333: Tactical Retreat

Alex stood silently as the last of the reporters was escorted away, the chaotic echoes of questions and camera clicks fading into the distance. The air, once thick with accusations and revelations, now settled into a tense calm. Beside him, Michelle's face showed traces of relief mixed with lingering agitation, while Lillian appeared outright distressed. Turning to face Lillian, Alex’s expression was unreadable. "You should have been more prepared for this. Emma is many things, but predictable isn’t one of them. You underestimated her, and now you're paying the price." Lillian, her face pale, nodded slightly, her usual defiance subdued. "I didn't think she'd go this far. She had everything lined up—documents, responses, even the media's attention. It's like she was playing chess and we were just pieces." Alex placed a gentle hand on Lillian’s shoulder, his gaze firm yet not without sympathy. "This isn’t just about being outmaneuvered today. It’s a lesson in foresight and str