The Morning After
252 Words
Elena woke up in the master suite, the gold dress discarded on a chair like the remains of a battle. The sun was streaming through the windows, but the penthouse felt quieter than usual. She walked into the living room to find Julian standing at the window, a phone to his ear.
"I don't care about the cost," he was saying, his voice a low growl. "I want the Thorne accounts frozen by noon. If the bank refuses, buy the bank."
He hung up and turned to see her. His eyes scanned her, noting the messy hair and the silk robe she had thrown on. "The gala was a success. The stocks for the Bunyara Group rose ten percent this morning. The market loves a good romance."
"Is that all it was? Market research?" Elena asked, leaning against the doorway.
Julian walked toward her, stopping just close enough to be intimidating. "In my world, everything is research. But that doesn't mean it wasn't enjoyable."
He reached out and tucked a stray hair behind her ear. "Today, we start the clinical trials for the regenerative formula. Your father’s legacy depends on this, Elena. Don't let the distractions of last night slow you down."
"I’m a doctor, Julian. I don't get distracted when it comes to saving lives."
"Good. Because today, the real work begins. Marcus is desperate, and a desperate man will try to kill what he can't have. Stay close to my security team."
- Writer
