Chapter Text
Roman's first day back at Waystar Royco as CFO dawned with the usual chaos of the city below the skyscrapers. He stood in front of the glass entrance, the familiar logo looming above. He took a deep breath, straightened his tie, and pushed through the revolving doors.
He made his way to his office, nodding at familiar faces and acknowledging the occasional "Welcome back, Mr. Roy." His pace was brisk, but there was an underlying tension, a mix of anticipation and apprehension. As he turned the corner towards his office, he saw Gerri standing near the doorway, her expression inscrutable.
"Welcome back, Roman," Gerri said, her tone cool and professional. There was no warmth, no hint of the their past relationship they once shared.
Roman forced a smile, though he could feel the chill in the air between them. "Thanks, Gerri. Good to be back."
Gerri nodded, her eyes assessing him. "We've missed your... unique approach to things."
Roman couldn't help but chuckle, though it sounded hollow even to his ears. "Yeah, well, let's hope I can still bring some of that magic."
She offered a tight-lipped smile, then stepped aside to let him pass. "We'll see... Good luck."
He walked into his office, feeling the weight of her gaze on his back. The room was just as he remembered it, but it felt different somehow, less welcoming. He took a moment to compose himself before sinking into the leather chair behind his desk. His eyes scanned the room, landing on the neatly stacked files and the blinking light on his phone indicating new messages.
Roman sighed, leaning back in his chair. "Here we go," he muttered to himself, reaching for the first file.
The morning passed in a blur of meetings and briefings. He was brought up to speed on the latest developments, the financial health of the company, and the strategic initiatives in place. It was clear that Waystar was at a critical juncture.
Around midday, Roman decided to take a break. He needed some air, a moment to clear his head. He made his way to the executive lounge, hoping to find a quiet corner. As he entered, he saw Gerri, again, sitting at a table, engrossed in some documents. She looked up, their eyes meeting for a brief, charged moment.
"Mind if I join you?" Roman asked, trying to keep his tone light.
Gerri hesitated for a fraction of a second before gesturing to the empty chair across from her. "Go ahead."
He sat down, taking a sip of his coffee. "Busy day?"
"Always," she replied, her focus returning to the papers in front of her.
They sat in silence for a while, the only sounds the rustling of papers and the distant hum of the city outside. Roman felt the urge to bridge the gap, to say something that would ease the tension between them.
"Gerri," he began, choosing his words carefully, "I know things have been... complicated between us. But I want you to know that I'm here to make things work, for the company and for everyone involved."
She looked at him, her expression unreadable. "I appreciate that, Roman. But actions speak louder than words."
Roman nodded. Gerri gave him a curt nod, then returned to her work. Roman took it as a sign to leave her be. He finished his coffee and stood up, feeling a mix of frustration and determination.
"See you around," he said, turning to leave.
"See you, Roman," she replied, her tone softening just a touch.
Back in his office, Roman threw himself into his work with renewed focus. He reviewed financial reports, strategized with his team, and made calls to key stakeholders. The hours flew by, and soon it was late afternoon. Kendall sat in his spacious, the city lights casting a warm glow through the windows. The evening was quiet, the sounds of the city muted by the thick glass. He held his phone to his ear, listening to the dial tone before Roman's voice came through.
"Hey, Rome," Kendall greeted, his voice carrying a hint of weariness.
"Hey, Ken. What's up?" Roman replied, his voice clear despite the distance between them.
Kendall leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair. "Just thinking about everything. About what's next."
Roman chuckled lightly. "Ah, the eternal question. What's next indeed? Thinking about masturbating on a spaceship?"
"Yeah... well, no, uhm," Kendall sighed. "I've been thinking a lot lately about our spots in the company and I’m a bit skeptical about stuff. I-I don’t know, me COO? Maybe that’s a lot."
Roman hummed. "That's big. Been there done that."
"Yeah. Feels like the right move… And hey, I've been thinking about PGM."
Roman's interest perked up. "PGM, huh? You're still keen on that?"
Kendall nodded, forgetting for a moment that Roman couldn't see him. "Yeah, I think it's a good move. We talked about it before, Shiv, you, and me. We agreed it could be huge."
Roman paused, considering Kendall's words. "True. But you think Shiv will go for it?"
Kendall hesitated, knowing Shiv's cautious approach to acquisitions. "Probably not. But maybe I can convince her. It's a big play, Roman. Could change everything."
Roman chuckled softly. "You are delusional, Ken, the acquisition froze after the GoJo deal, what do you wanna do? Fuck Naomi and fuck PGM like you did with Waystar?."
Kendall smiled faintly. "Yeah, well, what's life without fucking up people like dad did, right?"
"Exactly," Roman agreed, his voice warm with understanding. "Look, Ken, if you're serious about PGM, let's talk strategy. Talk to Jonathan and he’ll talk to his people and… he’ll come up with something."
"Sounds good, Rome."
As Kendall ended the call, he leaned back on the sofa, staring out at the city skyline.
The sun was just beginning to rise over New York City, casting a soft, golden glow over the skyline. Jonathan Byron stepped into the Waystar Royco building. Today was his first day as Executive Vice President, a position that carried immense responsibility and potential. The polished marble floors of the lobby gleamed under the early morning light, and the hum of activity was already beginning to pick up as employees filtered in, preparing for another busy day at one of the world's most powerful media conglomerates.
Jonathan strode confidently to the elevator, his polished shoes clicking against the marble floor. The elevator doors opened with a soft chime, and he stepped inside, followed by a few other Waystar employees who greeted him with nods and murmured hellos. Their curiosity was palpable; the new EVP's arrival had been the talk of the building.
Just as the doors were closing, Karolina, slipped inside, her usual calm and composed demeanor in place. She was impeccably dressed, as always, her sharp eyes taking in everything with a practiced gaze. She smiled warmly at Jonathan, her eyes sparkling with professionalism and a hint of curiosity.
"Good morning, Jonathan," she said, extending her hand. "Congratulations on your new role. It's great to have you on board."
Jonathan shook her hand firmly, returning her smile. "For you, it’s John, and, thank you, Karolina. I'm looking forward to working with everyone."
The elevator began its ascent, the soft hum of the machinery the only sound as the other employees remained respectfully silent, sensing the significance of the moment. Karolina stepped closer to Jonathan, lowering her voice slightly to ensure their conversation remained private.
"There's something I wanted to discuss with you," she began. "We're planning a PR stunt to announce your arrival and solidify your position as EVP. Given your background and connections, we believe it could be very impactful."
Jonathan raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A PR stunt, huh? What do you have in mind?"
Karolina's smile widened slightly, her confidence evident. "We're thinking of a high-profile event, something that showcases your leadership and vision for the future of Waystar. It could be a press conference or a strategic partnership announcement. We want to make a strong statement."
Jonathan nodded thoughtfully, considering her proposal. "I see. Ok, I’m in."
The elevator dinged softly as it reached their floor, and the doors slid open. Jonathan and Karolina stepped out, walking side by side down the sleek, modern corridor towards the executive offices.
"I like the idea," Jonathan said, his mind already racing with possibilities.
"Perfect," Karolina agreed, her smile broadening. "Welcome to Waystar, John. I have a feeling you're going to make a significant impact."
Jonathan appreciated her confidence and enthusiasm. "Thank you, Karolina. I intend to." And oh, he did to make a significant impact.
As Jonathan settled into his spacious new office, he took a moment to appreciate the view. He was interrupted by a soft knock on the door.
“Come in,” he called, turning to see Gerri Kellman enter the room. She carried herself with a mix of authority and grace, a testament to her many years navigating the complexities of Waystar Royco.
“Good morning, Mr. Jonathan Byron,” she greeted with a professional yet warm smile. “Welcome to Waystar. We’ve only crossed paths at a few social events, but it’s a pleasure to officially meet you.”
Jonathan stood and extended his hand. “Gerri! Please, call me Jonathan. It’s great to finally meet you properly. I’ve heard a lot about your work here.”
Gerri shook his hand firmly. “Likewise. I’ve heard quite a bit about you as well. I’m looking forward to seeing how you steer things in your new role.”
“Thank you,” Jonathan replied, gesturing for her to take a seat. “Please, have a seat. How’s everything going on your end?”
Gerri settled into one of the plush chairs in front of Jonathan’s desk, crossing her legs gracefully. “Things are progressing. There’s always something to manage, especially in times of transition.”
Jonathan nodded, leaning back in his chair. “I can imagine. I’m keen on ensuring a smooth transition and making a positive impact as soon as possible.”
Gerri smiled, a glint of approval in her eyes. “That’s good to hear. It’s important to have strong leadership, especially now.”
Jonathan leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “I was hoping we could discuss business further. Maybe over dinner?”
Gerri arched an eyebrow slightly, surprised but not displeased by the suggestion. “Dinner? That sounds like a good idea. It would be good to discuss things in a more relaxed setting.”
“Great,” Jonathan replied, his tone enthusiastic. “How about tonight?”
“Tonight works for me,” Gerri said, standing up. “I’ll look forward to it.”
“Excellent,” Jonathan said, standing as well and shaking her hand once more. “I’ll have my assistant send you the details.”
As Gerri left his office, Jonathan sat back down at his desk, and began to strategize for the day ahead.