase. "She's not doing this out of the goodness of her heart."

Elena leans back in her chair, studying me with the sharp focus that makes her such an effective business partner. "You're going in protective of Jake."

"I'm going in cautious about everyone involved."

"Kaia." Elena's voice gets serious. "I know this morning's coffee meeting affected you. I can see it in your posture, hear it in your voice. But don't let attraction cloud your judgment."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means Jake Morrison looked at you like you were already his, told you he acquired you instead of your company, and instead of being offended, you're glowing like a woman who's been thoroughly claimed." Elena stands, moving closer. "That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it does mean you're emotionally invested in a way that could be dangerous."

I want to argue, but she's right. This morning's meeting left me feeling something I haven't felt in years-wanted, not just professionally but personally, by a man powerful enough to make that want matter.

"So what do you suggest?"

"Go to dinner. Listen to everything Victoria has to say. But remember that both of them have agendas, and yours might not align with either of theirs." Elena picks up my coat, holding it while I slip my arms through the sleeves. "Trust your instincts, not your emotions."

"And if my instincts tell me Victoria's full of shit?"

Elena grins. "Then make sure you have evidence to back that up before you burn any bridges."

The Metropolis Club occupies the top three floors of a downtown high-rise, with panoramic views of Elliott Bay and the kind of understated luxury that whispers rather than shouts about exclusivity. The maître d' knows my name without introduction-a sign that Victoria's done her homework about where to impress me.

"Ms. Williams, Ms. Sterling is waiting for you in the Aurora private dining room."

Of course she booked a private dining room. Nothing says "I have something sensitive to discuss" like ensuring no one can overhear the conversation.

The Aurora room offers floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the Seattle skyline at sunset, a table set for two with crystal and silver that probably costs more than most people's monthly rent, and Victoria Sterling herself, positioned with her back to the view so I'll have to look at both her and the impressive backdrop she's arranged.

Strategic positioning. She's good at this.

"Kaia," Victoria rises as I enter, extending a perfectly manicured hand. "Thank you for coming. You look stunning."

She, herself, is impeccably dressed, wearing a cream-colored suit that probably cost more than my car, with jewelry that's clearly real and clearly expensive. Her blonde hair framing her face, that showcases cheekbones that could cut glass, and her makeup is flawless without looking overdone.