HUNGER

Elias adjusted his cufflinks as he stood outside Adrian Fields’ penthouse door. They were a gift from his father—silver enameled apple, polished to a shine. His father’s voice echoed in his mind: “Wear these when you need to remind yourself—take the bite.”

He hadn’t understood the words at the time, but tonight, they struck a chord. His fingers lingered on the cufflinks, the weight of their meaning heavy. This was no ordinary meeting. Adrian wasn’t just a potential investor; he was the gatekeeper to everything Elias had worked for.

The door swung open, and Adrian’s assistant greeted him briskly, ushering him inside. The room radiated power—muted tones, sleek lines, and the hum of low voices from a circle of high-profile guests gathered at a poker table.

Adrian looked up and smiled. “Elias. Unexpected.”

Elias forced a grin, stepping forward. “Sometimes you have to be.”

Adrian’s sharp eyes flicked to the cufflinks, a flicker of recognition in his gaze. He gestured for Elias to join him at the table.

“Interesting choice,” Adrian said, his tone almost playful as Elias sat.

Elias looked down at the apple cufflinks, his jaw tightening. “A reminder that hesitation never won wars.”

Adrian’s smile faltered, just for a second. The room seemed to hold its breath.

“Let’s see if your conviction matches your style,” Adrian said, sliding a deck of cards across the table.

At that moment, Elias knew there was no turning back. The hunger that had driven him for so long—the ambition, the desire—had crystallized. The apple wasn’t just a symbol. It was a challenge. One he wouldn’t walk away from.