Legacy Unraveled (Kendall Roy X Reader)

Chapter Six

The grand hall of the GoJo retreat was a blend of rustic charm and modern opulence — the perfect setting for a union of old media moguls and tech titans. As Emma was taking in the surroundings, Tom approached her, a mischievous glint in his eye.

As Tom brought Emma over, he gestured towards Lukas, "Emma, meet Lukas Matsson. The man, the myth. And Lukas, this is Emma Donovan, our COO."

Lukas looked her over with a nod, "Ah, the infamous Emma. Heard a lot about you. Mostly corporate legends and fiscal fairy tales."

Emma offered a small smile, careful to keep any familiarity at bay. "Likewise, Lukas. I've heard you're the guy who's aiming to connect the world, or at least profit from those trying."

Lukas chuckled, "Well, isn't that what we're all doing? Except, you know, I like my playground to be the universe."

Tom, sensing the subtle spar, chimed in, "All in good fun. After all, isn't the business world just a big playground for adults?"

Emma continued, maintaining the facade, "Indeed. Although, I must admit, Lukas, I'm surprised you find the time to play with us terrestrial folk, given GoJo's many... extraterrestrial ambitions."

Lukas, eyes twinkling, replied, "Every once in a while, it's good to come back down to Earth. Keeps things...grounded."

Emma smirked, "Well, while you're here, let's make sure we all play nice. For the sake of both our planets."

He nodded, "Agreed. Here's to new beginnings and...renewed acquaintances."

Their eyes locked for a moment, a shared secret. But as quickly as it came, it vanished, replaced by polite corporate nods. The dance had just begun.

Emma watched as Tom retreated to mingle with some GoJo executives, leaving her alone with Lukas. She took a deep breath, weighing the gravity of the situation.

"About that Trent interview," she began, her voice hushed, "It got nasty, and they went after the Donovans. We need a strategy."

Lukas looked unimpressed, taking a sip of his drink. "Madeline Trent always was a bulldog. Although, sometimes it's the bark that gets you, not the bite." He paused, looking out into the distance. "But there might be bigger fish to fry."

Emma's eyebrow arched, waiting for him to continue.

"We've been eyeing WayStar for a while now," Lukas began, almost casually. "But I'm thinking bigger. WayStar and ATN. One package deal."

Emma's eyes widened. She had expected this, but not so soon, and definitely not ATN. "Lukas, ATN is the lifeblood of WayStar's media division. You can't just—"

"Why not?" he interjected, a devilish smile playing on his lips. "I love a challenge. And the prospect of you taking the helm? Well, that's just icing on the cake."

Emma took a moment to process. "You're not just looking to acquire. You're looking to rebrand, reshape... You want a revolution."

Lukas's gaze sharpened, "Emma, revolutions are for the streets. I want evolution. A leap forward. And if the rumors are true, you're the kind of forward-thinker that can spearhead that. CEO of WayStar, under the GoJo umbrella. Think about it."

The magnitude of what Lukas was proposing was monumental. Emma took a breath, steadying herself, "And if I refuse?"

Lukas smirked, "Then you might just find yourself in the shadow of someone who won't. But I have a feeling, Ms. Donovan, that you're not one to lurk in the shadows. Not anymore."

The retreat's grand hall was unlike anything the WayStar executives had seen before: sleek, ultra-modern, and every piece of furniture seemed to hint at some advanced piece of tech. It was all very... Lukas. The man himself stood at the head of the room, donning an outfit that looked part-suit, part-spacesuit—sharp lines, minimalist colors, and a collar that seemed to defy gravity. "Gentlemen, lady," he began, nodding at Emma, "Shall we?"