Gabriel's POV
I pushed open my office door, feeling the tightness in my chest grow as I began pacing. I knew I was about to stir things up, and there was no going back. The team’s presentations had been impressive, making the decision tough, but I’d already made up my mind. There was no need for a shortlist or further debate—I had chosen my winner.
Clairessa Hartwood.
Her presentation stood out, easily outshining Nicole’s—the friend Adrian had introduced me to, asking me to consider her app since she worked at the company.
I hadn’t yet placed Nicole on the team, wanting her to go head-to-head with whoever I chose as a final candidate. It was meant to be a favor to Adrian. Her idea for a global financial payment platform was solid but posed too many challenges for Storm Innovations at
