Chapter 105

• In Howard Carter's corner office atop Carter Enterprises, sunlight sliced through floor-to-ceiling windows, glinting off the polished mahogany desk strewn with contract drafts. Howard leaned back in his leather chair, tie loosened, dark eyes sharp on the new business deal—Ryan sat across, flipping pages of the merger proposal with a pen tapping rhythm.
• "Lock this clause tighter—vendor liabilities cap at 5%," Howard murmured, pointing. Ryan nodded, scribbling a note. "Solid. Sign by Friday, we're golden—"
• Ryan's phone buzzed sharply on the desk, screen lighting up. Clark. He glanced at Howard, then answered casually, thumb swiping. "What’s up, Clark? Make it quick."