Page 2 of Blazing Joysticks

The women hung on Gerri’s every word, their faces a mix of amusement and awe. Gerri’s unique perspective and unconventional methods were a breath of fresh air in the often-frustrating world of matchmaking.

As the meeting drew to a close, Gerri reflected on the wheels she had set in motion. Cat and Keir’s journey was just beginning, and she couldn’t wait to see how their story would unfold. With a satisfied smile, Gerri sat back to answer more questions, knowing that the next chapter was about to begin.

“Ladies, this is just the beginning,” she said, her voice filled with excitement. “Mark my words, Cat and Keir’s love story will be one for the ages. They just don’t know it yet.”

ONE

Keir Sharpe stood at the expansive window of his penthouse office, gazing out at the New York City skyline. The early morning sun glinted off the glass and steel structures, mirroring the anticipation that thrummed through his veins. Today marked the culmination of years of work - the unveiling of Guardian AI at the biggest gaming expo of the year.

He turned back to his desk, picking up the sleek VR headset. Its matte black surface gleamed under his touch as he made a few final adjustments to the settings. Guardian AI represented the pinnacle of virtual reality technology, integrating advanced artificial intelligence with immersive gameplay. It was more than just a game; it was a revolution in user safety and experience.

Keir’s fingers danced over the headset’s controls, fine-tuning the responsiveness. As a dragon shifter, he’d infused the AI with the protective instincts of his kind, creating a system that not only enhanced gameplay but also safeguarded users in ways never before possible.

The intercom on his desk buzzed. “Mr. Sharpe, Beck Driscoll is on line one for you.”

“Thank you,” Keir replied, setting down the headset and picking up the phone. “Beck, what’s the status on our lead engineer? Is everything set for the demonstration?”

There was a moment of hesitation on the other end of the line. “Keir, I’ve got some bad news. I haven’t seen him this morning. He’s not responding to my messages.”

Keir’s jaw clenched, a low growl rumbling in his chest. “What do you mean you haven’t seen him? The expo starts in two hours.”

“I know, Keir. I’ve been trying to reach him since dawn. His office is empty, and his team hasn’t heard from him either.”

Keir pinched the bridge of his nose, tamping down the surge of frustration. “Keep trying. I want an update in fifteen minutes whether you’ve found him or not.”

“I’ll try to track him down through his phone. I don’t know what’s going on with him, but I’ll find him, Keir.”

He hung up, his mind already racing through contingencies. The lead engineer’s absence was more than just an inconvenience; it was a potential disaster. The man held critical knowledge about Guardian AI’s inner workings, knowledge that was supposed to be showcased today.

Before Keir could dive deeper into his concerns, the office door burst open. Amelia, his younger sister, swept in like a whirlwind of energy and designer perfume.

“Surprise, big brother!” she exclaimed, her green eyes sparkling. “Thought you could use some moral support for your big day.”

Despite his worries, a smile tugging at his lips. Amelia had always had that effect on him, her infectious enthusiasm a perfect counterbalance to his more reserved nature.

“Amelia,” he said, embracing her briefly. “I didn’t expect to see you until the family dinner tonight.”

She waved a hand dismissively. “And miss the chance to see you wow the masses with your latest tech marvel? Not a chance. Besides, someone needs to make sure you don’t forget to eat or, heaven forbid, crack a smile during all those interviews.”

Keir chuckled, grateful for her presence. “Well, I’m glad you’re here. We might have a situation brewing.”

Amelia’s eyebrow arched. “Oh? Do tell. Is it juicy corporate drama? A rival company trying to steal your thunder?”

“If only it were that simple,” Keir sighed, running a hand through his blonde hair. “Our lead engineer seems to have gone AWOL on the most important day of the year.”

Amelia’s playful expression sobered. “That doesn’t sound like the Keir Sharpe way of doing things. What are you going to do about it?”

Keir’s eyes narrowed, a determined glint replacing the earlier worry. “What I always do with incompetence and potential betrayal. Deal with it swiftly and decisively.”

“Ooh, I know that look,” Amelia said, a mix of excitement and sympathy in her voice. “Someone’s about to get fired, aren’t they?”

“Let’s not jump to conclusions,” Keir replied, though his tone suggested he’d already made up his mind. “But if he doesn’t show up with a damn good explanation, then yes, he’ll be looking for a new job by lunchtime.”

Amelia clapped her hands together. “Well then, shall we head to the expo? I, for one, can’t wait to see how this all unfolds.”

Keir nodded, grabbing his jacket and the VR headset. As they made their way to the elevator, he found himself grateful for Amelia’s presence. Her energy and optimism were exactly what he needed to face the challenges ahead.

In the sleek company car, as they navigated through the bustling New York traffic, Keir’s mind wandered back to the potential crisis at hand. “I don’t tolerate liars or traitors in my company, Amelia. You know that.”

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