?Chapter 426:


    Maia paused, her brows knitting in thought. “Rx. If Cooper Group decides to hit back, they won’t charge in guns zing. They’ll act from the shadows, quietly. But that’s exactly why we shouldy a trap — give them a tempting opening, and let them reveal themselves.”


    Pattie blinked in confusion. “Huh?”


    A sly smile curved Maia’s lips. She recounted Kolton’s carefully chosen words at the party — his polished reassurances and charm, served up like a peace offering.


    “But let’s not kid ourselves,” Maia said, her voice steady. “That was damage control, not a promise. Counting on a handshake deal with Kolton? That’s like trying to hold water in your hands. Cooper Group will strike back. So why not bait them with a weakness — one we’ve crafted, one we can predict and control?”


    The n was risky, yes. But then again, high rewards often walk hand in hand with high stakes.


    The stormier the sea, the richer the treasure.


    The acquisition of Aurora Apparel Company, a venerable brand under the Cooper Group’s umbre, by MCN in this manner was bound to deal a severe blow to Kolton. And if they yed their next cards right, they could go further: dig up leverage, cast Kolton in the unforgiving light of scandal, and expose the cracks in his carefully curated persona. And once Kolton’s pedestal crumbled, the path would be clear for Chris to rise in his ce.


    Pattie’s eyes lit up in realization. She pped her hands together, energized. “I see it now! Draw them out, aim for their weak spot, and then let public opinion do the rest — bring Kolton crashing down!”


    The takeover of Aurora Apparel by MCN dominated the news cycle, capturing widespread attention by midday.


    The entire sector was rattled. Business circles throughout Wront were left reeling.


    ???????? ???????? ?????????? ???????????????? ???? g????????ν??????．??????


    Later that day, Cooper Group hosted a media briefing, stating that the acquisition was part of a broader alliance between themselves and MCN.


    Still, they conveniently omitted any reference to the “one-dor purchase” story.


    The events that unfolded during that evening’s cocktail gathering were thoroughly suppressed by Cooper Group. Only those privy to the inside story understood the magnitude of the situation.


    Neither Maia nor Kolton were individuals to be underestimated.


    Ultimately, profit reigned supreme.


    Before long, MCN’s prestige soared. An endless stream of partners flocked to their door, eager to work together, with deals pouring in continuously.


    After Maia handed Pattie the sketches she produced during the cocktail event, she exited with quiet elegance. Her strategy was to mask her skill and fame. She had no intention of lingering at thepany for public rtions duties. Her mind was already on her next ambition.


    As Maia settled into her car, a call from Zoey came through. “Maia, I don’t care what method you use — just make Rnd leave for Drakmire immediately!”


    Maia blinked in confusion. It had been ages since Zoey had sounded so unsettled. What had Rnd done to spark her anger?


    Regardless, an order from Zoey was not something that Maia should ask about.


    “Got it,” she replied smoothly.


    Zoey’s voice grew gentler. “Also, how are things going with Chris?”


    Maia stiffened slightly, memories of their previous night’s kisses surfacing, but she yed dumb. “What do you mean?”


    Zoey shot back, “Stop pretending! Hasn’t he already swept you off your feet? Or have you fallen for him first?”


    Maia was left speechless. Did it even matter who sumbed first? Was there a difference?


    .


    .


    .