Isabella didn't waste time. If Alexander Blackwood thought he could take what was hers and get away with it, he was about to learn a very painful lesson.
She spent the next twelve hours digging through every piece of information she had on Blackwood Enterprises. Every active deal, every pending project, every corporate partnership—anything that could be used against him.
By midnight, she had found her target.
Blackwood's European Expansion Project.
It was one of Alexander's biggest upcoming moves—a massive merger with Vanguard Logistics, the company responsible for over 40% of Europe's high-value shipments. If Alexander secured the deal, it would cement his dominance in the international market.
But if he lost it?
It would be a devastating blow.
The Next Morning – Carter Consulting HQ
Claire entered Isabella's office with a folder in hand. "I did some digging. Vanguard's CEO, Philip Langston, has been hesitant to sign the deal. He's worried that Blackwood's aggressive business model won't align with their long-term vision."
Isabella's lips curled. "Then we give him an alternative."
Claire hesitated. "You're going to steal the deal?"
Isabella leaned back in her chair, a gleam in her eyes. "Blackwood started this. I'm just finishing it."
She reached for her phone and dialed a number.
After two rings, a deep British voice answered.
"Philip Langston speaking."
"Mr. Langston," Isabella said smoothly. "This is Isabella Carter. I believe we have a lot to discuss."
Two Days Later – Blackwood Enterprises
Alexander Blackwood had never lost a deal he wanted.
So when he walked into his office and saw a rejection letter from Vanguard Logistics, something dark and lethal stirred inside him.
His jaw clenched as he scanned the email.
After careful consideration, we have decided to move forward with an alternative partnership better suited to our company's long-term strategy. We appreciate your proposal, but at this time, we believe that Carter Consulting provides the most sustainable vision for our future.
Carter.
Isabella.
A slow, dangerous smirk curled on Alexander's lips as he leaned back in his chair.
"Well played, Carter."
But if she thought this was over, she was about to regret underestimating him.
Because now?
Now, it was personal.