The glass building of Carter Global stood tall against the Los Angeles skyline, shining under the morning sun. Olivia Bennett adjusted her blazer as she walked into the lobby, her heels clicking on the marble floor. It was supposed to be a regular workday—but it wasn't.
Her heart raced as she headed to the elevator. Everyone was talking about a surprise meeting with Ryan Carter, the CEO of the company.
Ryan Carter. The man she used to love. The man who left her behind to build the empire she now worked for.
Since joining Carter Global two years ago, Olivia had done everything to avoid him. His name was everywhere, his face on magazine covers, but he was like a ghost in her daily life. Until today.
She stepped into the elevator, gripping her tablet tightly. "It's fine," she muttered. "Just a meeting."
But it wasn't just the meeting making her hands sweat. Memories of his smile, his laugh, the way he once made her feel like she was his whole world—they all came rushing back.
The conference room was sleek and modern, with huge windows, a long oak table, and leather chairs. Olivia chose a seat in the middle, keeping her head down as other executives entered.
Then, the door opened.
Ryan Carter walked in, calm and confident. His tailored suit fit perfectly, and his sharp green eyes scanned the room, pausing briefly on Olivia before moving on.
Her stomach knotted. Did he recognize her? His face gave nothing away.
"Good morning," he said, his voice smooth and firm. "Let's keep this quick. We're closing the Delmar Tech deal, and I need everyone at their best."
Olivia scribbled notes, avoiding his gaze, but she couldn't ignore his presence—it was impossible.
"We'll need updated reports by the end of the day. Olivia…"
Her head snapped up. Ryan's eyes locked onto hers.
"You'll be working with me on this," he said. "I need your input on the strategy."
Her throat tightened, but she forced her voice to stay steady. "Of course, Mr. Carter."
He nodded, moving on, but the tension between them lingered.
As the meeting ended and the others left, Olivia stayed back, gathering her things and trying to catch her breath.
"Olivia."
The sound of her name stopped her. She turned to see Ryan by the window, staring out at the city.
"You've done well here," he said, his tone unreadable.
"Thank you," she replied carefully.
He turned to face her, his eyes sharp. "I mean it. I remember you saying you wanted to make a name for yourself."
Her chest tightened at the memory. "And you said you wanted to build an empire," she shot back.
A small smile tugged at his lips. "Looks like we both did."
The air grew heavy with old emotions, things they'd never said. Before Olivia could respond, Ryan turned back to the window.
"Welcome to the big leagues," he said. "Let's see if you can keep up."