Chapter 29: A Dangerous Proposition

The air between them was thick with tension, the kind that blurred the lines between war and something far more dangerous.

Isabella held Alexander's gaze, unwavering. She could feel the eyes of investors and executives on them, sensing the undercurrent of rivalry that had electrified New York's corporate world.

Alexander, ever composed, took a slow sip of his whiskey before leaning in just enough that only she could hear.

"If you wanted my attention, Isabella," he murmured, his voice smooth as silk, "you didn't have to crash my party. You could have just asked."

Isabella's smirk didn't waver. "I didn't come for your attention, Blackwood. I came to remind your investors that power can shift overnight."

He chuckled, low and deep. "And yet, here you are, drinking my champagne, standing in my ballroom, surrounded by people who trust me." He tilted his head. "So tell me, who's really in control?"

A Strategic Challenge

Claire's voice came through Isabella's earpiece. "Security is circling. We've got five minutes before they escort us out."

Isabella didn't flinch. Instead, she stepped closer to Alexander, her voice just as quiet.

"You want control?" she whispered. "Then let's raise the stakes."

His eyes darkened with intrigue. "I'm listening."

She glanced toward the grand stage, where investors were waiting for his big announcement. "You stand up there and tell them Blackwood Enterprises is the safest bet in the market." She leaned in, her breath brushing his ear. "I bet I can prove you wrong."

Alexander's jaw tightened, but amusement flickered in his gaze. "How exactly do you plan to do that?"

A slow smile played on her lips. "By taking something from you before the night is over."

He exhaled a quiet laugh. "You really don't know when to stop, do you?"

"No." She took a sip of her champagne, eyes gleaming. "And that's why I win."

The Deal

Alexander studied her for a long moment, then did something unexpected.

He extended his hand. "Fine. A wager, then."

She raised an eyebrow. "What kind of wager?"

He smirked. "If you can outmaneuver me tonight—really shake my investors, cost me something tangible—I'll back off Titan Freight and let you have the contract uncontested."

Isabella's heart raced. That deal was too good to ignore.

"And if I lose?" she asked carefully.

His voice was like a promise and a threat all at once. "Then you owe me dinner. One night. Just you and me."

Her pulse spiked. "You think I'd agree to that?"

Alexander shrugged. "You're not afraid, are you?"

Isabella narrowed her eyes before gripping his hand. "Deal."

Their handshake lingered—too long, too intense.

Because this wasn't just about business anymore.

This was about who would break first.