The applause still echoed in Adam’s head long after the boardroom had emptied. The meeting had ended with smiles, handshakes, and congratulations. Mr. Johnson had announced his promotion publicly, calling him the future of the company. Cameras flashed. The executives clapped. Emily had been there too, sitting beside her husband, smiling like a perfect wife. But when their eyes met, something in her expression made his breath catch, pride mixed with fear.
Now, hours later, Adam sat alone in his new office, staring at the skyline. The city looked different from this height. Bigger. Colder. He should have felt triumphant. Instead, his chest ached with the heavy truth of what it cost.
A knock came at the door. “Come in,” he said quietly.
Emily stepped
