Chapter 432
Chapter 432:
Victoria turned from the window, crossing to her desk with measured steps that betrayed none of her inner turmoil. Cancer had weakened her body, but not her mind. Never her mind.
“Increase monitoring on all archived records,” she instructed, closing the folder with a decisive snap. “Set alerts for any access to materials from that period. And compile a list of anyone who might have interest in those old files.”
“That could be a long list,” Jason pointed out. “Competitors, business historians, financial analysts, former employees…”
“Start with the most obvious. We need to understand the intent behind these searches.”
Jason nodded, gathering the folder. “And if we identify the source of the breach?”
Victoria met his gaze directly. “Then we approach them respectfully to understand their interest.”
After Jason left, Victoria sank into her chair, allowing herself a rare moment of reflection. Her hand trembled slightly as she opened her desk drawer and removed a small silver pill case. The medication inside wasn’t for cancer—it was for moments like this, when stress threatened to overwhelm her carefully maintained composure.
Fifteen years was a long time in business. Kane Industries had grown exponentially since then, expanding into new markets, acquiring companies, establishing itself as a major player. What could someone possibly want with records from that era?
Her phone buzzed. Camille’s name flashed on the screen, the timing almost uncanny.
“Victoria? Just checking in! The Amalfi Coast is incredible. Alexander found this tiny restaurant in Ravello that sits right on the cliff edge. You’d love it.”
Victoria’s throat tightened at the sound of her adopted daughter’s voice, so filled with casual happiness, so unaware of the matters requiring attention back home.
“It sounds wonderful, dear. You’re still extending the trip another week?”
“Yes, if that’s okay? Alexander surprised me with reservations in Capri. I’ve never seen him so relaxed.”
Victoria closed her eyes, picturing Camille’s face glowing with honeymoon joy. Far away from New York. Far away from corporate concerns.
“Of course it’s okay. The company is running smoothly. Nothing here requires your attention.”
Nothing except someone suddenly becoming interested in fifteen-year-old corporate records for reasons she couldn’t fathom.
“How are the treatments going?” Camille asked, concern evident despite the poor connection.
“Remarkably well. The doctors are very pleased.” This, at least, wasn’t a lie. “Don’t worry about me. Enjoy your time with Alexander.”
After ending the call, Victoria moved to the window again. The rain had intensified, beating against the glass like an accusation she couldn’t identify.
What had happened fifteen years ago that someone would find worth investigating now? Kane Industries had always operated above board, maintained proper documentation, followed all regulations. But the targeted nature of this breach suggested someone was looking for something specific.
.
.
.