Chapter 2: Forced Collaboration

The board meeting ended with a surprising twist. Impressed by Clara’s vision yet unsatisfied with her agency’s independent control, Ethan made an

unyielding decision: Clara’s team would merge directly with Vance Global’s internal creative department for the upcoming European Luxury Campaign.

“You can’t be serious, Ethan,” Clara protested in his private office right after the meeting, dropping formal titles in her annoyance.

Ethan leaned back in his leather chair, unbuttoning his suit jacket. “It’s Mr. Vance in this building, Miss Montgomery. And yes, I am entirely

serious. If you want this multi-million Euro contract, you work under my direct supervision.”

Clara tightened her grip on her folder. “My team doesn’t need babysitting. We have won awards across Paris and Milan without corporate

micromanagement.”

“And yet, you are here bidding for my company’s backing,” Ethan said calmly, standing up and walking over to the floor-to-ceiling glass window

overlooking the skyline. “We start tomorrow at 8:00 AM sharp. Don’t be late.”

Clara glared at his broad back, realizing that working alongside Ethan Vance was going to test every ounce of her patience. But she wasn’t someone

to back down from a challenge.