bad combination

Julian's pov

As I sat at my desk, typing away on my laptop, my assistant Mike burst in, looking frazzled. "Sir, Mr. Venon is requesting a face-to-face meeting before he'll sign the contract."

I clenched my jaw, feeling a surge of annoyance. Venon's stubbornness was legendary, and I had a feeling this meeting was going to be a challenge. I needed his assets in the construction industry, and his partnership in my company would be a game-changer. But dealing with his arrogance was a price I wasn't sure I was willing to pay.

"Fine," I growled, still typing away. "Where and when should I meet him?"

Mike hesitated before responding, "A charity event gala, sir. It's happening today."

I glared at him, feeling a wave of frustration wash over me. A gala was the last thing I wanted to attend, especially when I had more pressing matters to attend to. But I knew I had to play nice if I wanted to get Venon on board.

"Fine," I repeated, slamming my laptop shut. "Make the preparations for the gala. My suit, the car... everything."

Mike nodded hastily and scurried out of the room, leaving me to seethe in frustration. I didn't want to see Venon, with his condescending attitude and his infuriating smirk. He was too much like me – arrogant, stubborn, and always getting his way. It was a combination that was bound to end in disaster.

But I pushed aside my reservations and focused on getting ready for the gala. I adjusted my suit, making sure I looked impeccable, and headed to my apartment in my sleek white Lamborghini Aventador.

As I stepped out of the car, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. My blue suit was perfectly tailored, my black Rolex gleaming on my wrist. I gelled my hair, making sure every strand was in place, and smoothed out my clean-shaven stubble.

I looked like a million bucks, and I knew I was ready to take on Venon and whatever the night had in store. With a confident smile, I headed into the gala, ready to seal the deal and make my mark on the business world.

As I entered the gala, I scanned the room for Mr. Venon. I spotted him across the room, standing by the bar, sipping a glass of scotch. He looked every bit the part of a wealthy businessman, dressed in a tailored black tuxedo, his silver hair perfectly styled.

But what struck me was how young he looked. Despite being 68 years old, he had the energy and vitality of a man half his age. His eyes sparkled with intelligence, and his smile was warm and charming.

I made my way over to him, nodding at the other guests as I passed. When I reached Mr. Venon, I extended my hand, and he shook it firmly.

"Julian, good to finally meet you," he said, his voice deep and resonant.

"The pleasure is mine, Mr. Venon," I replied, smiling.

We chatted for a few minutes, exchanging small talk about the gala and the charity it was supporting. But I could tell Mr. Venon was eager to get down to business.

"Julian, I must say, I'm impressed with your proposal," he said, his eyes narrowing as he studied me. "But I have some concerns."

"I'm happy to address them, Mr. Venon," I said, leaning forward slightly.

"I'm not sure I want to partner with someone as... aggressive as you," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You have a reputation for being ruthless in business."

I smiled, unfazed by his words. "I prefer to think of myself as driven, Mr. Venon. And I'm willing to do whatever it takes to succeed."

Mr. Venon chuckled, a low, rumbling sound. "I like your spirit, Julian. But I need to know that you're willing to listen to me, to take my advice and consider my perspective."

I nodded, sensing that this was a test. "I'm happy to listen, Mr. Venon. And I value your experience and insight."

Mr. Venon studied me for a moment, then nodded. "Good. I think we can work together, Julian. But I need to see more of your proposal, to understand the details of your plan."

I smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. "I'd be happy to provide you with more information, Mr. Venon. And I'm confident that, together, we can make this project a success."

Mr. Venon smiled back, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I'm looking forward to it, Julian. Let's shake on it and make it official."

We shook hands, and I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation. This was just the beginning of a new chapter in my business career, and I was ready to take on the challenge.