Beneath the Gilded Veil

of market collapses, political scandals, and celebrity rumors. It all didn't matter. Not with his thoughts already fixed on what to do next. Beside the lap

im to know that he would strike back quickly. He carefully sowed the seeds of Sebastian's corruption in the

and hit send. Now th

s conflict for years, and this was the first blow. A low blow, but one that would make Sebastian take center stage. Leani

e accounts, Archer watched. The firestorm grew swiftly, dominating conversations for hours at a time. The story went viral

ware of the mayhe

ll too familiar, flashed on his phone's caller ID as it buzzed. After

a calm and collected manner.

er, allowing a pause

me?" Sebastian's haughtiness was evident in his voice. "I've

d himself to be composed. "I haven't ove

line came a quiet laugh.

muscles tensed even more. Although he had anticipated reprisals, there was somet

than only covering. He

ing Sebastian's business practices being broadcast on all channels, and she had watched the news coverage develop in real time. Her fingers pr

ps. He was always in control and moved with purpose. Elena could feel the tightness

e him and said, "

raised an eyebrow. Concerning the news? Put it out of your m

s that accurate? The fund

ry not to let this bother you. You've heard me explain this before. It's all lawful a

epped backward. "You failed

have to explain myself to you, and I don't need to explain myself t

eelings. She was no longer sure what to believe. But it was evid

over his notes and planning his next move. He cast a fur

frame with a blank expression on her face. Without waiting for an invitation, she

a seat by the window, "

that was the plan," an

s focused on you, though, and that's not necessarily a goo

and leaned against the w

s for you. Sebastian's close friend is eager to assist you. Don

cowled.

"This guy has access to files that might destroy Sebastian

eavy on his mind. He would be heading

e. Archer's eyes darted to the shadows as he tightened his collar around his neck. He wasn't the kind to

enance. With careful and unhurried movements, they approached him. The hand of Arc

e, Archer whispere

oked over the papers within. These were just what he needed-evidence of Sebastian's illicit activity,

he could respond. Sebastian is aware that you are pur

heart froze.

crucial that you move swiftl

e in his hands, Archer stood by himself as the figure vanish