CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FOUR – PREPARE FOR WAR

The battle lines had been drawn, and the war for dominance over New York's business landscape was only just beginning. Charlotte felt a fire ignite within her, a resolve to protect her family and fight for their rightful place. The von Beckers had underestimated the Prestons, and Charlotte knew, with unwavering certainty, that they would live to regret that mistake. The sleek, glass-walled boardroom of Preston Enterprises was a bastion of power and influence, its polished surfaces reflecting the weight of the decisions made within its confines. Julian strode through the doors, his jaw set in a firm line as he surveyed the assembled board members. Tension hung thick in the air, a palpable undercurrent of unease rippling through the room. "Gentlemen," Julian began, his voice carrying a note of steely resolve. "I trust you're all aware of the... situation at hand." A murmur of assent rose from the gathered executives, their expressions ranging from concern to outright trepidation. It