A tit for tat battle of egos was taking place in the meeting suite at the top floor of a prestigious corporation.
“…as evident in Clause 3 of the agreement, our client is not prepared to shoulder the risk if things go awry” She almost grinned, not that it went past him.
“I was under the impression indemnity was something your client was willing to offer considering the value our clients brings” he challenged, shifting some papers within his pile.
“Maybe you got the wrong impression. The contract is clear as drafted.”
The tension between the two experts took away from the amicable nature of negotiation. It’s only when their support colleagues stepped in to call a recess that there was room to breathe. It was to be expected. They were the top corporate lawyers. Trailblazers at their respective firms. Rival law schools, now at rival shops, competing for victories that cannot be shared. Even as the meeting room emptied, venomous flares were exchanged.
This was regular with them. However, news from the partners that the two heavyweight firms would be merging was something unexpected. Now, just a year later, the two rivals found themselves in the same office fighting for a different type of win…partnership and a corner office. The partnership wasn’t blind to it though.
“The merger has all but succeeded, and it’s important that the firm culture emphasises collaboration” the air was thick in the top floor room. “In light of this, you’ll be be working together on the $1.5t acquisition of Meta”. The biggest deal around.
Forced to share office space and now a case, they would be forced to find a way to work together. The tension of competition, mixed with the stress of shifting deadlines and all nighters is a recipe for a unique type of explosion.
Yes, I’m coming out with the big hitters…Who doesn’t like enemies to lovers prompts after all. I’ve been in a medieval/fantasy phase for a hot while and now I’m keen to live out the corporate modern setting in the scene I outlined.
The idea is self explanatory. There’s different directions we can take it. Do come with your own ideas about where to take things and even changing up some of the backdrop. I envisioned the two getting tangled up late at night to relieve stress. They’d regret this and try to act like it didn’t happen. Naturally feeling can only be bottled up for so long. Later on I imagine the chance to write about their dealings at a resort, with the firm celebrating promotions and… you get the picture.
Don’t jump right in. I want to discuss the direction of the story and do all the usual housekeeping. Come with your ideas, it’s always a treat to write with creative people.