The backlash was immediate.
By the time the car reached the Harrington estate, Lucas's phone had vibrated more than a dozen times—board members, legal advisors, investors, all demanding explanations.
Elara watched the city blur past the window, her pulse steady despite the storm she knew she had ignited.
"You've triggered a board emergency meeting," Lucas said at last, breaking the silence.
"Good," Elara replied.
He glanced at her sharply. "You think this is a victory?"
"No," she said honestly. "I think it's a beginning."
The car slowed through the gates.
Lucas exhaled slowly, the tension in his shoulders tightening rather than easing. "You don't understand how this company works."
"I understand exactly how it works," Elara said. "You sacrifice what you can control to protect what you value."
His jaw tightened. "And what do you think I value?"
She turned to him. "Your image. Your legacy. Your power."
The car stopped.
Lucas didn't move to exit.
