Chapter 454

Chapter 454:

The casual way he spoke about mobilizing billions made Alexander’s chest tighten. These people lived in a world where money was just a tool, where financial markets could be moved by phone calls between old friends.

“We can’t thank you enough for what you did,” Camille said, reaching across the table to squeeze her father’s hand. “If you hadn’t stepped in when you did…”

“Nonsense,” Margaret interrupted. “You’re our daughter. Of course we were going to help.”

Alexander watched the exchange, seeing the genuine love between Camille and her parents. They had hurt her deeply in the past, but they were trying to make amends now.

“The attack on Kane Industries was quite sophisticated,” Richard observed, cutting into his steak. “Someone put a lot of thought into those stock manipulations.”

Alexander’s fork froze halfway to his mouth. “Sophisticated how?”

“The timing, the coordination, the specific rumors that were spread.” Richard’s eyes never left Alexander’s face. “It wasn’t random market volatility. Someone with inside knowledge orchestrated the whole thing.”

“Do you think they’ll try again?” Camille asked, worry creeping into her voice.

“Possibly,” Richard said. “But it will be much harder now. The institutional support we arranged sends a clear message—Kane Industries has powerful friends. Anyone thinking about another attack will have to consider the consequences.”

The threat was politely worded but unmistakable. Alexander felt sweat form between his shoulder blades despite the mansion’s perfect climate control.

“Well, whoever it was picked the wrong target,” Margaret said firmly. “Nobody attacks our family without consequences.”

Our family. The words hit Alexander like a punch to the stomach. They were including him in that protection, treating him as one of their own. Even as he planned to destroy everything they had worked to save.

The main course gave way to dessert, and the conversation shifted to lighter topics. Camille told stories about their honeymoon in Italy, her face glowing as she described the villa, the food, and the perfect weather.

Alexander smiled and nodded at the right moments, playing the part of the devoted husband. As coffee was served, Margaret excused herself from the table. “I have something for you, darling,” she told Camille. “A little gift to celebrate Kane Industries’ recovery.”

She returned carrying a velvet jewelry box that looked antique and valuable. “This has been in our family for four generations. I’ve been waiting for the right moment to pass it on to you.”

Camille’s eyes widened as her mother opened the box. Inside lay a necklace that took Alexander’s breath away. Diamonds and sapphires formed an intricate pattern around what had to be a twenty-carat center stone, the whole piece glittering like captured starlight.

“Mom, I can’t accept this,” Camille whispered. “It must be worth…”

“Ten million dollars,” Margaret said simply. “Give or take. Your great-great-grandmother wore it to meet the Queen of England. Your great-grandmother wore it to the opera with the Astors. Your grandmother wore it to her wedding.”

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