Never Underestimate Jamie Luther

3: Trust over all

Gleaming in the sunlight, the twin Biiite skyscrapers rose side-by-side, modern monuments of steel and glass. One pulsed with the creative energy of app developers, the other orchestrated the city's most lavish events.

The glass doors of Biiite App and Game Development Company whispered open, revealing a scene Jamie never tired of: a sleek, modern lobby humming with controlled chaos. The air thrummed with the click-clack of keyboards, snippets of excited chatter about the latest game engine, and the low hum of the espresso machine. Jamie Luther, CEO and founder, paused for a moment, the weight of his tailored suit a familiar comfort against his shoulders. He always felt a surge of pride watching his employees, a mixed bag of hoodies, ripped jeans, and the occasional power suit, all united by a shared passion for innovation.

Today was a pressure cooker. The quarterly board meeting loomed, a ritual of performance reviews and future projections. But Jamie's mind was more occupied with the parade of potential collaborators and investors vying for a piece of Biiite's pie. He knew the company's trajectory depended on forging the right alliances, but something felt different today, a subtle unease he couldn't quite shake.

He entered the conference room, a spacious area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the heart of the city. The room was already filled with people, a mix of familiar faces and eager newcomers. He greeted everyone with a warm smile, his charisma instantly putting them at ease.

"Alright, everyone, let's get started," he said, taking his seat at the head of the table. "First, I want to thank you all for your continued support and investment in Biiite. We've had a fantastic year, and I'm confident that we're on track for even greater success."

He launched into a presentation, showcasing the company's latest achievements and outlining his vision for the future. He spoke with passion and conviction, his words painting a vivid picture of Biiite's potential.

After the presentation, it was time to meet with the potential collaborators. The first group was from a tech company called NovaTech, led by a man named Fred Blackwood.

Fred swaggered into the room, his confidence bordering on a tinge of disgusting arrogance. Even when he didnt say much, he was loud, exuded an air of entitlement that immediately rubbed Jamie the wrong way.

"Jamie Luther," Fred said, extending a hand with a knowing smirk. "Pleasure to finally meet you."

Jamie shook his hand, his grip firm but polite. "The pleasure's all mine, Fred. I've heard good things about NovaTech."

No, he didn't. It was just for business.

"Good things?" Fred chuckled. "We're the best in the business. We're revolutionizing the tech world."

Jamie raised an eyebrow, unimpressed by Fred's boastfulness. "That's quite a claim. I'm eager to see what you have to offer."

Fred launched into his pitch, showcasing NovaTech's latest innovations. He spoke with a condescending tone, as if he were addressing a group of children. At some points, he didn't even try to answer or explain properly as he claimed they were good enough to understand.

"We're not just building apps, Luther," he said, his voice dripping with arrogance. "We're building the future. And we're willing to let you be a part of it, obviously for a price."

Jamie bristled at Fred's tone. He didn't appreciate being talked down to, especially in his own office. Not by an obviously immature human.

"We're always open to new collaborations," Jamie said, his voice carefully controlled. "But we're looking for partners who reasonably and and innovationly share our vision and values. We're not interested in arrogance or empty promises."

Fred's smirk slowly faded. "Are you questioning my integrity, Luther?"

"I'm simply stating my expectations," Jamie replied, his gaze unwavering.

The tension in the room was audible. The other members of the meeting shifted uncomfortably in their seats. Luther was right and even if he wasn't, no one would dare question him.

"Look, Luther," Fred said, his voice hardening. "Let's cut the crap. I know you need us. Biiite is good, but NovaTech is on a different level. We can take you to the top."

"I appreciate the offer, Fred," Jamie said, standing up. "But I think we're done here. I don't see a collaboration working out between our companies."

Fred's face flushed with anger. He chuckled and wiped his palm across his face "You're making a mistake, Luther. A big mistake. You'll regret this."

"I doubt it," Jamie said, his voice cold. "Good day, Fred."

Fred stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind him. The remaining members of the meeting exchanged nervous glances.

"Well, that was... interesting," said one of the investors, breaking the silence.

Jamie sighed, rubbing his temples. "Sorry about that, everyone. I don't tolerate arrogance or disrespect. I'd rather pass on a deal than compromise my values."

He dismissed the meeting, feeling a surge of frustration. He hated dealing with people like Fred Blackwood, people who thought they were better than everyone else.

As he walked out of the conference room, he thought about Fred's ignorance. For someone like Jamie who had been announced the heir to his family old money interior design companies, he also founded and own *Biiite App* and game development company, Biiite Luxury Eco-Tourism Company.

What does a single new company like Nova mean to him.

*****************

After the meeting, Jamie walked out of the Biiite building, the failed meeting with Fred Blackwood still simmering in his mind. He decided to surprise Francesca, hoping to salvage the day with a spontaneous lunch date. He knew she wouldnt be busy with her own company. She rarely get clients unless they are from Jamie.

As he rounded the corner, he stopped dead in his tracks. Across the street, in front of a trendy cafe, he saw Francesca. She was laughing, her face radiant, her hand resting on the arm of a man. A man who looked awfully familiar.

It was Fred Blackwood.

Jamie watched, his stomach twisting into a knot, as Francesca threw her arms around Fred in a warm embrace. Fred reciprocated, his hand lingering on her back a little too long.

He crossed the street, his footsteps heavy, his heart pounding in his chest. As he approached, Francesca pulled away from Fred, her eyes widening in surprise.

"Jamie!" she exclaimed, her voice a little too high-pitched. "What are you doing here?"

"I wanted to surprise you," he said, his voice carefully neutral. "It's not the 20th time I am doing this but I see you're already... occupied."

Francesca blushed, glancing nervously at Fred. "Jamie, this is Fred Blackwood. Fred, this is my husband, Jamie Luther."

Fred extended a hand, a smug grin on his face. "Pleasure to meet you, Jamie. Francesca and I go way back."

They had a meeting less than an hour ago!

"We do," Francesca chimed in, her voice a little too eager. "Fred and I are old friends. We went to high school together. We practically grew up together"

Fred laughed as he pulled Francesca for a quick side huge "First love, actually," he added, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "We were inseparable back then. Like soul mates."

Jamie's jaw tightened. He didn't like the way Fred was looking at Francesca, the way he was emphasizing their past. He didn't like the way Francesca was blushing, the way she seemed flustered by Fred's presence.

"Well, it's nice to meet you again, Fred," Jamie said, forcing a smile. "But you can get going I want to have a moment with my wife."

He wasn't trying to seem insecure or controlling. He just needed to see his wife he came for but looking at her expression, she rather stay.

"Actually, Jamie," Francesca said, her voice hesitant. "I have an important deal to run. I won't be able to make it home for dinner."

Jamie hesitated, his gaze searching her face. "Are you sure? I was hoping we could spend some time together."

"I'm really sorry, Honey," she said, her eyes pleading. "But this is really important. I might make it up later."

Fred stepped closer to Francesca, placing a possessive hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, Jamie. I'll keep her safe. We're just catching up on old times." He pulled her into a brief hug, kissing her cheek. Francesca couldn't help but giggled before immediately playfully shushing Fred.

Jamie watched, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He wanted to pull Francesca away, to tell Fred to back off. But he forced himself to remain calm, to trust his wife. He badly wanted to but he would respect her over everything.

He leaned in and kissed Francesca on the forehead. "Be careful," he said, his voice low. "And call me later."

"Okay," she promised, her eyes avoiding his.

"Maybe Kofi can go with you," Jamie offered, referring to their driver and bodyguard.

Francesca recoiled, her face twisting in a mask of disgust. "Do you not trust me, Jamie?" she spat, the words laced with venom. Her eyes narrowed, a flicker of panic betraying her carefully constructed facade. "Do you think I can't handle myself?"

Jamie sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Of course I trust you, dear. I just want you to be safe."

He forced a smile, trying to mask his unease. "Alright, I'll see you later."

He turned and walked away, his footsteps heavy, his mind racing. He didn't like this. He didn't like Fred Blackwood. And he definitely didn't like the way Francesca was acting.

As he drove away, he glanced in his rearview mirror. He saw Francesca and Fred laughing, their heads close together. Almost like they would kiss.

He still trust his wife.