"First, it was Esme, and now here comes Rose, the so-called 'untouchable' business mogul, who has really just been playing us for fools while our stocks tumble down the drain!"
Diana flinched at the mention of Esme. She knew the situation had spiraled beyond her control, but hearing her mother's fury directed so personally stung deeply. She had believed she was on the verge of a breakthrough, that she could corner Esme and reveal her secrets. But instead, she had failed—and now the consequences were becoming unbearable.
Mr. Valhalle tried to calm his wife. "Madam, this isn't all Diana's fault. We were all too eager to believe in this plan. Now is not the time for blame—"
"Not the time for blame?!" Madam Valhalle's voice was shrill. "It is always the time for blame when it's *my* company at stake. If Diana can't handle the pressure, then she shouldn't be near the family business!"
