Crossroads Of Heart And Ambition

Chapter 1:

Chapter 1

The rain hit the windows of Black Publishing like tiny accusations.

Amara Carter clutched her manuscript to her chest, fingers trembling. Three years. Three years of late nights, skipped meals, and rejection emails. This was it. The last shot.

"Miss Carter?" The receptionist's voice was flat. "Mr. Black will see you now. Five minutes. Don't waste his time."

Five minutes to change her life.

She walked into his office and met cold gray eyes that didn't blink.

"Ethan Black," he said, not standing. "You're late."

"The bus—"

"I don't care," he cut her off. "Leave the manuscript. I'll read it if I have time."

Her throat tightened. "Sir, please. It's about—""About what? Another love story that thinks heartbreak is original?" He leaned back, dismissive. "We have enough."

Amara's cheeks burned. "It's about a girl who has nothing left to lose."

For the first time, his expression shifted. Just slightly.

"Leave it," he said again. "Get out."

She placed the manuscript on his desk and walked out, not knowing it was the last time she'd see him as just an editor.

She placed the manuscript on his desk and walked out, not knowing it was the last time she'd see him as just an editor.