CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY - A New Chapter: Redefining Family Bonds

"How could you do this, Mom?" Max's voice was filled with a mixture of hurt and fury. "Calling a board meeting behind my back? Trying to merge with Sinclair Industries without even consulting me?" "Max, darling, you're overreacting," Evelyn's voice was sickly sweet, dripping with condescension. "I'm only doing what's best for the company – for our family." "Best for the company?" Max scoffed. "Or best for your own agenda?" Ava peered around the corner, seeing Max and Evelyn locked in a heated argument outside the boardroom. For the first time, Max was openly challenging his mother, demanding explanations for her recent behavior. Ava hesitated, not wanting to interrupt this long-overdue confrontation. "I don't know what you're talking about," Evelyn said, her voice taking on a defensive edge. "Oh, really?" Max countered. "Then let's talk about the manipulated schedules, shall we? The way you've been orchestrating my every move for months now." Evelyn waved a dismissive hand. "I wa