CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTEEN - Gaining Victor’s Trust

"Son? I heard there was some trouble. Is everything alright?" Mason sighed, gesturing for his father to enter. "Not really. Our investors are in a panic over rumors of mismanagement. I can't figure out where it's coming from." Victor's brow furrowed as he took a seat across from Mason. "That's terrible. Do you have any leads?" Mason shook his head. "Nothing concrete. It's like the rumors appeared out of thin air." Victor leaned forward, his voice low and conspiratorial. "You know, son, in my experience, these things often come from within. Have you considered that someone on your team might be... less than loyal?" Mason's eyes widened. "You think one of my people is behind this?" Victor held up his hands. "I'm not accusing anyone. I'm just saying, it's worth considering all possibilities." Mason nodded slowly, the seed of doubt taking root. "You might be right. I'll have to look into it." As they continued to discuss potential strategies, neither man noticed Claire lingering ju