Sebastian sat at a corner table in the restaurant, the dim light from the chandelier spilling soft golden circles across his half‑empty glass. The low hum of chatter and clinking cutlery filled the background, but he barely noticed it. His mind was elsewhere.
He leaned back in his chair, his expression hard, brows drawn tight. The last few weeks had been brutal. Every time he came close to sealing a deal, Lucas had stepped in and taken it away.
He raised the glass and took a deep sip, hoping the burn of the drink would drown out the frustration swirling in his chest. For a moment, it worked. The noise of the restaurant seemed distant, dull. He let his eyes unfocus, letting the drink calm his nerves.
But peace, as usual, didn't last long.
Just as the waiter placed another glass on his table, a voice broke through. "Sir—sir, please excuse me."
