Chapter 119

Lights flashed like lightning as Camille and Alexander stepped onto the small stage set up in the Kane Industries media room. The wall behind them displayed both company logos side by side, a visual statement before either of them spoke a word. Dozens of reporters filled the seats, their faces hungry for drama, for weakness, for any hint of shame they could exploit.

Camille wore a deep blue dress that matched Alexander’s tie, another deliberate choice. Her heart hammered against her ribs, but her face remained calm, poised. Only Alexander could feel the slight tremor in her hand as he helped her to the podium.

“Thank you all for coming on such short notice,” she began, her voice steady despite the storm inside her. “I know there has been considerable speculation today regarding my relationship with Alexander Pierce following the publication of certain photographs.”

The cameras clicked furiously. In the front row, she spotted Malcolm Reed from the New York Spectator