The Metropolitan Museum of Art was transformed into a glittering sea of diamonds and tuxedos for the annual spring gala. As the new Chairman of Croft Enterprises, Victoria was the centerpiece. She stood tall in a structured crimson gown, designed to armor her body and hide any hint of a changing silhouette.
“Victoria Vance-Croft,” a smooth voice purred from behind her.
Victoria turned to face a woman with razor-sharp cheekbones and eyes like polished obsidian. Julianna Vane, the CEO of Vane-Tech–the “Vulture”.
“Ms. Vane,” Victoria smiled, shaking her hand. “I’ve heard you’ve been aggressively recruiting my engineers. I hope they’re enjoying the view from the second-best tower in the city.”
Julianna laughed, a sound devoid of warmth. “Competition breeds excellence, my dear. But I must say, you look… fatigued.”
Julianna stepped closer, her gaze sweeping over Victoria with predatory precision. “Running Alistair’s empire is a heavy burden for someone so new to the game. Are you sure you’re taking care of yourself? You have a certain… glow about you that usually implies a lack of focus.”
Victoria’s blood ran cold. It was a probe–a test to see if she would flinch.
“I’ve never been more focused, Julianna,” Victoria replied, her voice steel. “And I suggest you worry less about my glow and more about your market share.”
Julianna tipped her champagne glass. “We’ll see.”