The meeting room at Lux Heights Tower was designed to intimidate. With its high ceilings, sleek chrome accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the bustling city below, it was the kind of space meant to make even the most confident negotiator feel small. But Malia felt anything but small as she walked into the room.
Her heels clicked sharply against the marble floor as she approached the table where Evelyn Creed sat waiting. Evelyn was the picture of poise, her ash-blonde hair pulled into a flawless chignon, and her emerald-green pantsuit tailored to perfection. She radiated an air of effortless authority, the kind that only came with years of wielding power.
"Malia," Evelyn greeted warmly, rising from her chair and extending a hand. Her voice was smooth, polished. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I've heard so much about your work."
