The markets opened strong on Monday.
Investor confidence had climbed steadily since the article. The acquisition numbers were stabilizing. Internal resistance was quieting.
Visibility had not weakened me.
It had fortified my position.
At ten thirty, Adrian called for a press conference.
Unscheduled.
High priority.
I knew immediately what it was about.
The speculation had grown louder over the weekend. Photographs of us entering the same events. Subtle body language analysis. Anonymous sources suggesting favoritism.
Whispers evolve into narratives if left unattended.
By noon, the press room was filled.
Cameras. Reporters. Analysts.
I stood backstage beside Adrian.
“You are certain,” he asked quietly.
“Yes.”
“This changes the scrutiny level.”
“I am aware.”
He studied me care
