Chapter 148
Today’s tender meeting felt like the culmination of weeks of relentless work. Zane and I had burned the midnight oil for countless nights, fine–tuning every aspect of our proposal. We couldn’t afford any slip–ups–not when the stakes were this high.
“This is it,” I muttered under my breath as we approached the venue.
Zane, walking beside me, adjusted his tie with his usual calm demeanor. “Don’t worry. We’ve got this.”
The venue was alive with energy, a constant hum of conversation and movement filling the air. People streamed in steadily, most of them the elite of the business world, their sharp suits and designer outfits exuding power and precision.
I could feel the weight of the moment as I stepped inside, my heels clicking softly against the polished marble floor.
I had chosen my outfit carefully, it was a tailored charcoal–gray pantsuit that fit me like a glove. The blazer was cinched perfectly at the waist, giving me a strong yet feminine silhouette, while the crisp white blouse underneath added a touch of sophistication.
A simple silver pendant rested at my collarbone, catching the light just enough to be noticed without being flashy.
My black stilettos gave me the extra height I needed to meet the stares of those sizing me up, while my hair, pulled into a sleek low bun, kept me looking composed and professional.
As I moved through the room, I noticed heads turning. Some were subtle glances; others were more overt, their eyes flickering between me and Zane, who walked confidently at my side. Let them stare, I thought to myself. I wasn’t here to blend in.
I was here to dominate.
I scanned the crowd, spotting familiar faces.
Then I saw him. Arman.
”
The corner of my mouth twitched into a smirk as I sauntered toward him. “Long time no see, brother,” I said mockingly.
Aman turned, his expression shifting from surprise to something darker and gloomy, almost
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esentful. He stepped closer, lowering his voice just enough to remain civil in the crowd.
You shouldn’t be here. This Isn’t a playground for children playing house.” His lips curled into a neer. “You’re out of your depth. Now go back immediately and don’t disgrace Moon Shadow here.”
The sting of his words barely had time to register before Zane appeared at my side, like a shadow naterializing in the light. His presence commanded immediate attention. A hush fell over the hearby group as gasps of recognition rippled through the crowd.
It’s him!” someone whispered.
Jane, who by now one of the most influential figures in biotechnology sector, was a magnet for attention. Over the years, his patents and groundbreaking research had sent stock prices in the ndustry skyrocketing, making him a sought–after ally and an intimidating opponent.
Arman’s sneer faltered as Zane stood next to me, his piercing gaze scanning the room before resting on me. “Everything ready, boss?” he asked, his tone laced with respect.
The word “boss” echoed “Ike a thunderclap in the crowd. A wave of disbelief washed over the room as eyes darted between me and Zane. Whispers buzzed through the air.
Boss?”
Wait, does that mean….?”
“She’s the founder of East World Lumora Industries?”
It was no secret that Zane had turned down offers from some of the most powerful corporations. Instead, he had aligned himself with a smaller, virtually unknown startup: my company, East World Lumora Industries.
Rumors had swirled, but hearing him address me as “boss” silenced any doubts,
Arman’s face twisted in disbelief. “Lumora Industries… is that your company?”
I didn’t answer immediately. Let him stew in his confusion. Instead, I exchanged a glance with Zane, who nodded subtly, his posture as unwavering as ever.
Arman’s disbelief quickly morphed into anger. He jabbed a finger toward me. “You have no right to be here. Withdraw from this bidding immediately!”
His voice was sharp enough to turn heads. He stepped closer, lowering his tone but not his
aggression.
“The company behind me is Moon Shadow. You have no business interfering. You married into Iron Claw; you’ve severed ties with Moon Shadow. Don’t think for a second you can drag us down with
you.”
The mention of my past hit like a dart aimed at old wounds, but I refused to flinch.
Arman continued, his voice laced with bitterness. “After my accident, after everything, I’ve worked tirelessly to regain my footing. This is my last chance, and I won’t let you ruin it.”
I tilted my head, allowing a small smile to play on my lips.
“Oh, Arman, always so dramatic.”
