[Bella: Enough already! You guys are being so childish.
]
The moment Bella sent the message, both brothers immediately fell silent, ceasing their playful banter.
[Bella: Justin is investigating us because he’s likely suspicious of Axel’s identity.
Axel has defended me twice, and Justin must have realized that Asher wouldn’t act that way.
]
Bella’s eyes, usually bright and full of energy, now darkened as she swirled the red wine in her glass, her thoughts heavy.
[Bella: In that case, there’s no point in hiding it anymore.
I’ll give him the answer he’s looking for.
]
The weekend arrived in the blink of an eye.
Under public pressure, Gold Corporation was forced to hold a press conference at a five-star hotel, inviting a crowd of reporters.
Though Gold Corporation was a small local enterprise with minimal industry influence, the company suddenly found itself thrust into the spotlight after Rosalind announced her marriage to Justin, garnering unprecedented attention.
A black Maybach was parked across from the hotel’s entrance.
Justin sat inside, watching the live broadcast of the press conference on his iPad.
“Mr.
Salvador, I think the chairman has been subtly hinting that you should assist the Gold family over the past few days,” Ian said with concern.
“If you continue opposing the chairman, it might affect your relationship with him.
I’m afraid Madam Shannon might use this opportunity to defame you again.
”
“I couldn’t care less if she does.
I won’t help the Gold family,” Justin responded indifferently, his face cold.
“My father and I have never had a close relationship, so nothing will change.
”
Ian sighed in relief, understanding that Justin had made his stance clear.
Despite his position in the Salvador family, Justin had always been isolated, with no one to confide in.
The press conference began shortly after.
Zeke, clad in a black suit, walked onto the stage with his head held high, though his posture betrayed his annoyance at having to host the event.
“As you all know, Gold Corporation operates 32 Alia Furniture stores in Savrow and more than 400 stores nationwide.
Our company has always maintained a strong reputation.
The negative news surrounding us is the result of a malicious smear campaign aimed at tarnishing our image.
”
Ian scoffed at the screen.
“Mr.
Gold is something else.
Despite his company’s severe quality issues, he still stands there confidently.
The nerve!”
Justin said nothing, his brow furrowed in deep thought.
Just then, a reporter spoke up with a pointed question.
“But wasn’t KS World Hotel the first to expose Alia Furniture’s quality issues? Their reputation is stellar, and they’ve never defamed another company in their decades of operation.
Doesn’t this imply that the problem with Alia Furniture is more than just a smear?”
Zeke’s expression darkened instantly.
“Alia Furniture has been in business for over ten years.
I’m devastated that something like this is happening now.
”
A reporter pressed further.
“So, are you admitting there’s a quality issue with your products? I believe a serious complaint was filed at the beginning of last year.
I’m sure many of you recall that incident.
”
The mention of the complaint triggered the reporters’ memories.
Zeke’s face turned a shade darker as his fists clenched in anger.
In an underground parking lot, Bella sat in a supercar, watching the live broadcast on her phone.
A satisfied smile curled at the edges of her lips.
No one could have guessed that Bella had arranged for the reporter to attend the press conference with carefully crafted questions meant to expose the truth.
“In the two years since Zeke took office as Gold Corporation’s president, he’s been reckless, indulging in his wealth while his company’s problems pile up.
His family’s fortune is running dry.
”
Steven chuckled in disdain.
“I didn’t expect him to be so bold, thinking he could blatantly lie at the press conference.
He really believes no one has anything on him, huh?”
“He thought he had a trump card up his sleeve.