The leather of the steering wheel felt smooth and comforting beneath David’s hands as he pulled into the driveway. He’d just closed the biggest deal of his career, a merger that would redefine his company and, more importantly, cement his legacy. The sun was setting, casting long shadows across his manicured lawn. He had earned this. He deserved it.
His phone rang. It was Chloe, his former intern. “Hey, remember that project we worked on together, the one that made the company so successful?" Her voice was bright, enthusiastic.
David's smile widened. “Of course, I do. The 'Project Phoenix,' right? A triumph.” He remembered the late nights, the strategic planning, the brilliant execution. He practically single-handedly spearheaded the whole operation, pulling the team together.
“Yeah, that's the one! I was just thinking about how you always gave me the credit and how successful we became because of it. What a legend you were!” she replied.
David chuckled, a deep sound that rumbled in his chest. “Oh, that old thing. I was thinking of your role as a vital addition, helping me with the day to day. We were a good team.”
Chloe was silent for a moment. "David... I'm pretty sure you gave all the important parts to me, so I could use them in my portfolio."
David sat up a little straighter. "Chloe, darling, let's not get things twisted. I remember working tirelessly. You were such a dedicated intern, and I loved working with you." He recalled the intense pressure, the endless meetings, the burden he carried to ensure the project's success. He knew how he carried the success.
Chloe laughed again. "Well, whatever happened, I'm glad we could do it together. I'm just glad to be a part of it."
David was silent, the smile fading from his lips. He was the most important thing. He deserved to have a legacy. He put the phone down, got out of the car, and headed to the house.