Chapter 172
Chapter 172:
When the applause died down, Camille asked, “Are there any other questions about the Grid’s specifications or safety features?”
Leonard Ackerman, their largest investor, stood. “I think Ms. Kane has addressed the concerns comprehensively. I’m satisfied with the safety protocols and impressed with the leadership displayed today.”
“In that case,” she said, “I suggest we adjourn the emergency portion of this meeting.”
As the meeting transitioned, Herod leaned close while her microphone was off. “Impressive performance. Victoria trained you well.”
“Not well enough,” Camille replied quietly. “I still haven’t figured out why you’re targeting us specifically.”
“Perhaps I simply enjoy the game,” he suggested.
“No. This is personal for you. Just as it’s personal for Rose.”
Something flickered in his eyes, surprise that she had made the connection. “You think you’ve won today?” he said, his voice hardening. “But you’ve merely delayed the inevitable.”
“Have I?”
Herod smiled thinly. “Kane Industries was built by Victoria. Without her, it’s nothing but an empty shell waiting to collapse.”
“Then why do you look so disappointed?” Camille asked.
Before he could respond, she turned away. When she looked back, Herod was already walking down the steps, phone pressed to his ear.
The rest of the meeting proceeded smoothly. Stock prices began recovering as news spread through financial networks. By the conclusion, Kane Industries’ shares had regained most of their recent losses.
In Victoria’s office afterward, Camille finally allowed herself to exhale. Hannah joined her, bringing coffee.
gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s․𝑐𝓞𝓂 brings great stories
“You destroyed him out there,” Hannah said admiringly. “You reminded me of Victoria.”
The comparison warmed Camille more than she cared to admit. “Speaking of whom, I should call her with an update.”
After Hannah left, Camille looked out over the city, where sections of the Phoenix Grid now powered thousands of homes and businesses. Somewhere, Rose and Herod were regrouping.
She replayed Herod’s words: Kane Industries was built by Victoria. Without her, it’s nothing but an empty shell waiting to collapse.
Not true, she told herself. Yet, she wondered, was she truly leading, or merely following Victoria’s instructions? Had she proven herself today, or simply executed someone else’s plan?
Her phone rang. Alexander.
.
.
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