Page 12 of Claws and Controllers

“You’re impossible,” Ellie muttered, but she couldn’t hide her smile. “Look, even if I was interested - which I’m not - it’s not that simple. We’re competitors. Our companies are rivals. And let’s not forget, Ashford Entertainment is the one who bought my stolen game.”

Noa’s expression sobered. “I know, sweetie. But have you ever considered that maybe Zy didn’t know the full story? Big companies buy games all the time. He might not have had any idea about the drama behind it.”

Ellie paused, considering this. It was true, she’d never actually spoken to anyone at Ashford Entertainment about the situation. She’d been too hurt and angry to even consider reaching out. But the way Zy had looked at her during the showcase, the genuine admiration in his eyes when he praised Infinite Odyssey... could she have misjudged him?

“Maybe,” she conceded reluctantly. “But it doesn’t change the fact that we’re still competitors. Getting involved with Zy would not be smart at all. Plus, it would be beyond complicated…if I were interested, which I’m not.”

Noa shrugged. “The best things in life are usually complicated. But, hey, I’m not pushing. Just... don’t close yourself off to the possibility, okay? You deserve some happiness, Ellie. And if that happiness comes in a big, sexy package with killer gaming skills, tons of muscles, and the face of a god, well, who am I to argue?”

Ellie laughed. “Can we please focus on the fact that Infinite Odyssey just got an amazing showcase in front of the whole industry?”

“Now that,” Noa said with a grin, “is something I can definitely celebrate. Come on, superstar. You’ve got fans waiting.”

As they turned back to the busy booth, Ellie’s mind drifted once more to Zy. The warmth of his smile, the intensity in his eyes, the way he’d made her laugh even as they competed... it was a dangerous train of thought, but one she couldn’t seem to derail.

For the rest of the afternoon, Ellie threw herself into the convention with renewed energy. She demonstrated Infinite Odyssey to eager fans, answered questions from industry insiders, and even gave a few interviews to gaming journalists. But through it all, a part of her remained hyper-aware, constantly scanning the crowd for a glimpse of Zy.

It wasn’t until late in the day as the convention was winding down, that she spotted him again. He was across the hall, deep in conversation with a group of what looked like investors. Even from a distance, his presence commanded attention. Ellie found herself admiring the confident set of his shoulders, the graceful way he gestured as he spoke.

As if sensing her gaze, Zy looked up, his eyes meeting hers across the crowded convention floor. For a moment, the bustle of the convention seemed to fade away. Zy’s lips curved into a warm smile, and he gave her a small nod of acknowledgment. Ellie felt her heart skip a beat.

“Earth to Ellie,” Noa’s voice broke through her reverie. “You okay there? You looked like you were a million miles away.”

Ellie blinked, tearing her gaze away from Zy. “Yeah, sorry. Just... thinking about some potential updates for the game.”

Noa followed her line of sight, a knowing smirk spreading across her face when she spotted Zy. “Uh-huh. ‘Updates.’ Is that what the kids are calling it these days?”

“Oh, shut up,” Ellie grumbled, but there was no heat in her words. “Come on, let’s start packing up. I’m exhausted.”

As they began dismantling their booth, Ellie’s mind whirled with the events of the day. The showcase had been a resoundingsuccess with Infinite Odyssey generating more buzz than she’d dared to hope for. But it was her unexpected encounter with Zy that kept replaying in her mind.

She’d come to this convention seeing Ashford Entertainment as the enemy, a faceless corporation that had profited from her pain. But now... now, she wasn’t so sure. Zy had been nothing but respectful, even admiring, of her work. He’d challenged her, yes, but in a way that had pushed her to be better, to showcase the true potential of her game.

As the last of their equipment was packed away, Ellie made a decision. She couldn’t ignore the connection she’d felt with Zy or the spark of something that could be... more. But she also couldn’t forget the history between their companies and the hurt that still lingered from her past betrayal.

“Noa,” she said, turning to her friend. “I think... I think I need to talk to Zy. Properly. Clear the air about some things.”

Noa’s eyes widened in surprise, then softened with understanding. “I think that’s a great idea, hon. Do you want me to come with you?”

Ellie shook her head. “No, this is something I need to do on my own. But... thanks. For everything.”

Noa pulled her into a quick hug. “Anytime, superstar. Now go get your man. Or... clear the air. Or whatever it is you’re planning to do.”

FIVE

Zy strode through the bustling convention hall, his mind churning with conflicting thoughts. The exhilaration of the showcase still thrummed through his veins, but it was overshadowed by a growing unease. He navigated the crowded aisles with practiced ease, his tall frame and commanding presence causing people to unconsciously part before him.

As he approached the Ashford Entertainment booth, Zy’s golden-flecked eyes scanned the area, seeking out one person in particular. Adonis stood near the back, his imposing figure a stark contrast to the sleek, futuristic design of their display. Their gazes met, and Zy gave a subtle nod. It was time to talk.

“Adonis,” Zy said quietly as he reached his friend and head of security. “We need to discuss something. Privately.”

Adonis’s brows rose slightly, but he nodded without hesitation. “Of course. The VIP room?”

Zy agreed, and they made their way to a secluded area reserved for high-level meetings. As soon as the door closed behind them, Zy’s carefully maintained facade cracked. He ran a hand through his light brown hair, mussing the usually impeccable style.

“We might have a problem,” Zy began, pacing the length of the small room. “During the showcase with Ellie Madden, I noticed something... concerning about her game.”

Adonis leaned against the wall, his arms crossed. “What kind of concerning?”

---