Evans watched the scene silently. A faint glint flashed through his eyes, something like doubt, but he quickly buried it deep within his heart.
When Ashley finally seemed calm, Mr. Smith spoke again, his tone measured and cold.
"Lena still hasn't cut me off," he said. "That means she still sees me as her father. All I need to do is pretend, go to her, and apologize. The moment I gain her sympathy and forgiveness, she'll lower her guard, and that's when we strike."
Everyone nodded in agreement. It was seamless. Clean. The easiest way to deal with Lena without raising suspicion.
"We'll carry out the plan at the fundraiser," Mr. Smith continued. "Mr. Black's attention will be elsewhere. It's the perfect setting, no traces leading back to us. I'll get us in. That's where we spike her drink."
He paused briefly, his gaze sweeping across the room.
