Chapter 179

Chapter 179:

“Based on what? That you have a personal life?”

“Based on the suggestion that my personal life creates a conflict of interest.” She gestured to a tablet. “These documents they’re circulating, they’re fake, but convincing. Emails showing you pursued me for information about Kane Industries. Records suggesting you’ve been buying our stock through proxies.”

Alexander scanned the article with growing anger. “These emails never existed. I can prove it.”

“By the time we prove it, the damage will be done.” Camille turned toward the window. “They’re trying to force a crisis of confidence. If the stock falls far enough, Herod can move to acquire controlling interest.”

“I won’t let that happen,” Alexander said firmly.

Camille turned back to him. “We need to be strategic. The board will want to separate us publicly to stabilize the stock price.”

Alexander stepped closer. “And what do you want?”

The question hung between them. What did she want? For months, her focus had been on revenge, then on Victoria’s recovery, and then on proving herself worthy. Her own desires had seemed irrelevant.

Until Alexander. Until that afternoon when she had allowed herself to want something beyond victory.

“I want…” she began, then stopped as the door opened.

Victoria Kane stood in the doorway.

Camille froze. Victoria should still be at home recovering. The surgery had been successful, but her doctors had recommended another week of rest.

“Victoria,” she said, moving forward. “You shouldn’t be here.”

Victoria waved away her concern, walking in with only the slightest stiffness. Despite her recent surgery, she radiated authority, dressed impeccably in a charcoal suit.

“I go where I’m needed,” she said simply. “And clearly, I’m needed here.”

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She crossed to her desk, setting down a small leather portfolio. Her gaze traveled from Camille to Alexander, assessing them both.

“So,” she said finally. “This is our crisis.”

She gestured to the New York Spectator website still displayed.

“Yes,” Camille acknowledged, bracing for disappointment or anger.

Instead, Victoria nodded thoughtfully. “Sit down, both of you. We don’t have much time before the board meeting.”

They obeyed, taking chairs across from Victoria.

“The photos are real,” Victoria stated. Not a question.

“Yes,” Camille confirmed. “Taken without our knowledge three days ago.”

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