Louis continued, his tone perfectly measured.“In the world of business, we often find ourselves clashing with individuals whose methods and motives differ from our own. Vivian is one such individual. She is... relentless, cunning, and has an unparalleled ability to command attention.”He paused, his lips curving into what seemed to be an appreciative smile.“But, as I’ve come to realize, those qualities are a double-edged sword. Vivian’s talent for creating chaos is only matched by her uncanny knack for being at the center of it.”A few chuckles rippled through the audience, but Louis pressed on, his tone remaining earnest.“So today, I offer my apology. Not for doubting her brilliance—because, truly, who could?—but for underestimating just how… theatrical she could be.”The crowd’s laughter grew louder, and Vivian’s smirk faltered slightly.She straightened in her chair, her sharp eyes narrowing as she realized Louis’s words were laced with mockery.“I mean it when I say that Vivian

Louis turned to Terminator X.“Do we have enough evidence to connect The Broker directly to the documents?”Terminator X nodded.“Plenty. I’ve traced the leak back to one of his shell companies. We’ve got financial records, email correspondence—enough to show that he orchestrated this.”“Good,” Louis said.“Juliet, I want you to organize a public hearing. We’ll present the evidence and show the city the truth.”Juliet stopped pacing, her eyes narrowing.“You’re talking about going straight to the public? That’s risky. What if it backfires?”“It won’t,” Louis said firmly.“The Broker’s strength lies in the shadows. If we drag him into the light, we take away his advantage.”Pearl tilted her head, studying him.“You’re putting everything on the line with this move, Louis. Are you sure it’s worth it?”“It’s the only way,” Louis replied.“We can’t let him keep manipulating us.”Juliet worked quickly to organize the hearing, securing a neutral venue and reaching out to reporters and stakeh

The courtroom was abuzz with tension as the trial resumed.Reporters filled the gallery, their pens and cameras poised to capture every word.At the defense table, Louis sat with Juliet and Pearl, his expression calm but his mind racing.Across from them, Adrian Falk lounged in his chair, his smug grin a constant reminder that he believed he had the upper hand.“All rise,” the bailiff announced as the judge entered.The trial was about to get underway, and the stakes couldn’t have been higher.Juliet stood, her voice confident.“Your Honor, the defense would like to call a surprise witness to the stand: Ms. Pearl Marks.”Adrian’s smirk faltered slightly as Pearl rose gracefully from her seat and strode to the witness stand.She exuded confidence, her sharp gaze sweeping the room like she owned it.“Ms. Marks,” Juliet began, “you’re a close associate of Louis Kindsor and a key figure in the AAA Group. Can you speak to the accusations against Mr. Greaves?”Pearl nodded, her voice steady

Juliet crossed her arms.“Strategic adjustments? You mean scaling back. Cutting unnecessary projects, tightening our operations.”Pearl raised an eyebrow.“Scaling back isn’t a strategy—it’s a retreat. What we need is new investments. If we bring in fresh capital, we can bounce back stronger.”Juliet shook her head, her frustration evident.“We just spent weeks fighting to clear our name. Do you really think investors are going to line up to throw money at us right now?”Pearl’s tone was cool and sharp.“That depends on how persuasive we are. Unlike you, I don’t believe in playing it safe when we’re on the brink.”“Playing it safe is how we survive,” Juliet shot back.“We can’t afford to take risks right now.”“And we can’t afford to sit on our hands and hope for the best,” Pearl retorted.“You’re thinking small, Juliet. This isn’t just about survival—it’s about regaining our dominance.”Louis raised his hands, his voice cutting through the argument.“Enough. We’re not here to fight e

Isabella gestured for them to sit.“I understand you’re facing some… complications with your international ventures. I might be able to help—for the right price, of course.”Juliet’s eyes narrowed.“And what exactly is your price, Ms. Montclair?”Isabella smiled, her gaze flicking to Juliet.“A partnership, naturally. I have connections that could be… useful in steering public opinion back in your favor.”“And what’s in it for you?” Pearl asked, her tone sharp.“No one offers help without expecting something in return.”Isabella’s smile widened, her eyes gleaming.“Let’s just say I like being on the winning side.”Throughout the dinner, Isabella’s charm was undeniable, but it only added to the growing tension at the table.Juliet and Pearl exchanged subtle barbs, each testing Isabella’s motives.“You seem very confident in your ability to sway public opinion,” Juliet said, her tone polite but pointed.“But confidence doesn’t always equal results.”Isabella raised an eyebrow, her smile