Chapter Forty Six - A Bitter Betrayal

Alessandro shook his head. "No, I should have trusted your judgment. You've proven your loyalty to this family time and time again. I just hope... I hope this hasn't changed things between us." Before Amelia could respond, they were interrupted by a group of concerned shareholders, eager to discuss the company's next steps. Alessandro gave Amelia an apologetic look before being pulled away into a heated discussion. As the night wore on, the gala gradually returned to some semblance of normalcy. The music resumed, albeit with a more subdued tempo, and guests began to dance and mingle once more. But there was an undercurrent of excitement and speculation that couldn't be ignored. Amelia found herself by the French doors leading to the terrace, needing a moment of fresh air and solitude. As she gazed out at the moonlit gardens, she felt a presence beside her. It was Claudia. "You did well tonight, my dear," Claudia said, patting Amelia's arm. "It wasn't easy, but it was necessary." A