SCORNED EX WIFE Queen Of Ashes (Camille and Stefan)

Chapter 49

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 gar

"I understand your interest in Rose Lewis's fashion line, M. Hiroshi," he said, voice smooth as aged whiskey." But my analysis suggests it would be an unwise investment at this time. The brand carries significar 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 sending you some additional informatic He'd spent hours compiling this dossier -

rumors of design theft, details of canceled retail contracts, hints of connections to Bessonov's questionable finances. All

true, all damaging, all impossible to ignore for a cautious investor like Hiroshi."

"This is... most concerning," Hiroshi said after a lengthy pause. "You've saved me from a significant mistake, Mr. Pierce. I owe you a debt of gratitude."

"Not at all. That's what friends do." Alexander kept his voice warm, collegial. "There will be better opportunities. Perhaps we could discuss

the tech portfolio I mentioned last month?"

After finalizing plans to redirect Hiroshi's investment toward one of his own companies, Alexander ended the call and checked his list. Rose Lewis had approached nine potential investors since her business began collapsing. He'd now intercepted and turned away seven of them.

The phone rang again, his private line. Only three people had this number.

"Sarah. Updates?"

His secretary's efficient voice filled the room. "Rodriguez Shipping approached Eastern Capital Partners this morning. They're seeking hundred million in emergency financing."

Alexander frowned slightly. Eastern Capital was one of the few major investment firms he didn't have direct influence over.

"Who's handling their case?"

"David Chen."

Alexander smiled. David owed him a favor from last year's Hong Kong deal. "Connect me to him. And have the team prepare a detailed risk assessment on Rodriguez Shipping. Make sure it emphasizes their A "Already done, sir. The assessment is being delivered to Mr. Chen's office as we speak."

"Excellent." Alexander paused. "Any news from Kane Industries?"

"Ms. Kane is scheduled

to appear at the Metropolitan Museum fundraiser tonight. Our sources indicate she'll be alone, Victoria is in Chicago for a separate engagement."

Chapter 49

Interesting. Camille attending a major event without Victoria's watchful presence. An opportunity, perhaps.

"Send flowers to her office. White roses. No card."

"Yes, sir. Anything else?"

back to the window, mind already

on Sterling Financial's exposure to Rodriguez

sir. They're significantly overextended. If Rodriguez defaults on their existing loans, Sterling could face a liquidity

Leak that information to the Wall Street Journal's financial desk. Anonymously,

the distance, the lights of Kane Tower glowed steady and bright, Victoria's

"Mr. Pierce,

Stanley on line one. He's asking about your interest

desk, a small smile playing at his lips. So Rose had reached out to

good evening." He

"What

fashion brand facing some temporary difficulties. Strong fundamentals, excellent design team, just

asked, though he

confirmed

my business to stay informed."

up the contingency plan he'd prepared for this exact call. "Send me the prospectus. I'll

11

keep other potential rescuers waiting, watching, wasting precious time while her brand sank further into crisis. After ending the call, Alexander checked his other screen, where a different battle was being monitored. Three major shipping companies were circling

in, his people had suggested, when patience would yield a much

phone buzzed with an alert. Rodriguez Shipping stock had just

low in

yesterday's close. Another successful day in the systematic dismantling of Stefan

who'd once saved him when he had noth

Chapter 49

He'd

cost of revenge. The way it hollowed you

elevator pinged, doors sliding open to admit his chief

surveillance report you requested,"

Kane's movements for the

Alexander nodded his

various business meetings, charity functions, private dinners with Victoria. In each image, she appeared compo Only someone who knew what to look for would

because he'd once worn the same mask. The face of someone consumed by revenge, hollowed out by its demands, questioning what would remain when the fire of hatred finally burne Alexander moved to a hidden panel in his office wall, pressing his

and secrets that could topple governments, lay

it carefully, opening the lid to reveal the silver rose

to return

when his family abandoned him. Who'd

woman who now

followed behind, helping clear obstacles, ensuring her success. Watching her

again, the secure line connected to his most

just announced an emergency audit of all shipping industry loans. Rodriguez Shipping stock is dropping

we discussed.

Not to actually acquire

of interest keeping other potential buyers away until Kane Industries could make their move. Another

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