Chapter 16: The Counterstrike

The city skyline was bathed in golden hues as Alexander Blackwood stood by the window of his penthouse, his mind razor-focused. The Titan Freight deal had shifted the power dynamic, and Isabella had gained the upper hand.

But not for long.

His phone vibrated. Ethan Reed.

"What did you find?" Alexander asked without preamble.

Ethan's voice was tense. "Titan Freight's deal with Carter Consulting is solid, but there's one vulnerability—Titan is financially stretched thin after their latest expansion. If their funding wavers, they'll be forced to delay integration."

Alexander smirked. "And who holds their largest loan?"

"Riverton Bank," Ethan replied. "And guess who has a strong relationship with Riverton's board?"

Alexander's smirk widened. "Me."

Carter Consulting – The First Blow

The first sign of trouble came the next morning. Isabella was reviewing the final paperwork when Claire stormed into her office, her face pale.

"You're not going to like this," Claire said, dropping a folder onto the desk.

Isabella skimmed the contents, her stomach tightening. Riverton Bank had just announced a 'strategic review' of Titan Freight's loan.

"This isn't a coincidence," Isabella muttered. "This is Blackwood."

Claire nodded. "If Riverton pulls their funding, Titan will be forced to pause integration—and that means our deal is in jeopardy."

Isabella inhaled sharply. Alexander was already moving.

She had expected retaliation, but not this fast. Not this precise.

She picked up her phone and dialed a number.

"Philip," she said when Langston answered. "We need to meet. Now."

Blackwood Enterprises – A Silent Victory

Alexander leaned back in his chair as Lily handed him a fresh report.

"It's working," she said. "Riverton is already reconsidering their loan to Titan Freight. Within forty-eight hours, Titan could be in financial limbo."

Alexander nodded, satisfaction humming in his veins. Carter had played her hand well, but she had forgotten one thing—he controlled more than just companies. He controlled the people behind them.

He picked up his glass of whiskey, swirling the liquid slowly. "Now," he said, "let's see how Isabella handles being backed into a corner."

Because one thing was certain—she wouldn't go down without a fight.

And neither would he.