The news spread quickly the next morning.
Laurent Group Acquires Royal Crest Hotel Chain
Kingsley Group’s Corporate Partner Now Under New Ownership
Inside Kingsley Group headquarters, the atmosphere was colder than usual.
Adrian Kingsley sat in his office, reading the report for the third time. The numbers were clear—and so was the message.
Elena Laurent had taken another piece of his network.
He placed the file down and rubbed his temple.
“She’s doing this deliberately.”
A knock sounded.
“Come in.”
Daniel Carter, his longtime advisor, stepped inside.
“You’ve seen the news,” Daniel said.
Adrian nodded. “She bought Royal Crest.”
Daniel sat across from him.
“That chain hosts most of our international meetings.”
“I know.”
Daniel studied him.
“You’re not worried about the busi
