The Delmont Royale Hotel's restaurant has softly glowing crystal chandeliers that reflect the golden sparkles on the marble walls. The atmosphere inside the restaurant was sophisticated yet cozy, with piano music playing in the corner, creating a private atmosphere away from the noise and bustle of the outside world.
Tiberius Marlowe and Ivy Calder sat at the far end of the table, away from view of the other guests, staring at one another in the light of the candles. Tiber wore an exquisite black suit, and Ivy looked lovely in a red silk gown that caressed her figure gracefully. The look in their eyes conveys an unconscious understanding—a bargain involving not only business but also their deep personal goals.
Tiber took a slow sip of her wine, her eyes fixed on Ivy. "You know why I called you here, Ivy."
Ivy grinned faintly as she lowered her wine glass. "Of course I do. You rarely ask me to come unless you have a huge plan."
"There's a new project I'm working on," Tiber said, his tone deep but powerful. "It's going to be the next revolution in cybersecurity, but to get full support, I need people in Congress and some key businessmen on my side."
Ivy gazed up at him, her smile still on her face, but she understood this wasn't just about technology. "Do you want me to make sure they agree? You understand that's no easy feat."
Tiber leaned forwards, his gaze never leaving Ivy. "That's why I need somebody like you. You have tremendous contacts on Capitol Hill, and you understand how to play the game better than anybody else. You can persuade them using all methods required."
Ivy understood what he meant. As a rising politician, she had the ability to sway opinions and even influence decisions made behind closed doors. But she was also aware of the cost of the game, as well as Tiber's willingness to go beyond ethical lines to achieve his goals.
"And what do I get out of all this, Tiber?" Ivy twirled her wine glass, her eyes bright with curiosity.
"I know you're not one to give without expecting something in return." Tiber smiled coldly; his lips formed a thin line. "You will have the full support of the major businessmen that I manage. If this project is successful, your political position will be strengthened. In addition," he paused, watching Ivy's reaction. "I can get a significant campaign fund for you in the future election. You understand how vital financial assistance is, right?"
Ivy was silent for a minute, considering the proposition. Tiber never negotiated halfheartedly. What she had to offer was always appealing, and Ivy understood how pricey such backing might be in the fascinating world of politics.
"Sounds interesting," Ivy eventually remarked, her eyes full of ambition. "But I need more assurances than that. If I help you achieve this endorsement, I want you to ensure that my other initiatives run well. Infrastructure initiatives for small towns. I require the assistance of local businessmen, and you have links with them. Can you arrange that?"
Tiber smiled proudly. "Of course. Consider it finished."
They exchanged silent glances, but there was more to their accord than business and politics. They were significant players in their world, and they all recognized that the game was about more than just power. Tiber completed his meal and looked at Ivy.
"We've discussed enough business for tonight. We know what we want and how to get it."
Ivy gazed up at Tiber, a naughty smile spreading across her face. "You're correct. There is no purpose in staying here. How about we continue somewhere more private?"
Tiber said nothing, simply nodded, and stood up. He approached Ivy, sliding his chair back slightly to allow her to stand. Ivy graciously accepted the invitation, and they left the restaurant together oblivious to any other diners who might have noticed them.
***
The door to the hotel's top-floor suite opened gently, and Ivy was the first to enter, followed by Tiber. The room was luxurious, with a canopy bed with silk sheets, a crystal chandelier casting a pleasant glow, and wide windows providing a panoramic view of the city. Only a faint sound of rain could be heard outside.
Ivy stood in front of the window, her back to Tiber, as if to allow him to admire her flawless silhouette beneath the red dress. Tiber approached, his hand gently stroking Ivy's waist and drawing her in without a word. Ivy did not move, allowing him to take control of the situation.
"I've imagined this for a long time," Tiber muttered in Ivy's ear. "Not just this project, but you."
Ivy smiled softly and closed her eyes as Tiber began to nuzzle her neck, forgetting about the discussions they had just had. Outside, they were titans of commerce and politics, but behind the doors of this hotel room, the game they played was about a more intimate power: power over one another.
"Be careful, Mr. Marlowe. You're playing a dangerous game." Ivy closed her eyes frequently, relishing Tiber's smooth, lethal cadence.
There was no affection between them. There is just need, ambition, and power. Tiber understands that Ivy is the ideal tool for him to achieve his goals, and Ivy understands that Tiber is the only man who can provide her with everything she desires—except her heart. But behind it all, they both understand that the game must continue. Without flaw. Without emotion.
"Let me have you tonight, Ivy." Tiber begins to catch up with the game's rhythm. His hands become savage, and he goes crazy.
They take off their clothes one by one while making out. Ivy couldn't resist playing along with Tiber's cruel game. Ivy returns Tiber's wildness. Ivy kisses Tiber's lips quickly, moving to his neck and shoulders as her hands dance wildly on Tiber's body.
The night ends with the two of them on the bed, their silence broken only by the sound of rain outside. They were two powerful characters that used and understood each other but also destroyed each other from within. They were tied not by love but by a larger game, one that would either propel them to the peak of power or destroy them totally.
***