"A MARRIAGE UNDER SIEGE"
Alex paced his office, his jaw tight with frustration. "Lynam's marriage to that Redwood girl has weakened him," he muttered. "He's lost focus. If we don't act now, he'll consolidate his power—and drag that woman along with him."
Michelle, lounging elegantly in a chair across from him, smirked. "You sound almost scared, Alex. You should have let me deal with Xanthe long ago. I can ruin her."
Alex stopped pacing, narrowing his eyes at Michelle. "I don't want her ruined—I want her gone. For good. She's a distraction, and worse, a liability. If we attack her credibility and break her bond with Lynam, we'll have him right where we need him."
Michelle's smile sharpened. "I like the sound of that. But she's tougher than she looks. We'll need precision."
ALEX'S PLAN IN MOTION
PHASE 1 : PUBLIC HUMILIATION
Alex arranged a high-profile charity gala, ensuring that Xanthe and Lynam would attend. He "leaked" a fabricated story to influential reporters that Xanthe had been using her marriage to Lynam to cover up a shady investment deal made by her estranged family.
At the gala, Xanthe noticed the whispers and sideways glances almost immediately. Women in glittering gowns clustered together, their gossip spreading like wildfire.
"Do you think it's true?" one whispered loudly enough for Xanthe to hear. "The Redwoods have always been opportunists. She probably married him for the money."
Lynam stepped closer, sensing her tension. "Ignore them," he murmured.
Before Xanthe could respond, Alex approached, his expression full of faux concern.
"Xanthe, Lynam," he greeted them, his voice silky. "I couldn't help but notice the buzz tonight. I hope it isn't true—your family's financial troubles?"
Xanthe met his gaze steadily. "Whatever you've heard, Alex, it's none of your business."
Alex chuckled. "Of course. But you know how these things go. Perception is everything. I'd hate for Lynam's reputation to be tarnished."
Michelle appeared at Alex's side, her smile venomous. "Oh, Alex, let's not dwell on unpleasant topics. After all, Xanthe's family troubles don't define her. Or do they?"
The room seemed to hold its breath. Xanthe felt her cheeks burn, but she refused to let them see her falter.
"I'll let my actions speak for themselves," she said coldly, taking Lynam's arm. "Excuse us."