The penthouse was eerily quiet as Ava stood at the window, watching the city lights flicker like distant stars. The board’s decision to suspend Richard had sent shockwaves through Carter Industries, and the fallout was far from over. Liam entered the room, his tie loosened, his expression unreadable. He didn’t speak as he joined her, his presence a silent anchor in the storm.
Ava broke the silence first. “Do you think he’ll fight back?”
Liam’s voice was low, his gaze fixed on the skyline. “He’ll try.”
Ava’s fingers curled into her palms. “And if he does?”
Liam’s smirk was sharp, but his eyes were weary. “Then we’ll be ready.”
Ava exhaled, her breath fogging the glass. “It’s not over, is it?”
Liam’s voice was rough. “No. But we’ve won the first battle.”
Ava turned to face him, her vo
