The Dominants Game

Chapter 52

Meeting with the Berkshires

Rosetta entered the private room at the campaign headquarters, feeling a knot of tension in her stomach. She had been summoned by Blair and Lorenzo Berkshire, and the tone of the message left no doubt that this was going to be an intense conversation. Lucius and Mattheo were not present, leaving her to face the Berkshires alone.

Blair and Lorenzo stood near a large, mahogany desk, their expressions stern but composed. The room was dimly lit, with only the glow of the fireplace adding warmth to the otherwise cold atmosphere.

"Rosetta," Blair began, her voice smooth and commanding. "We need to talk about last night's press conference."

Rosetta nodded, steeling herself for the inevitable reprimand. "I understand. I'm here to listen."

Lorenzo stepped forward, his eyes piercing. "You went off script, Rosetta. You compromised the strategy we've meticulously laid out for your campaign. Do you understand the gravity of that decision?"

Rosetta took a deep breath. "I do, but I also need to stay true to my values. The points I didn't agree with go against everything I stand for."

Blair's gaze softened slightly, but her voice remained firm. "We respect your values, Rosetta. But you need to understand that this campaign isn't just about you. It's about the future of our entire community. We have laid out these plans with the utmost care, considering every angle and beneficiary."

Lorenzo nodded in agreement. "Winning this election will not only solidify your position but also bring about the changes we've all been working towards. It's crucial that we present a united front. Deviations, no matter how well-intentioned, can create cracks in our foundation."

Rosetta felt a wave of conflicting emotions. She knew they were right about the bigger picture, but compromising her integrity still felt wrong. "I understand your perspective. But I need to find a way to balance my values with the strategy."

Blair took a step closer, her voice becoming more persuasive. "Think about Lucius, Rosetta. Think about how proud he will be when you win. This victory will solidify not only your position but his as well. He has put his trust in us, in you. We need you to follow through with the plan."

Lorenzo added, his voice low and insistent, "Lucius believes in you, and we believe in you. But you need to trust us, trust the process. The beneficiaries of this plan are counting on us to succeed. This isn't just about politics; it's about real, tangible changes that will improve lives."

Blair's eyes bore into Rosetta's, her tone softening but with an edge of pressure. "Lucius has always spoken about how much he admires your willingness to do what it takes. He relies on your ability to adapt and support him. Remember, this campaign is as much about him as it is about you. Don't you want to make him proud?"

Rosetta felt the weight of their words pressing down on her. She wanted to please Lucius, to make him proud. The thought of him standing beside her, celebrating their victory, was a powerful motivator. But the idea of compromising her principles still gnawed at her.

"Blair, Lorenzo," she said slowly, "I do want to win. I want to make Lucius proud, and I want to see the positive changes we can bring about. But I need to find a way to do it without losing myself in the process."

Lorenzo's expression turned slightly more insistent. "Rosetta, we've all had to make sacrifices for the greater good. Sometimes that means bending a little, even when it feels uncomfortable. You know how much this means to Lucius. Are you willing to jeopardize everything because of a few differences?"

Blair placed a hand on Rosetta's shoulder, her touch both comforting and confining. "Think of the bigger picture. Your willingness to be flexible, to accommodate, shows strength and dedication. This is what Lucius loves about you. Don't let him down."