Chapter 197

LUCAS POV I was just about to round up the board meeting when my phone vibrated against the polished surface of the conference table. Adrian. I didn’t hesitate. “Gentlemen,” I said, rising from my seat, “that’ll be all for today. We’ll continue this discussion next week.” Chairs scraped softly against the floor as the board members stood, murmuring polite goodbyes as they walked out of the conference room. The door closed behind them, leaving the space quiet again. I answered the call. “Adrian. It’s been a while.” “Indeed, my friend,” he replied warmly. “How’s business?” I glanced at the glass wall overlooking the city, the skyline reflecting years of work finally paying off. “We’re closing deals faster than we can sign them. Expansion is ahead of schedule, investors are back and happy now that everything is back to normal, and revenue’s climbing higher.” I smiled. “Honestly, it’s the kind of momentum every CEO prays for.” He chuckled. “That’s good to hear. But then again, you are the