Legacy Unraveled (Kendall Roy X Reader)

Chapter Five

Inside the plush confines of the WayStar private jet, Roman was slouched across a leather seat, AirPods plugged in, occasionally making a face at whatever he was watching on his tablet. Shiv, clad in a business-casual outfit, was skimming through a report, while Tom sat beside her, trying to look as relaxed as possible but failing.

Kendall, clearly restless, paced the aisle. "You know, this is all just a flashy dog and pony show, right? Matsson's trying to show us he's the fucking future and we're the rotting past."

Shiv looked up from her report. "Oh, come on, Ken. Can't you just enjoy the complimentary champagne and anticipate the icy cold of Norway?"

Kendall smirked, "Is that a commentary on Norway or Matsson's soul?"

Roman pulled out an earbud, overhearing the last bit. "Look, if Lukas is the iceberg, we just need to make sure our Titanic doesn't hit it."

Tom interjected, trying to infuse some levity, "Speaking of icebergs, do you think we'll see polar bears? I've always wanted to see one up close."

"Wrong fucking pole, Tom," Roman quipped with a smirk.

Karolina leaned in from a nearby seat. "Listen, this retreat is an opportunity. We have a chance to solidify our position with GoJo. It's all about reading the room and ensuring our legacy isn't undermined by tech flash."

Gerri, looking as polished and composed as ever, nodded, "It's the tech-age gladiator arena. And we need to make sure we don't get fed to the lions."

Roman grinned, "Or the polar bears, right Tom?"

Frank sighed from across the row, "Let's just focus on not becoming a meme. Remember, every word, every gesture is being analyzed."

Shiv rolled her eyes. "Don't you think we know that? We're not children, Frank."

As the jet continued its journey to Norway, the tension aboard was palpable – Greg, all legs and lanky frame, unfolded himself from a corner of the plane, clumsily making his way over to Emma, a nervous smile on his face.

"Hey, um, Emma," he began, scratching the back of his neck, "Just wanted to, you know, extend my deepest gratitude and such for securing me a spot on this metal bird." He gestured around the luxurious cabin, attempting to sound casual. "Pretty swanky, right?"

Emma looked up from her tablet, a smirk forming. "Greg, I'm pretty sure it was Tom who added you to the manifest, not me. But you're welcome, I guess?"

Greg blinked, surprise evident. "Oh, um, really? I just... you know, thought, with your new... elevated status and all, you'd have... uh, pull? But Tom? Seriously? I mean, thank you, Tom!" Greg called out loudly across the jet, waving awkwardly.

Tom raised an eyebrow, then offered a tight-lipped smile and a small salute. "Always got your back, Cousin Greg."

Roman, seizing an opportunity, chimed in, "Yeah, Greg, just remember who got you on the private jet when it comes time to divvy up the scraps." He winked, his voice dripping with mock sincerity.

Greg nodded vigorously. "Noted. Totally noted. But seriously, Emma, thanks for... well, you know, being cool about the whole thing."

Emma chuckled, "All in a day's work, Greg. Just make sure you make the most of this retreat. Network, learn, and for God's sake, don't spill anything on Lukas."

Greg gulped, already imagining a hundred clumsy scenarios. "Uh, yeah, no drink holding for me. Got it."

As the plane continued its trajectory, the subtle power plays and witty exchanges made it clear: the retreat was more than just a business trip, it was a game, and everyone was choosing their moves carefully. Tom, in a sharp suit that seemed just a tad too tight, leaned against a small bar counter on the plane, swirling his glass of whiskey. He noticed Emma approaching and straightened up slightly.