Franklin didn't understand what Drake thought wanting someone meant.
To men like Drake, wanting was possession. Control. A temporary obsession fueled by ego and challenge. But to Franklin, wanting was something else entirely, quiet, rooted, and terrifying in its permanence.
Cassie wasn't just someone he desired.
She mattered.
And not in a way that could be explained with attraction alone. Not even with affection.
Cassie mattered because of Tristan. If keeping her meant giving everything, Franklin wouldn't hesitate.
Money was replaceable. Power was renewable. Even pride could be sacrificed.
"We're done here, Drake," Franklin said, his voice dangerously calm. "Pull your investment, or don't. But if you cross me again, watch another one of your penthouses here in Manhat
