"I'm not sure what you mean," she replied smoothly, her tone carefully neutral. "My business dealings are all aboveboard, as I'm sure you know."
I leaned forward giving a piercing gaze. "Let's not waste time with denials, Caroline. We know about your connections to Vanessa. We know how she's used you to shield her from scrutiny, to facilitate deals that go against every ethical principle."
For a brief moment, Caroline's facade cracked, a flash of irritation crossing her face. But she recovered quickly, her smile tight. "Vanessa and I have a professional relationship, nothing more. Any implications beyond that are… unfounded."
Michael's expression hardened, his patience wearing thin. "We're not here to play games, Caroline. Either you cooperate with us, or we'll make sure every one of your business dealings is exposed. And trust me, Vanessa won't be able to protect you when the truth comes out."
