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Chapter 152
~Snow’s POV~
I set the report down, leaning back in my chair as I crossed my arms. "For what?" My tone was as sharp as the irritation burning under my skin.
This day had already started poorly; I wasn’t in the mood for social niceties.
"A bit of friendly competition," Archer replied, his jovial tone doing little to soothe my mood. "We’re heading to the field for some sports. It’s a tradition among my team, and all the men are expected to join. It’s a good way to build camaraderie."
"Camaraderie," I echoed, barely holding back a scoff. "I appreciate the offer, but I have a full workload. Perhaps another time."
I expected him to accept my polite refusal and leave, but instead, his expression shifted—his smile remained, but his eyes sharpened. The air between us thickened.
"Snow," he said, stepping closer and lowering his voice, "this partnership we’re building isn’t just about ink on a contract. It’s about trust, teamwork, and, most importantly, shared experiences."
"I understand that," I said, keeping my tone measured. "But I also believe in prioritizing efficiency. My time is better spent ensuring this partnership thrives behind the scenes."
Archer’s smile widened, though it didn’t reach his eyes. "You see, that’s where you’re mistaken. Deals like ours aren’t just sealed in boardrooms. They’re cemented on the field, over dinners, and through moments of connection."
I clenched my jaw, the weight of his words pressing against my chest. His meaning was clear—this wasn’t an invitation; it was an expectation.
"You’re a smart man, Zephyr," Archer continued, his voice dripping with condescension masked as camaraderie. "You know how quickly reputations can be made—or broken."
The subtle threat ignited a flare of anger, but I forced myself to remain composed. Glacier growled, his irritation echoing my own.
"You’re saying that if I don’t join your... friendly competition, it’ll reflect poorly on me?" I asked, my voice cool and deliberate.
"Exactly," Archer replied smoothly. "We’re a team, Snow. And teams stick together."
I stared at him for a long moment, my mind churning. The thought of spending hours on some meaningless game while my priorities waited was infuriating. But the alternative—alienating a key partner—wasn’t an option.
"Fine," I said finally, my tone clipped. "Let’s go."
"Excellent," Archer said, clapping his hands together as though he’d just closed another deal. "You’ll see—it’ll be good for you to step away from the desk for a while."
He turned to leave, pausing at the door to glance back at me. "Oh, and Zephyr? Bring your A-game. My team plays to win."
I waited until the door closed behind him before letting out a slow, frustrated exhale.
"Arrogant prick," Glacier muttered.
I couldn’t argue with him. This wasn’t camaraderie—it was a power play. And I’d just been backed into a corner.
Sliding the report into my bag, I stood and adjusted my shirt. If Archer wanted a show, he’d get one. But I wouldn’t let him forget who he was dealing with.
As I followed him out, my thoughts drifted to Zara. I’d been so focused on protecting her from Jenna’s schemes that I hadn’t had a chance to tell her about my feelings.
Soon, I promised myself. As soon as this nonsense was over, I’d make things right.
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~Zara’s POV~
The afternoon sunlight streamed through my bedroom window as I flipped through the files on my desk. The work should have been enough to distract me, but my thoughts kept drifting to Snow and his upcoming return.
Why, you may ask but I did not know.
I had Zade, I had Ella and Elias, my brother to keep me company but still, I di not welcome the thought pof paying them a visit and instead focused on Snow.
The way he laughed, teased me, his kisses, those soft thin lips of his and his lovely hair, made my insides tingle.
Snow’s face was buried between her bare breasts, his hand inside her, the scene so explicit I had to look away as my stomach churned. frёeωebɳovel.com
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