Russell Harper was not a man who liked losing. He had built his empire by exploiting weaknesses, predicting moves, and staying three steps ahead. Watching Sharon walk out of his office was a blow to his ego, but also a challenge he intended to overcome.
He swirled the whiskey in his glass, his gaze fixed on the Aurora City skyline. He replayed Sharon’s words in his mind,her defiance, her accusations. For the first time in years, someone had genuinely called him out on his manipulation, and it unsettled him more than he cared to admit.
A soft knock at the door broke his thoughts.
"Come in," Russell said, his tone curt.
Monica stepped in, holding a thick file. "Mr. Harper, I’ve gathered the preliminary reports on Carter & Co. and Sharon Sims."
Russell turned, his predatory smile returni
