ver had made his outrageous demand, and every possible plan to reach Aidan Cromwell felt like chasing shadows. Aidan wasn’t just any businessman—he was a titan, commanding two massive companies: the Emerald Group and the Cromwell Conglomerate, the latter inherited from his late father. Access to him was a fortress guarded by layers of assistants, managers, and security. But Matheson had no choice. He exhaled sharply, dialed the number he’d found, and braced himself. The line connected after two rings, and a clipped, professional voice answered. “This is Clara, Mr. Cromwell’s assistant. How may I help you?” Matheson forced himself to sound confident. “Good afternoon, Clara. My name is Michael Hayes, and I’m requesting a meeting with Mr. Cromwell.” There was a brief pause, the faint soun

