"To Crawford Enterprises' newest golden boy!"The champagne glasses clinked as Michael Crawford's team surrounded him, their smiles gleaming in the dimly lit VIP lounge. The Meridian contract had finally been secured, a deal worth eight figures that would transform their division from a struggling department to the company's crown jewel."Speech! Speech!" Jason called out, his slick hair reflecting the ambient lighting as he raised his glass higher.Michael rose, adjusting his tie. At thirty-two, he had the earnest look of someone still surprised by his own success—someone who couldn't quite believe his good fortune."I couldn't have done this without all of you," Michael said, his voice carrying across the private bar. "Jason, your financial projections were what sealed the deal." He nodded toward his CFO, who raised his glass with a wink. "Vanessa, that presentation you put together? Absolute perfection." The marketing director smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "And E

"You're bringing Jason onto your team?" Eric's voice carried across the restaurant patio where they sat for lunch the next day. "I was certain you'd want your own people."Michael took a sip of water, watching his brother's poorly disguised relief. "Why wouldn't I? He's one of our top financial analysts.""I just thought—" Eric's fork hovered midair. "You two have never been particularly close.""Business isn't about friendship," Michael leaned forward, maintaining eye contact. "It's about utilizing the best talents available."Eric set down his fork, his shoulders relaxing visibly. "Well, I'm glad you see his value. He's been loyal to Crawford Enterprises for years.""Loyal to Crawford Enterprises," Michael smiled, "or loyal to specific Crawfords?"Eric's eyebrows rose. "What's that supposed to mean?"Michael waved his hand dismissively. "Just thinking out loud. Loyalty goes both ways. I intend to reward mine generously." He reached for the wine bottle. "Speaking of loyalty, I've ask

The Crawford Enterprises executive boardroom gleamed with polished mahogany and brass fixtures. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the city skyline—a constant reminder of the company's dominance in shaping the urban landscape. Michael sat at the middle of the long table, watching as his assembled team filed in for the morning meeting."The same faces that gathered for my funeral," he thought, nodding greetings as they took their seats. "Smiling just as sincerely then as they are now."Jason arrived last, sliding into a seat directly across from Michael. "Traffic was murder," he explained, straightening his tie. "Everyone's headed to the Baxter property opening.""One of our biggest developments this year," added Vanessa, tapping her tablet to life. "Twenty-six floors of prime commercial real estate, already 80% leased."Michael leaned forward, elbows on the table. "Let's get started. I've asked each of you to prepare initial proposals for our division's focus. Who wa

Michael cracked his knuckles, staring intently at the four company profiles displayed on his monitor. The blue light illuminated his face in the dimly lit apartment as midnight approached."These four," he thought, tapping the screen. "These are the golden tickets that no one else can see yet."He'd chosen his targets carefully from his future knowledge:NeuraTech: A small medical device company that would announce a breakthrough stimulation device in the next two hours, sending their stock soaring.QuantumShield: A cybersecurity firm about to land a massive government contract.ThenGreenHorizon and "In my previous life, I watched these four companies explode while sitting on the sidelines," Michael mused. "Not this time."He opened his trading platform and began dividing his capital. His fingers paused over the keyboard as he prepared to place the first order."This feels almost like cheating," he thought with a smile. "But then again, I've earned this advantage the hard way."The

Michael arrived at his father's mansion as dusk settled across the manicured grounds. Eric's Aston Martin was already parked near the entrance."So he's already here," Michael muttered, checking his watch. The emergency call had come less than thirty minutes ago.Henderson opened the door before Michael could knock. "Good evening, Mr. Michael. Your father and brother are waiting in the study.""Thank you. How long has Eric been here?""Approximately forty-five minutes, sir," Henderson replied, his expression neutral.Michael approached the study, hearing raised voices through the partially open door."—cannot believe you would be so careless with company funds!" Richard's voice carried, unusually sharp."Father, I've explained—" Eric began."Save it," Richard cut him off. "Michael's here."Michael entered to find his father standing behind his desk, Eric seated opposite with visible tension in his posture."You wanted to see me, Father?"Richard nodded grimly. "Sit down. We have a ser