Episode -2 First Encounter

Austin's eyes widened as he look in Ethan's tailored suit and confident demeanor.

"You're...?" Austin began.

"Ethan Blackwood," he replied, his gaze lingering on Austin's paint-splattered backpack. "And you are?"

"Austin Reed," he said, feeling a flutter in his chest.

Their handshake was firm, but Austin sensed a spark of electricity.

Ethan's eyes narrowed. "What brings you to the gallery, Austin?"

Austin hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "Just admiring the art," he said finally.

Ethan nodded. "I'm giving a lecture on entrepreneurship later. Perhaps you'll attend?"

Austin's heart skipped a beat. "I'll try," he said, feeling drawn to Ethan's charismatic presence.

As they parted ways, Austin couldn't shake off the feeling that their encounter was more than coincidence.

Adam took his seat in the packed auditorium, he skips his lecture & is curious about Ethan's lecture on entrepreneurship. As Ethan stepped onto the stage, confidence radiated from him.

"Welcome, students," Ethan began. "Today, we'll discuss innovation and risk-taking. The key to success lies not in playing it safe, but in embracing uncertainty."

Adam listened intently, Ethan's words resonated with his own desires to break free from his predetermined path.

After the lecture, Ethan invited students to ask questions. Adam hesitated, then raised his hand.

"Yes, Mr. Reed?" Ethan said with a hint of recognition.

"Adam," he corrected. "How do you balance creativity with a business strategy?"

Ethan smiled showcasing himself as a very friendly person . "That's where the art comes in, Adam. Finding harmony between vision and execution. Would you like to discuss further?" Everyone was shocked to see Austin never participate in any of these lectures.

Adam nodded, his heart racing.

As the audience dispersed, Ethan approached Adam. "Follow me"

Adam agreed, feeling a spark of excitement as Ethan was the first person who showed interest in his arts and of course he is Ceo ob Blackwood industries .

Outside, Ethan led Adam to a nearby café, his strides long and purposeful. Adam struggled to keep pace.

"Sit," Ethan commanded, gesturing to a chair.

Adam sat, taken aback by Ethan's abruptness.

A waitress arrived, and Ethan ordered both of them without asking Adam's preference.

"Coffee, black," Ethan said.

Adam raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

As the waitress departed, Ethan leaned back, his eyes narrowing.

"I've reviewed your portfolio, Adam. Impressive."

Adam's eyes sparkled. "Thank you."

Ethan's expression remained cold. "Don't get ahead of yourself. I'm not here to coddle your ego."

Adam's face flushed.

The waitress returned with their coffee, breaking the tension.

Ethan sipped his coffee, his eyes never leaving Adam's.

"I have an idea for a project," Ethan said, his voice dripping with condescension. "You'll bring the artistic vision; I'll handle the business end."

Adam's eyes widened. "I'd love to hear more."

Ethan leaned in, his voice taking on a hint of superiority.

"I think we can create something revolutionary. But I expect nothing but excellence."

Rachel, Ethan's secretary, watched from across the café, her eyes wide with shock.

She had never seen Ethan invite anyone to coffee, let alone discuss a project with such intensity.

As Adam and Ethan parted ways, Ethan handed Adam his business card.

"Tomorrow, 9 a.m. My office. Don't be late."

Adam nodded, still reeling from Ethan's arrogance.

"Sir?" Rachel approached Ethan, her voice hesitant.

"Yes?" Ethan replied, his eyes still fixed on Adam's retreating figure.

"You... invited him to coffee," Rachel stammered.

Ethan's expression froze. "What is it?"

Rachel's eyes darted around the café, ensuring they were out of earshot.

"You never do that, sir. You're always... distant."

Ethan's gaze snapped back to Rachel.

"This is business, Rachel. Nothing more."

Rachel nodded, but her eyes betrayed her skepticism.

She knew Ethan better than anyone she is working with for like 3 yrs now

And she saw something in his eyes that gave her hope, that Ethan really belongs to this world.

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