JASMINE'S POV
"We need to talk to the board," I said after a few moments. "If I confront Vale directly, he'll deny everything. But if I show them the files, let them read the will, the contracts… they'll have no choice but to back off."
Aiden didn't move from where he stood. "You want to confront them today?"
"Not yet." I leaned back in my chair. "But I want a list. Every board member Vale's brought in over the last ten years. Who replaced who. Who owes him. Who's loyal to him. Who's vulnerable."
"You're building a war room," Aiden said, eyes narrowing slightly.
I looked at him. "No. I'm building a trap."
He smirked. "And people call me dangerous."
"Good. Let them," I replied. "Fear makes people hesitate. And hesitation buys us time."
Aiden crossed his arms and nodded, visibly approving. But there was something in his eyes, something simmering just under the surface. I couldn't name it. Yet.
A soft knock made us both turn.
