Chapter 49
Sebastian's POV
I stood at the podium, scanning the room filled with eager reporters and flashing cameras.
My gaze briefly settled on Joanna at the back, her face pale with shock after my statement. The corners of my mouth twitched upward involuntarily.
'Joanna, did you really think I'd fall so easily?'
Turning back to face the sea of reporters, I lowered my voice to a calm, authoritative tone. "Regarding the Bronx relocation compensation issue, I will reveal the truth momentarily. Please remain patient. I'm waiting for a few more people to arrive—their presence will make everything much clearer."
The room erupted in whispers and speculation. Camera flashes intensified as reporters scrambled to capture my expression, searching for any sign of weakness.
I placed both hands firmly on the podium, my gaze sweeping across the crowd. 'Zayne, you'd better get here soon. The show can't properly start without its main villain. My patience has limits, but today, I'll make sure you have nowhere to hide.'
---
Minutes later, the side door opened. Zayne entered, supporting Grandfather with exaggerated care. Father and Karen followed closely behind. Grandfather leaned heavily on his cane, his expression somber, while Zayne maintained his facade of gentle concern, whispering something to Grandfather with false solicitude.
I remained at the podium, my eyes locked on Zayne. A sharp, mocking smile spread across my face. 'There you are, Zayne. Let's see how Father and Grandfather handle their golden boy's mistakes.'
The reporters turned their heads in unison, cameras immediately swiveling toward the newly arrived family members. The murmurs grew louder as speculation spread through the room.
After Grandfather took his seat, he shot me an icy glare. Father sat beside him, brow furrowed in silent disapproval, while Karen pretended to adjust her collar, avoiding eye contact.
I regarded my family, unmoved by their presence.
Zayne looked up, meeting my gaze with that perpetually gentle expression of his. He even nodded slightly, as if in friendly acknowledgment. I responded with a quiet scoff.
---
I nodded to Nolan, who immediately approached from the side, handing me a thick contract file.
Taking the document, I surveyed the media representatives and my family members, a cold smile playing on my lips. My voice carried a hint of sarcasm as I addressed the crowd.
"I wonder if you're all eager to see me make mistakes and apologize?"
I paused, my sharp gaze sweeping across the room. When I spoke again, my voice was heavier. "Throughout my life, I've conducted myself with integrity. I don't engage in activities that violate my moral code, yet I continue to face sabotage."
The room erupted in commotion. Reporters frantically raised their hands with questions. One bold journalist called out, "Are you suggesting that the embezzlement allegations were deliberately fabricated to frame you?"
Another reporter quickly added, "What about the contract photos circulating online? They clearly state the compensation at $500,000, but you only paid $100,000!"
I sat down gracefully, glancing once more at Joanna. Her eyes reflected growing panic. I couldn't help but smile slightly. 'Joanna, your photos certainly helped Zayne tremendously. Unfortunately for him, today I'll turn everything around.'
Turning back to face the reporters, I smiled and spoke with icy calm: "Yes, the contract circulating online is genuine. But it's an expired, invalid contract. The government and I drafted a new agreement over a month ago."
I slammed the contract in my hand onto the table with deliberate force, creating a sharp sound that instantly silenced the room.
I gestured to Nolan, who stepped forward, picked up the contract, and began reading in a steady, clear voice: "Due to funding shortages and increased costs of core materials, the Bronx relocation compensation will be distributed in two parts: the first installment of 10%, equaling $100,000, to be paid immediately; the remaining amount will be distributed at the project's conclusion, ensuring residents receive full compensation."
Nolan paused briefly before continuing, "Our company will publish this new contract online immediately following this press conference. There should be no further doubt."
The reporters whispered among themselves as camera flashes resumed. I leaned back in my chair, observing the room's reaction.
My eyes found Zayne, whose face had drained of color, his eyes betraying the first hints of fear. I couldn't help but smile. 'Scared already, Zayne? This is just the beginning. The main event is yet to come.'
A reporter raised her hand, her tone sharp and accusatory: "If there are two contracts, why create such confusion? Is your company trying to generate publicity through controversy?"
My gaze remained fixed on Zayne as I smiled coldly. "Yes, someone at our company wanted to create a spectacle—but it wasn't me."
I nodded to Nolan, who stepped back to operate the computer. A processed audio recording began playing. It contained a conversation between Joanna and me, though her voice was processed through a voice changer..
The room fell silent as everyone strained to listen.
"Tell me, did you take those photos of the contracts?"
"Alright then, let me ask you something else. Who gave those contract photos to the major media outlets?"
"Let me guess... Zayne, right?"
"Zayne and I just wanted to help those residents, Isn't the embezzlement your fault?"
---
When the recording ended, I stood up and pointed directly at Zayne. My voice carried contempt: "Yes, it was my dear brother, Zayne King."
Zayne's face turned ashen. Grandfather sharply lifted his head, shock evident in his eyes. Father frowned deeply at Zayne, while Karen kept her gaze lowered, silent.
I stared coldly at Zayne, satisfaction coursing through me. 'You thought you could use Joanna to destroy me? Too bad I've known it was you all along. This audio recording is just the beginning of your unmasking. Grandfather, Father—you've always favored him. Now, witness what your precious golden boy has been doing behind your backs.'