In my previous life, my chip had been a generation ahead of the entire industry. But Stanley had relied on independent R&D and spent ten years closing the gap.
A man like that, I was certain, would become the greatest ally I'd ever have.
We met at a restaurant, and the conversation flowed effortlessly. Once we'd finalized the terms of our partnership, Stanley poured me a glass of red wine.
"To a fruitful collaboration."
I smiled and was just about to take a sip when the glass was snatched from my hand and hurled to the floor.
I looked up. Eugene stood there, his face dark as a thundercloud. Behind him, Sylvia wore a cocktail dress and an expression just as sour.
"Do you have any idea she's allergic to red wine?!" he barked at Stanley, then turned to me with a look of anguished betrayal.
"Rose, I heard you've been going on blind dates. But you shouldn't be throwing yourself at him just to get back at me!"
"Do you even know he's been to prison? How could you stoop so low—"
I raised an eyebrow and said nothing.
Across the table, Stanley's expression hardened. "Mr. Henson. If anyone's stooping low here, it's you and that little assistant climbing her way up beside you."