Chapter 27

Ethan Blackwood's patience had reached its limit.

"Get to the point. What's the problem?"

"Our analysis shows public sentiment has shifted dramatically. The citizens are outraged over how Vivian Lockhart was treated."

"If you could publicly reconcile with Mrs. Lockhart—show the world you've made amends—we might salvage your reputation," Rachel suggested, avoiding his piercing gaze.

She knew her boss too well. Pride was his armor. To the world, he was Newport City’s untouchable king. Now they expected him to kneel before the woman he’d cast aside?

Impossible.

"No." His refusal was absolute. "If they want to waste their time gossiping, let them."

A cold smirk curled his lips. "They’re delusional if they think they can touch Blackwood Group."

Blackwood Group’s empire spanned industries—real estate, tech, luxury brands, even defense contracts. Public outrage wouldn’t topple them.

"Flood the platforms with paid moderators. Delete every post about that livestream," he commanded. "You have seventy-two hours. I don’t care how it’s done."

Rachel stifled a sigh. "We’ll allocate more PR funds. But sir, this won’t address the root—"

"Enough."

As she turned to leave, his voice halted her.

"Yes, Mr. Blackwood?"

He shoved his coffee cup forward, disgust twisting his features. "What did you do to this? It tastes like sludge."

Coffee was his ritual. Though no connoisseur, he knew quality. This wasn’t it.

"The beans changed," Rachel admitted.

"Then change them back."

"That’s... not possible. Mrs. Lockhart supplied them personally. She’d bring a fresh batch weekly."

A beat of silence.

"Vivian did that?"

Rachel seized her chance. "For years. The cakes you praised? The ashtray you refuse to replace? All from her."

A nervous laugh escaped her. "The staff called her 'Lady Grace.' She never took credit."

Ethan’s gaze flickered to the silver ashtray, the velvet cushion by the window—subtle touches he’d never questioned.

His chest tightened.

"Sir, I’ll say this even if you fire me. She loved you. You shouldn’t have humiliated her."

Silence.

Rachel hesitated, then added, "I’m actually a moderator for 'Lockhart’s Secret Heart'—your biggest fan forum. There’s this fanfic series that—"

"Leave."

Alone, Ethan stared at his screen. Against his better judgment, he searched the forum.

The top post froze him mid-scroll.