The news broadcast kept playing, even though Uncle Li had muted the sound. The images rolled on, relentless, like a public autopsy of Emily's life.
Her college graduation photo.
Her father's perp walk in handcuffs.
Headlines from ten years ago screaming fraud and betrayal.
And worst of all—pictures of her and Alexander together.
Leaving the Monaco gala.
Boarding his jet.
Walking hand in hand through the crowded streets of Hong Kong.
The headlines practically wrote themselves:
"Like Father, Like Daughter: Chen's Daughter Snares Billionaire Drake."
"Gold-Digger or Con Artist? Emily Chen's Calculated Rise to Alexander Drake's Bed."
"Drake Industries in Freefall as CEO's Mystery Woman Revealed to be Fraudster's Spawn."
On Uncle Li's laptop, a dozen tabs blazed open. Each headline more vicious than the last. Social media drowning in conspiracy theories. Financial analysts calling Alexander's judgment into question. Competitors circling like sharks scenting blood.
