Page 3 of Grumpy Orc CEO

I finish packing the last document into my briefcase, feeling the familiar weight settle into my hand. My phone rings, breaking the momentary silence. Elara’s name flashes on the screen.

Before, I would give in, listen to her emotional calls on my way to work just to try to make her happy. But those days are long gone, replaced by unresolved arguments and lingering bitterness. Bitterness at me.

I decline the call, forcing myself to focus on the task at hand.

The documents in my briefcase remind me of my responsibilities—the upcoming merger, the financial health of Thraknar Financial Group. My company needs me to be at my best, and that's exactly what they'll get.

I straighten my suit jacket, using the familiar motions to ground myself. Elara’s call is just another distraction I can’t afford. I’ve worked too hard to let her drama continue to interfere with my professional life.

As I reach the door, I pause for a moment, taking in the opulence around me. The marble floors, the floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Eldrith Financial District. I lock the door behind me, hearing the decisive click behind me.

Walking down the hallway, my footsteps sound louder than usual. Anticipation builds within me—anticipation for the meeting, for what’s at stake. Yet there’s also a detachment that clings to me like a shadow. It’s as if I’m watching myself from a distance, going through the motions.

I reach the elevator and press the button, waiting as it ascends to my floor.

As the elevator descends, I mentally review my plans for the day. Meetings, negotiations, decisions—each one crucial to Thraknar Financial Group’s future. The weight of responsibility sits heavy on my shoulders, but it’s a weight I’ve grown accustomed to carrying.

The elevator dings softly as it reaches the ground floor. The doors slide open, and I step out into the lobby, greeted by polished marble and tasteful decor. A few staff members nod respectfully as I pass by them; their acknowledgment is a subtle reminder of my position and its accompanying expectations.

Standing by my car, I gaze out at the city skyline. The tall buildings shimmer under the morning sun, each one a testament to ambition and success. But today, they seem like cold, impersonal sentinels watching over my life. The air is crisp, the kind that wakes you up but also makes you think too much.

The weight of the last few months weighs on my mind. Elara said she could handle my goals, but as my progression became more demanding, she decided she wanted more, more than what I could give her. She became spiteful, and selfish. The more work I had to do, the more demanding she was. Always calling and interrupting my workday with drama. The last meeting she called the company crying about an emergency, and when I got home, my heart racing in my chest, there never was an emergency.

It was just a damn ploy to get my attention.

I shift my gaze to the car’s glossy surface, seeing my reflection—sharp suit, stern expression, amber eyes that betray nothing. The successful orc CEO of Thraknar Financial Group.

I recall the early days of my company. The late nights, the endless meetings, the thrill of sealing deals—it was all-consuming and exhilarating. I've sacrificed a lot to get to where I am, and I'm starting to feel that despite the demands, that maybe there’s room for someone, a partner to do life with. Maybe with the right person I could have both?

A gust of wind sweeps through the street, pulling me back to reality. My phone buzzes again—a meeting reminder this time—and I sigh. Duty calls.

I open the car door but hesitate before getting in. The polished leather seats and the scent of a new car remind me of another life—one where personal fulfillment wasn’t sacrificed on the altar of professional success.

It’s not that I can't, it’s just that I haven’t found the person that I want to do it for. I thought it was Elara, but she made me throw myself further into work to avoid conflict. When I confronted her, saying enough was enough, she became hysterical. So, I threw myself further into work.

With one last glance at the skyline, I climb into the car and close the door behind me. As I drive away from my building towards the airport, I let go of those thoughts, burying them deep where they belong.

There hasn't been room for distraction in my world—at least not today when there’s so much at stake. But, after having a glimpse of what life could be, for the right person... I push the thought away, focusing on the trip ahead.

I navigate through the morning traffic, my hands gripping the steering wheel as my mind races. The city hums with life around me, but inside this car, it’s just me and my thoughts.

The skyscrapers blur past, each one a reminder of the empire I’ve built. Thraknar Financial Group stands tall in the Eldrith Financial District, a testament to years of hard work and relentless ambition. Yet today, that success feels hollow.

I glance at the passenger seat where my briefcase sits, filled with documents that will shape the future of my company.

I reach the airport and park in the executive lot. Stepping out of the car, I take a deep breath, feeling the crisp morning air fill my lungs. It’s time for a change.

Inside the terminal, I move through security with practiced ease. The familiar routine offers little comfort today. As I board the plane, my mind drifts to thoughts of a more meaningful life. What would it look like? Could I find fulfillment beyond the walls of Thraknar Financial Group?

I allow myself a moment to let my thoughts drift. This emotional back and forth, the frustrations with Elara, it’s become draining. I wanted a partner, not someone who couldn’t handle five minutes by herself.

I've spent so damn long putting everything in my life before me. Elara, the wellbeing of the company. And if I’m being honest, I want something meaningful. Someone to come home to that understands the demands and pressure I'm under, someone who understands the sacrifices I make. Someone independent, and driven, just like me, someone who gets it.

When I make it to the gate I see that the status of my flight is delayed. Because of course it’s delayed. With a grumbling sigh I realize I have two options. Wallow in self pity like a bitch, or sulk in the bar.

I can only get whiskey from one place in this airport, so I already know where I’ll be heading towards.

CHAPTER 3

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