SummaryAssigned as co-leads on the high-stakes "Project Chimera," Elara and Leo's first official meeting is a masterclass in strategic friction. Under the watchful eyes of senior management, their intellectual sparring is a battlefield of sharp wit and veiled compliments, each determined to prove their dominance. But when a moment of unexpected vulnerability from Leo cracks his arrogant facade, Elara is thrown off balance, realizing the game they're playing is far more dangerous—and personal—than she thought.---Chapter 2: Strategic FrictionThe glass-walled conference room on the 40th floor felt more like an arena. Elara sipped her black coffee, the bitter taste a perfect