Phase 2: Undermining the Marriage
Behind the scenes, Alex and Michelle began to plant seeds of doubt in Lynam's mind. Alex shared "evidence" of financial irregularities linked to the Redwoods, documents forged to appear as though Xanthe had been siphoning money to help her family.
"She's using you," Alex told Lynam, his tone fatherly. "You've always been blind when it comes to women. I warned you about this marriage."
Lynam's jaw tightened. "Enough, Father. You've been against Xanthe from the start."
"And for good reason," Alex pressed. "If she's innocent, why hasn't she told you about her family's latest scandal? Don't you think it's odd?"
Simultaneously, Michelle worked on Xanthe. She began "bumping into" Xanthe at events, dropping cryptic remarks designed to unsettle her.
"You know," Michelle said one evening, sipping a glass of champagne, "Lynam and I used to have an understanding. He valued honesty. I wonder what he'd think if he found out about your little secrets."
Xanthe stiffened. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Michelle leaned in, her smile chilling. "Oh, I think you do. A word of advice: marriages built on lies never last."
The Climax: A Carefully Orchestrated Showdown
Alex and Michelle's ultimate plan came to fruition at a business luncheon where influential allies and potential investors were gathered. Alex orchestrated a dramatic "reveal," claiming that Xanthe's family had been laundering money through one of Lynam's subsidiaries.
As Alex presented the forged documents, the room erupted in murmurs.
"Lynam," Alex said, feigning regret, "you've always trusted the wrong people. I only hope it's not too late to fix this mess."
Xanthe stood, her voice steady but laced with anger. "This is a fabrication. Alex will do anything to undermine me."
"Prove it," Alex challenged, his eyes gleaming.
For a moment, the tension in the room was palpable. All eyes turned to Lynam.
LYNAM AND XANTHE'S COUNTERATTACK
Unbeknownst to Alex and Michelle, Xanthe and Lynam had been one step ahead. They had uncovered Alex's forger days earlier and obtained evidence of his schemes.
"Actually, Father," Lynam said coolly, pulling out a folder, "I already did. These documents?" He held up Alex's "evidence." "Fake. And here's proof of who created them."
Alex's face paled as Lynam handed the documents to the stunned investors.
"And Michelle," Xanthe added, her voice razor-sharp, "next time you want to play games, make sure you know the rules. My marriage isn't as fragile as you think."
Michelle glared but said nothing, knowing her position was untenable.
The room slowly began to applaud, the tide turning in Xanthe and Lynam's favor. Alex and Michelle left in disgrace, their plans in ruins.