Kian didn't sleep that night. Every time he closed his eyes, Harlow's words replayed in his mind, weaving themselves into a tapestry of ambition and doubt. The offer was tempting, almost too perfect. It was everything he'd worked toward—a leadership role, autonomy, and the chance to prove himself beyond Adrian's influence. But the implications of accepting it churned in his stomach.
The weight of Adrian's reaction added another layer of complexity. His words—*"You don't need Harlow to prove your worth"—*had struck a nerve, but they hadn't fully silenced the doubts gnawing at Kian. Was Adrian protecting him, or was he simply trying to maintain control?
By the time the sun rose, Kian had made his decision.
---
The office was already buzzing when Kian arrived, the usual Monday energy heightened by whispers of impending changes. He made his way to his desk, determined to push through the day without letting his turmoil show.
