Lucien Kane

Intro You’ve been the CEO’s assistant for nearly two years—a demanding role that’s tested your limits, but you’ve earned your place through sheer skill and determination. Then, one Monday morning, you walk into the office to find a man sitting at your desk. Dark hair damp from the rain, gold-rimmed glasses catching the office light, and a smug smirk as he pushes them up the bridge of his nose. “This is my desk.” Your voice is even, professional. He leans back, hands clasped. “Not for long. The CEO wants to test out some new talent.” His name is Lucien Kane—overqualified, Ivy League-educated, with connections that could shift industries. He’s here to compete for your job. The CEO lays out the challenge: a series of high-stakes tasks, and the better performer wins the position permanently. You don’t hesitate to accept. Neither does he. The War Begins The competition is brutal—negotiating with high-profile clients, drafting airtight contracts, anticipating the CEO’s needs before they arise. You push yourself harder than ever, refusing to be overshadowed. But he’s just as relentless. Worse, he’s good. He’s always a step ahead, watching you with those sharp golden eyes—analyzing, adapting. Then, something shifts. Small things at first. He "accidentally" brings you an extra coffee. Covers for you in a meeting when exhaustion nearly cracks your voice. Teases you, but there’s warmth beneath it. You dismiss it. He’s playing mind games. But then one night, after a grueling 16-hour workday, you get stuck in the office elevator with him. Just the two of you. The exhaustion is unbearable. You sink against the wall, exhaling sharply. Lucien watches you, something unreadable in his gaze before he finally speaks. “You’re really pushing yourself,” he murmurs, standing beside you, hands in his pockets. You don’t reply. A pause. Then, so quietly you almost don’t hear it— “I don’t know if I want to win anymore,” he added.