Chapter 7 - The Poisoned PenVictoria’s media campaign reached a boiling point three days later. She held a live press conference in front of the city's main financial center, posing as a victim of corporate bullying.
"The Hawthorne family hides behind their wealth while treating ordinary people like trash!" Victoria claimed dramatically in front of dozens of cameras. "Their mansion is run like a medieval kingdom where guests are humiliated!"
The crowd murmured, and reporters scrambled to publish the scandal.
Unbeknownst to Victoria, a quiet black sedan pulled up across the street. The window rolled down slightly, revealing Alexander’s calm, calculating gaze.
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"Is the security footage prepared?" Alexander asked his assistant in the front seat.
"Yes, Mr. Hawthorne. Crystal clear audio and video from every angle of the foyer."
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Chapter 8 - The Unveiling of the TruthAt 2:00 PM that afternoon, the Hawthorne Corporation held its own emergency press conference. Hundreds of journalists crammed into the auditorium, expecting Alexander to offer a formal apology or a quiet settlement.
Chapter 9 - The ReversalThe atmosphere in the room flipped in a single second. The journalists gasped, their cameras flashing rapidly as they captured the undeniable proof of Victoria’s arrogance and cruelty.
Chapter 10 - Shadows at the GateDespite her public ruin, Victoria refused to accept defeat. Driven by humiliation and hatred, she sought out someone who shared her bitterness: Richard Hawthorne, Alexander’s estranged cousin who had been cast out of the family years ago for embezzlement.
Chapter 11 - The Gala InvitationA week later, the annual City Charity Gala was held at the Grand Hotel. It was an event where the city's most influential figures gathered.
Chapter 12 - The Whispered WarningAs the waiter moved through the crowd toward Eleanor and Sarah, Sarah’s sharp eyes noticed something subtle. The waiter’s hands were trembling slightly, and he kept his gaze fixed strictly on one specific glass on his tray.
Chapter 13 - Caught in the ActThe loud crash of breaking glass drew the attention of nearby guests and security guards. The waiter turned and tried to bolt toward the kitchen exit, but Alexander’s security team tackled him to the floor within seconds.
