SIXTY FIVE

I looked at the cameras, the men and women all gathered around, each one fishing for a story to sell. The flashes of the cameras were relentless, but I was completely zoned out, my mind storming with thoughts about how the kids must be feeling at school at this moment.

A reporter's voice cut through my daze, bringing me back to reality. "Ma'am, do you deny 'Z Real Estate's' fraud allegation charges?"

I took a deep breath, steeling myself. "Look, everyone," I began, my voice steady despite the chaos around me, "I know you all want a story, but rest assured, my company scamming people and giving them undervalued properties with bad infrastructures that could cause harm isn't one of them."

I paused, making sure to meet the eyes of the reporters. "This woman's lawsuit, I am sure, is a misunderstanding. I will make sure the truth prevails."

The barrage of questions continued, but I maintained my composure, refusing to be rattled. Inside, my thoughts were still a whirl of worry for Zenith a