The grand dining hall of the Morena estate was imposing, its high ceilings and antique decor reflecting centuries of tradition and power. Alex stood at the head of the long oak table, his hands clasped behind his back as he surveyed the room. Around him, carefully selected members of the family and trusted business allies murmured in quiet conversation.
He raised a hand, silencing the crowd. "Thank you all for joining me this evening. I called this meeting to discuss a pressing matter concerning the future of this family."
Lynam entered the hall, his expression unreadable, followed by Xanthe. She was visibly tense, her gaze flicking between Alex and the other attendees. Michelle was already seated, her perfectly composed demeanor hiding the glee she felt at being included in such a pivotal moment.
"Lynam," Alex said, his tone carrying a mix of authority and disdain. "It's good you're here. This concerns you more than anyone."
Lynam exchanged a glance with Xanthe before addressing his father. "What's this about?"
Alex gestured to a series of documents spread out on the table. "Your marriage."
The room buzzed with hushed whispers. Xanthe stiffened, her hands curling into fists at her sides.
"What about it?" Lynam's voice was sharp, defensive.
"It's a liability," Alex said bluntly. "Your union with... her," his gaze shifted to Xanthe with thinly veiled contempt, "is drawing unnecessary scrutiny. It's affecting your reputation, your business dealings, and this family's legacy."
Xanthe stepped forward, her voice steady despite the anger simmering beneath the surface. "With all due respect, Mr. Morena, my marriage to Lynam is none of your concern."
Alex chuckled darkly. "You're wrong, my dear. It's very much my concern. This family operates on trust and tradition, two things you've failed to uphold."
Lynam slammed his hand on the table, making everyone jump. "That's enough. My marriage is not up for discussion."
"Oh, but it is," Alex countered, his voice rising. "You've let this woman cloud your judgment, weaken you. And now, because of her, this family is vulnerable."
In another wing of the estate, Elias and Michelle met in a dimly lit study. Elias leaned against a bookshelf, his arms crossed, while Michelle poured herself a glass of wine.
"Your father is doing a fine job setting the stage," Elias said, a sly smile playing on his lips.
Michelle took a sip of her wine, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "He's persistent, I'll give him that. But Lynam is stubborn. He won't just let her go."
"That's where you come in," Elias replied. "If we can't break their bond with words, we'll do it with actions."
Michelle raised an eyebrow. "Actions like what?"
Elias stepped closer, lowering his voice. "We make Xanthe doubt him. Plant seeds of mistrust. If she starts to believe that Lynam isn't faithful, that he's working against her, she'll walk away on her own."
Michelle smirked. "And you think she'll just fall for that?"
"She's proud," Elias said. "And pride makes people predictable. All it takes is the right push."
Michelle's smirk widened. "Consider it done."