TRIAL BY FIRE
The conference room was packed. Potential clients, investors, and curious onlookers filled the sleek, glass-walled space of Wynn Media Group.
Elara stood at the head of the room, hands steady despite the tight knot in her stomach.
"This company," she began, voice strong, "is built on honesty, creativity, and results. We don't just follow trends—we set them."
A few investors whispered, skeptical. One man raised his eyebrow.
"And why should we trust a new company, led by someone so publicly involved in scandal?" he asked, voice dripping with doubt.
Elara's eyes flicked to the window, where the city skyline glimmered in the morning light.
"Because I've survived worse," she said firmly.
"Because I know what it means to fight for what's yours. And because I always deliver."
---
Lucien's Support
Lucien stood just behind her, hands in his pockets, watching every reaction in the room. He didn't need to speak—his presence alone was a shield.
After her first slide, she felt his warm gaze.
He believes in me, she thought.
That belief gave her courage. She continued through her presentation with flawless confidence, addressing every question, anticipating every doubt.
By the end, even the most skeptical investor nodded. Contracts were signed. Deals were made.
Elara exhaled, a small triumphant smile spreading across her face.
Lucien stepped forward, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"You did it," he said quietly.
"And you did it alone."
She leaned into him.
"No," she said softly.
"You were with me every step of the way."
---
Serena's Influence Spreads
Far away, in her prison cell, Serena gritted her teeth as she watched a news clip of Elara's successful presentation.
Her smirk turned into a snarl.
"This isn't over," she whispered.
She pressed her hand to a secret phone hidden in her pillow.
"Start the plan," she ordered.
"Everything they've built… it ends now."
Evan, watching from a corner, shook his head.
"Some lines shouldn't be crossed," he warned.
Serena laughed darkly.
"I crossed them already."
---
A Test of Trust
That evening, Lucien and Elara returned to their apartment. The city lights reflected in the glass walls, a calm after the storm of the day.
Elara rubbed her temples.
"Today was exhausting."
Lucien pulled her into his arms.
"You did more than survive—you thrived. And I'm proud of you."
She closed her eyes against his chest.
"But… I feel like she's still out there, waiting."
Lucien pressed a kiss to her forehead.
"She can wait," he said.
"And if she comes, I'll be here. With you. Always."
Elara's fingers traced his jawline.
"I trust you," she whispered.
"But I don't trust her."
He smirked softly.
"Then let's make sure she never gets the chance."