Chapter 48

Third-Person POV

The view from the seventy-eighth floor of Pierce Tower turned Manhattan into a miniature city, tiny lights flickering like stars below. Alexander stood at the floor-to-ceiling window, phone pressed to his ear, watching darkness spread across the skyline. His reflection stared back at him, perfectly tailored suit, carefully neutral expression, eyes that revealed nothing of the game he was playing.

“I understand your interest in Rose Lewis’s fashion line, Mr. Hiroshi,” he said, voice smooth as aged whiskey. “But my analysis suggests it would be an unwise investment at this time. The brand carries significant hidden liabilities.”

The Japanese investor on the other end sounded disappointed. “Our research indicated solid growth potential despite recent... difficulties.”

“Your research is incomplete,” Alexander replied, moving to his desk where three monitors displayed financial data on Rose’s collapsing business. “I’ve taken the liberty of