CHAPTER SIXTY-ONE - Resurfacing Doubts

Unable to stand the confines of her apartment any longer, Claire decided to go for a walk. As she stepped outside, she immediately regretted her decision. A photographer who had been lurking nearby started snapping pictures. "Ms. Langford! Any comment on your involvement in the Universe X scandal?" he called out. Claire quickened her pace, keeping her head down. "No comment," she muttered, her cheeks burning with a mix of anger and embarrassment. She ducked into a nearby coffee shop, seeking refuge from the prying eyes and invasive questions. As she waited in line, she overheard two women talking behind her. "Did you see the latest about that Universe X lawsuit?" one of them said. "Apparently, the CEO's girlfriend might be involved somehow." "No way!" her friend replied. "I bet she was planted there to steal the software. These tech companies will do anything for an edge." Claire's hands shook as she ordered her coffee. She wanted to turn around and defend herself, to tell them h