Chapter 26: Turning the Tables

Isabella Carter didn't believe in losing. Not to anyone—especially not to Alexander Blackwood.

The moment she saw the headlines announcing Everton Maritime's exclusive deal with Blackwood Enterprises, she knew he hadn't just countered her move—he had tried to crush her.

But she wasn't the type to break.

She was the type to strike back harder.

Carter Consulting – A New Strategy

In the conference room, Isabella stood before a screen filled with Blackwood Enterprises' biggest investors.

"We're not going after his clients anymore," she declared. "We're going after his foundation."

Philip raised an eyebrow. "You mean… his investors?"

Isabella smirked. "Exactly. If we can make them question his leadership, his company's stock will take a hit. Investors don't stay where there's uncertainty."

Claire leaned forward, intrigued. "And how do we do that?"

Isabella tapped the screen, pulling up financial reports, legal filings, and internal rumors from corporate insiders.

"We expose his weaknesses. His exclusive contracts might look like a win, but they limit flexibility and make investors nervous. We make sure they know that."

Philip exhaled. "You're playing a dangerous game."

She met his gaze, fire burning in her eyes. "So is he."

Blackwood Enterprises – The Warning

Alexander was in the middle of a strategy meeting when Lily walked in, her expression unreadable.

"You need to see this," she said, placing a report on his desk.

He glanced at it—then frowned.

Investor concerns. Market instability rumors. Speculation about his long-term strategy.

His jaw clenched. Isabella.

She wasn't just fighting back. She was going straight for his empire.

Lily crossed her arms. "She's not trying to take your clients anymore. She's trying to make your investors lose faith in you."

Alexander's smirk was cold. "Smart."

But not smart enough.

He leaned back, his mind already working. If Isabella thought she could shake his foundation, she was about to learn exactly how unshakable he was.

Because this wasn't just about business anymore.

It was personal.

And he would make sure she felt every bit of the war she had just declared.