Chapter 103 A lover’s betrayal

Mariama felt as if she'd been punched in the gut. Even knowing Rogan had betrayed her, hearing him say the words out loud was like a physical blow. "Rogan," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, "how long?" He didn't pretend to misunderstand. "Years," he admitted. "Since before I joined Luxor. I'm sorry, Mariama. I truly am. But this is bigger than you or me." The betrayal burned in her chest, threatening to consume her. But Mariama forced it down. She couldn't afford to lose control. Not now. "I see," she said, her voice growing stronger. "And I suppose you have a recommendation for the board?" Rogan nodded, not meeting her eyes. "I believe the only viable path forward is to accept Mr. Agamemnon's offer. A controlled transition of power is preferable to a chaotic dissolution." The room fell silent, all eyes turning to Mariama. She stood slowly, surveying the faces around her. Some sympathetic, some hostile, all waiting to see what she would do. "Before we move to a vote,"