Episode 4. The Visionary

Austin followed Marcus into the conference room, where Ethan stood, gazing out the window.

"Ah, Austin ," Ethan said, turning to face him.

"Sir," Austin replied, extending his hand.

Ethan shook it firmly. "Please, sit."

As Austin took his seat, he accidentally knocked over his chair, catching it just in time.

Ethan's expression remained neutral, but his eyes flickered with amusement.

"Sorry, sir," Austin muttered, flushing.

Ethan gestured to the presentation screen. "Let's begin. I've reviewed your portfolio. Impressive work."

Austin beamed, fidgeting with excitement.

"As I see it, our collaboration will—"

Austin 's phone suddenly blared his favorite song, "I'm a Slave 4 U." He frantically silenced it.

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Everything okay?"

Austin 's face turned bright red. "Yeah, sorry. Wrong timing."

Ethan's lips twitched, but he maintained his stoic demeanor.

"Moving on... I envision a fusion of art and technology. Your style will bring a unique perspective."

Austin 's voice trembled slightly as he asked, "But, sir, what exactly is the project about?"

Ethan's piercing gaze settled on Austin , his expression unreadable.

"Ah, curiosity gets the better of you, Mr. Reed," Ethan said, a hint of amusement dancing in his voice.

Austin 's heart skipped a beat as Ethan leaned forward, his eyes locking onto Austin 's.

"Echoes in Time," Ethan began, his voice low and mysterious, "is an immersive art installation that delves into the human experience. It's about capturing the essence of our existence, the whispers of our past, and the uncertainty of our future."

Austin 's eyes widened as Ethan's words painted vivid images in his mind.

"But, sir, what do you plan to—"

Ethan's raised hand silenced Austin , his eyes glinting with intensity.

"Let me show you," Ethan said, standing up.

With fluid movements, Ethan strode to a concealed wall, revealing a hidden screen. A single click, and the room plunged into darkness.

Suddenly, a mesmerizing visual narrative unfolded before Austin 's eyes: swirling colors, ethereal landscapes, and haunting silhouettes.

Austin 's breath caught in his throat.

"Wow," Austin whispered, entranced.

Ethan's voice whispered in his ear, "This is just the beginning, Austin . Together, we'll create something breathtaking."

Austin 's heart pounded, his senses overwhelmed.

"What do you think, Austin ?" Ethan asked, his warm breath sending shivers down Austin 's spine.

Austin turned, meeting Ethan's piercing gaze.

"I'm in, sir," Austin replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

Ethan's smile was enigmatic.

"Excellent," Ethan said. "Let's create something unforgettable."

As the lights flickered back on, Austin felt like he'd been transported to another world. Ethan's intensity was intoxicating.

Rachel, Ethan's secretary, stood at the door, her expression unreadable. "Sir, shall I prepare the contracts?"

Ethan nodded. "Yes, Rachel. Austin , you'll receive the details shortly."

Austin , still reeling from the presentation. "Thank you, sir. I won't disappoint."

Ethan's eyes locked onto Austin 's. "I know you won't."

As Austin left the conference room, Rachel fell into step beside him.

"Austin , may I have a word?" she asked, her voice low.

"Of course," Austin replied.

Rachel glanced around before leaning in. "Be careful around Ethan. He's... demanding."

Austin Confused. "What do you mean?"

Rachel's expression turned enigmatic. "You'll see."

" At least tell me" Austin asked

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