Chapter 183
Chapter 183:
“I’m here to address that speculation directly,” Camille continued. “Yes, Alexander Pierce and I are in a relationship. It began recently, but it is genuine and important to both of us.”
A murmur rippled through the room. They had expected denial, damage control, perhaps even resignation, not this straightforward confirmation.
“We recognize that as leaders of major companies that occasionally compete in the same markets, our personal connection raises questions about potential conflicts of interest,” Alexander added, stepping forward to stand beside her. “We take those concerns seriously.”
He looked at Camille, their eyes meeting briefly. In that moment, something passed between them—strength, certainty, a shared resolve that steadied them both.
“Both Kane Industries and Pierce Enterprises have strict protocols regarding information sharing and competitive practices,” Camille said. “Those protocols remain in place and will be enhanced with additional oversight from our respective boards.”
A reporter from the Wall Street Journal stood. “What about the documents suggesting Mr. Pierce pursued this relationship specifically to gain insider information about Kane Industries?”
Camille nodded, having anticipated this question. “Those documents are fabricated. Both our companies have initiated forensic analyses that will prove this conclusively within twenty-four hours. We believe they were created and distributed as part of a deliberate attempt to damage both our companies and drive down our stock prices.”
“For what purpose?” someone called out.
“That’s a question we’re actively investigating,” Alexander replied. “We have reason to believe certain parties are attempting to acquire controlling interests in our companies during the artificial stock downturn they created.”
A reporter from Bloomberg raised her hand. “Ms. Kane, what does Victoria Kane think about your relationship with a business rival?”
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The question hung in the air, loaded with implications. Everyone knew Victoria’s reputation for keeping business and personal matters strictly separated.
“Ms. Kane values integrity and transparency,” Camille answered carefully. “She supports our decision to address this matter openly rather than allow speculation to damage our companies.”
More hands shot up, voices calling over each other.
“Mr. Pierce, how long has this relationship been going on?”
“Ms. Kane, will you be stepping down from your position?”
“Are there concerns about insider trading?”
Alexander raised his hand, quieting the clamor. “Our relationship began after we had already established professional connections through the Phoenix Grid project. Neither of us sought this connection for business advantage.”
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