Chapter Thirteen: The Offer

The next day, Maya walked into The Pulse's offices for the first time in months.

Langley's assistant led her to his office, where he sat behind his desk, ever the same—tie slightly loosened, desk cluttered, but his sharp eyes fixed on her.

"Maya," he greeted. "Good to see you."

She sat across from him, arms crossed. "So, what's this about?"

Langley leaned back. "Your magazine has potential. You're hitting a market that media companies are struggling to reach. I want The Pulse to acquire Concrete Roses."

Maya blinked. "You want to buy it?"

"A partnership," he clarified. "We'd bring you under our umbrella—give you resources, distribution, staff."

Maya exhaled slowly. This was huge. A deal like this could put Concrete Roses on another level.

But it also meant giving up control.

Langley smirked. "I know you, Maya. You're ambitious. This is your chance to take this beyond what you could do alone."

She studied him. This was the same man who never believed in her vision before. But now that she had proven herself, he wanted in?

Maya stood. "I'll think about it."

Langley nodded. "Don't take too long. Opportunities don't wait."

As she left his office, her mind raced.

Partnership or independence?

Security or full ownership?

It was the biggest decision of her career.

And she had no idea what to do next.