Cameras flashed and reporters shouted as the public apology aired, the humiliation of Luca’s company now a lead story on every screen. The backlash hit like a tidal wave; if Luca didn’t find a way out soon, his empire would crumble.
On the drive back, Anthony’s knuckles were white against the steering wheel. He kept stealing glances at Anna. She stared out the window, her silhouette frozen and silent. She had severed the tie with her mother today—the woman she’d known her entire life. After all Anna’s sacrifices, being publicly denied was the final, jagged straw. Anthony reached over and covered her hand with his. Anna jumped slightly, snapping out of her daze. She looked at him, but his eyes remained fixed on the road. She squeezed his arm and managed a small, fragile smile. He was the o
