The Tempest Edge

Mark's call had left Ethan visibly shaken. Rory sensed a deeper issue between them.

"Hey, Ethan, what's going on?" Rory asked, as they walked back to the truck.

Ethan sighed. "Mark's been trying to one-up me for years. He's ruthless."

Rory's eyes widened. "Why is he so competitive?"

Ethan shrugged. "He's driven by ego and a desire for recognition."

Their conversation was interrupted by Mark's arrival. "Ethan, we need to talk."

Ethan's expression turned guarded. "What is it, Mark?"

Mark's tone was aggressive. "I heard you had Rory Thompson with you today. That's not exactly the best publicity for our team."

Rory felt a spark of anger. "Excuse me? What's wrong with me?"

Mark's smirk was infuriating. "You're not exactly storm-chasing material, Aurora."

Ethan stepped in. "Hey, back off, Mark. Rory's a valuable asset to our team."

Mark sneered. "Valuable asset? She's just a pretty face."

Rory's face flushed. "How dare you!"

Ethan's eyes flashed. "Mark, that's enough."

The tension between them was palpable.

Little did Rory know, Mark's words had struck a nerve, and Ethan's feelings for her were growing stronger.