In another penthouse in Manhattan, Olivia Winters stepped into the spacious living room, in a chic black mini skirt and an oversized off-shoulder sweater that draped casually over her slender frame. Her usually confident demeanour faltered momentarily as she greeted Julian, who sat in an armchair by the floor-to-ceiling windows, engrossed in his iPad.
"Julian, long time no see," Olivia began, her voice attempting a blend of charm and urgency. Julian glanced up briefly, his expression unreadable, before returning his attention to the screen. Undeterred by his initial indifference, Olivia softened her tone.
"I came to make a deal with you. You want Emily Johnson, and I want Alex Stratton. It's a win-win for us," Olivia proposed, her voice carrying a hint of uncertainty.
"What's your plan?" Julian responded, his voice cool and composed, betraying none of his thoughts.
