BETRAYAL IN THE BOARDROOM
The atmosphere inside the boardroom was suffocating.
Elara sat at the long glass table, fingers clasped tightly in her lap. Around her were the investors and executives who had once applauded her success.
Now, their eyes held doubt.
"We've all seen the article," one board member said stiffly.
"These accusations are… concerning."
Elara inhaled slowly.
"They're lies. Fabricated documents. A smear campaign."
Another man scoffed.
"Then explain why the transfer records match Lucien Blackwood's accounts."
Lucien leaned forward sharply.
"Because they were forged. My finance team already confirmed it."
A tense silence followed.
---
The Snake Reveals Itself
Suddenly, Victor Hale, one of the senior board members, cleared his throat.
"Perhaps," he said calmly, "Elara isn't being entirely honest."
Elara stared at him.
"Victor… you were the first person who believed in me."
He shrugged.
"Business isn't about loyalty. It's about risk management."
Her heart shattered.
"You leaked the documents," she whispered.
Victor didn't deny it.
"Serena offered protection. And money," he said.
"I simply chose the winning side."
Lucien stood up so fast his chair scraped the floor.
"You sold your soul," he growled.
Victor smirked.
"You'll thank me later when you realize this company would've failed anyway."
---
Elara's Strength
Elara rose slowly, her eyes blazing.
"You're wrong."
She turned on the screen behind her.
"I anticipated betrayal."
Files appeared.
"Here's proof the documents were edited. Here's Serena's number linked to Victor's phone. Here's the bribe transfers."
The room erupted in gasps.
Victor turned pale.
"You—how—"
"I learned to protect myself," Elara said coldly.
"No more blind trust."
---
Justice Strikes
Security entered the room.
"Victor Hale," one guard said,
"you're under investigation for corporate sabotage."
Victor was dragged out, screaming.
"You'll regret this!"
Elara didn't flinch.
---
Lucien's Apology
After the chaos, Lucien pulled Elara aside.
"I'm sorry," he said quietly.
"My past keeps chasing us."
She softened.
"You're fighting for us now. That's what matters."
He took her hand gently.
"I'll spend the rest of my life proving I deserve you."
---
Serena's Rage
In prison, Serena smashed her phone against the wall.
"Useless idiot!" she screamed.
Her plan had failed.
But her eyes darkened.
"This isn't over."