Unmasking the Game

Elara’s hands trembled as she set down the tablet. The vicious lies in the article had shaken her to her core, but a steely courage was beginning to form within her. She couldn’t—wouldn’t—let them destroy her like this.

A soft knock on her door startled her. “Come in,” she called, quickly composing herself.

Aiden entered, his face a mask of concern. “Mrs. Blackwood! I’ve just received word from Mr. Blackwood. He’s calling an emergency press conference to address the article.”

Elara nodded, a plan forming in her mind. “Thank you, Aiden. Please have the car ready in fifteen minutes.”

As Aiden left, Elara moved quickly, gathering her thoughts and preparing herself for what was to come.

Across town, Damian stood before a sea of flashing cameras and shouting reporters. His face was a mask of calm, but inside, he was seething with anger—at his mother, at the press, and at the situation he found himself in.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, his voice steady and authoritative. “I stand before