Chapter 09 Confidential Files

For the next couple of weeks.

Lucas came to see me twice more.

To confirm several big decisions set to be announced at the press conference.

At the last minute, as if struck by a sudden thought, he handed me a document:

"The massive tourism project, still under wraps, is in direct collaboration with New York City.

You should break the news at the press release – it will be a great exclusive for you."

I paused before accepting the papers, murmuring a quiet thanks.

Big Joe was onto it, nudging me persistently:

"Seems like Mr. Xavier has taken a liking to you. Perhaps gently bring up how Nicole has been pushing you down?"

While focused on refining my script, I managed a small smile, "No need."

"Why would he trouble his fiancée for a journalist he barely knows?"

The day of the press conference arrived.

The venue was packed.

Lucas's designated spot at the center was conspicuously empty.

In the midst of the flashing lights, I announced the upcoming strategic partnerships of Xavier Luxury Group.

Suddenly, a reporter stood up and accused me loudly, "Where did you get this confidential information? You stole it?"

My response was cool and collected, "My cooperation with Xavier Luxury Group is entirely legitimate and done through official channels."

"Righteous? You've got to be kidding me! You think you can just sleep your way to the top and have the audacity to talk about ethics?" His voice boomed with accusation, "And I've got proof!"

The room fell silent as a figure stepped onto the stage.

It was Nicole Zimmerman.

Her eyes locked on to me, and she let out a soft sigh.

"Madeline Thompson, it's no wonder you were charmed by Lucas. You're just a small-time journalist after all."

"I would have spared you some dignity, but clearly, you need things spelled out before you can take a hint."

As she spoke, the giant screen behind her switched from the PowerPoint presentation to a set of explicit photos.

Photos of me.

"You sent him these pictures, showing up at his hotel room in the middle of the night in your nightie, not to mention the security footage of you and your boss checking into a hotel room."

With each of her words, the images on the screen changed again.

There I was, at the dimly lit hotel entrance, walking side by side with my boss.

"The likes of you—"

Before she could finish, the murmur of the shocked audience erupted as the main doors of the hall swung open.

In walked Lucas, impeccably dressed, his piercing gaze sweeping through the crowd.

His eyes moved over me without a hint of pause, and my heart sank.

Under the glaring spotlight and the scrutiny of everyone’s gaze, my situation felt like a public execution.

The whisperings grew louder.

"To think a journalist would stoop so low."

"She's despicable, a disgrace."

"Zero professional ethics. She should be blacklisted!"

I didn't look at anyone; my eyes were fixed on Lucas.

As he turned to Nicole, his voice was calm, "What did you just say?"

Tears welled up in Nicole's eyes, but none fell.

"Lucas, she deceived you," she began.

"She pretended to be an interview journalist to get close to you, all to steal confidential material harmful to the entire Xavier Luxury Group."

"Even this opportunity to host the release, she got it through unsavory means!"

Lucas paused, his gaze returning to me. "Do you have anything to say?"