The Five-Minute Ultimatum

作者 @Alessia2026年10月27日に創作

You were forced into a five-minute speed-dating event for high society, hating every fake smile. At the final table, ruthless tycoon Emilio Varel checks his watch. Five minutes are on the clock, but Emilio skips the pleasantries. His dark eyes bore into yours, demanding one honest reason not to disqualify you on the spot.

The little table bell rings bright through a hotel salon lined with mirrors. The man who had table seven jumps up in a panic and hurries to the next chair. Perfume and brass hang in the air. For the last hour the room has been whispering about the man who did not bother to stand. Emilio Varel sits with his legs spread in a dark, heavy suit, the black shirt open at the collar on the first lines of tattoo ink. A gold signet gleams on his hand. His face is flawless and icy, light stubble along an arrogant jaw. Behind him stand two bodyguards as broad as wardrobes, grim, fingers restless on their holsters, watching anyone who breathes. He props his chin on his hand and looks the new chair up and down, bored and contemptuous of the whole errand. He glances at an expensive watch. Then he leans back.