Chapter 20: A Dangerous Game

The moment Isabella stepped into the private dining room with Victor Harrington, she knew she had won this round. But she also knew Alexander Blackwood wouldn't let it go.

Victor took a seat, signaling for a waiter. "You made quite the bold accusation back there, Ms. Carter."

She met his gaze steadily. "Because it was the truth."

Victor chuckled, intrigued. "Then tell me—why should I choose Titan Freight despite the pressure Blackwood is putting on them?"

Isabella leaned forward. "Because Blackwood wouldn't waste his time trying to crush them if they weren't a threat to his empire. The fact that he's working this hard to shut us down proves that Titan Freight is the right investment."

Victor's eyes gleamed with amusement. "You play the game well."

Isabella smirked. "I play to win."

Meanwhile…

Alexander watched from a distance as Isabella and Victor continued their discussion.

Lily approached cautiously. "Do we make a move?"

Alexander took a slow sip of whiskey, his mind calculating. Isabella had outplayed him tonight, but this wasn't over.

"No," he said finally. "Let her think she's won."

Lily frowned. "Sir?"

Alexander smirked, his gaze locked on Isabella. "Because when she least expects it, I'll take everything from her."

The Storm Ahead

As Isabella finalized her pitch to Victor, she could feel the shift—he was leaning toward her offer.

But in the back of her mind, she knew one thing for certain.

Alexander Blackwood never lost twice.

And the next move he made would be more dangerous than anything before.

She had won the battle.

But the war was just beginning.