Three Months Later.
Zurich, Switzerland.
The penthouse boardroom of the newly christened Kingsley-Laurent Tower overlooked the glass skyscrapers of Zurich's financial district. Rain washed softly against the triple-pane windows, but inside, the atmosphere was warm, luxurious, and intensely focused.
Standing at the head of the dark marble conference table was Sophia.
At four months pregnant, her white silk blouse showed a slight, beautiful bump, but her presence was more formidable than ever. Across the table sat six senior directors of the European Energy Board, their expressions tense as they looked at the digital acquisition proposal projected on the glass wall.
"The terms are non-negotiable," Sophia said, her voice smooth, calm, and filled with effortless authority. "Vanguard-Laure
