conniving — willing to use dishonest or underhanded methods to achieve one's goals; scheming

a sly executive leans across the table whispering secretively into another person's ear while pointing at documents. The listener nods with a cunning smile as they exchange knowing glances. On the table between them lie contracts and papers that they're clearly manipulating for personal gain. In the background, other honest colleagues work at their desks completely unaware of the scheming happening behind them. The shadows cast across the conspirators' faces emphasize their secretive behavior. people willing to use dishonest and underhanded methods to achieve their goals