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19. Shadows & Secrets

last update Last Updated: 2025-03-01 21:46:58

The city never slept, but tonight, it felt like it was holding its breath. The weight of the tablet in Adrian’s hand was insignificant compared to the weight of the words flashing across the screen.

ETHAN CAVENDISH LEAKS DAMAGING FILES ON ADRIAN BLACK — QUESTIONS ARISE ABOUT HIS BUSINESS DEALINGS.

ETHAN CAVENDISH ACCUSES ADRIAN BLACK OF FRAUDULENT BUSINESS DEALINGS — INVESTORS ON EDGE.

BLACK ENTERPRISES UNDER FIRE: COULD THE KING FINALLY FALL?

The news headline burned into his mind, but it wasn’t the words that angered him. It was the audacity.

He smirked, shaking his head. Ethan was playing dirty, but it wasn’t unexpected. What was surprising was how quickly the media had latched onto it. Ethan had managed to make it look convincing, just enough to stir doubt in the minds of those who mattered.

A calculated move. But Ethan had underestimated something crucial. Adrian wasn’t a man who played defense. He played to win.

A heavy silence settled in the penthouse. Amelia stood beside Adria
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