Chapter 16 RUMOURS
A sleek, modern set. The Sinclair Group logo flashes briefly on the screen before cutting to a poised news anchor behind a glass desk. The headline at the bottom reads:
"Sinclair Group Secures Landmark Energy Deal"
ANCHOR (V.O.)
In international business news, the Sinclair Group has just closed one of the biggest corporate acquisitions of the year, a multi-million dollar deal with Greenport Energy, a leading European renewable energy firm. "The deal was closed early this morning, marking a major expansion into Europe's renewable energy sector."
Footage rolled high-level boardroom meetings, signed contracts, and executives shaking hands.
"This acquisition marks one of the most significant moves by Sinclair Group in the last decade."
"Sources confirm the agreement had been in negotiation for months, with CEO Ethan Sinclair leading talks personally. A press conference is scheduled for later today, where Mr. Sinclair is expected to address the media and outline the company's next strategic move."
The anchor shifted her notes slightly and offered a firm nod to the camera.
"More details are expected at the upcoming press conference, where CEO Ethan Sinclair will speak on the deal's long-term impact."
She gave a small, professional smile.
"For now, all eyes remain on Sinclair Group as it continues to shape the future of global energy. I'm Dana Wells. More updates after the break."
The screen faded to black, the Sinclair logo lingering a moment longer than necessary.
Ethan stood by the window, phone pressed to his ear, eyes fixed on the stretch of manicured land outside. His expression was unreadable.
"Impressive work, Ethan," came the voice of Gerald Vance, a senior shareholder. "Greenport was no small fish. Congratulations."
Ethan's voice was calm. "Thank you."
"Most wouldn't attempt a deal that size under normal conditions, let alone with half the company watching your every step."
There was a pause, just long enough to imply more than what was being said.
Ethan knew that some of the shareholders were never rooting for him. They wanted him to fail so they could take his father's company for themselves. Most of them didn't believe he could handle a company as large and powerful as Sinclair Group. But with every move he made, Ethan proved them wrong,quietly, strategically, and without asking for approval.
"You're making quite the statement lately. I suppose you're not just sitting in the chair, you're anchoring yourself to it."Even while you were supposed to be on honeymoon, you never really stop, do you?"
Ethan's gaze didn't waver. "Responsibility doesn't pause for personal schedules."
Gerald chuckled, but it lacked warmth. "Hmm. That's one way to hold onto control."
"I do what's necessary for the company," Ethan replied coldly.
Gerald exhaled sharply. "Well, we'll see what the next quarter brings. Congratulations again.
"Thank you," Ethan replied.
The call ended, but before he could drop the phone, it lit up again with another call coming in.
"Hugo."
"You really don't sleep, do you?" Hugo's voice came through with its usual dry warmth. "Congratulations, by the way. Greenport a solid win. Even on your so-called honeymoon, you're still outworking the rest of us."
Ethan allowed a faint smirk. "It had to be done."
"Of course it did," Hugo said, amused. "Just don't forget you're married now. There are better things to wake up to than acquisition reports."
Ethan didn't respond to that.
"Anyway, just a heads up the press briefing is scheduled for four. Everything's been cleared and coordinated. You'll have a short window, then Q&A."
"Noted."
"Try to look like you've been away from the office, even if we both know you haven't."
The line went dead.
Vivienne entered the main building just after sunset, her heels echoing softly through the hall. The place was calm, dimly lit.
In the dining room, the table was beautifully set for two elegant glassware, fresh tulips, and candlelight. But Ethan and Lena were nowhere in sight.
She stopped a maid passing by. "Where's Ethan?"
"Mr. and Mrs. Sinclair stepped out for dinner," the maid said politely.
Vivienne didn't respond. She simply walked to the end of the table, sat down, and pulled out her phone. Quietly, she took a few tasteful pictures: the plates, the chandelier, the view of the estate through the window, nothing too revealing, but just enough to suggest where she was.
She uploaded them with no caption.
Then she ate slowly, savoring the quiet luxury.
She glanced down.
The post had already taken off comments flooding beneath the carefully framed photos.
"That's definitely the Sinclair mansion."
"He flew her out? During his honeymoon?"
"Ethan must still be in love with her."
Vivienne scrolled slowly, her fingers resting on the screen.
A small, pleased smile tugged at her lips as she set the phone down beside her glass.
Everything was going exactly as planned
After dinner, she wandered the halls for a bit before heading back to the guest wing. The day had drained her.
The doors to the conference room opened, and a hush fell over the crowd.
Ethan walked in first, sharp in a tailored suit, his expression unreadable. Lena followed beside him, poised and composed, dressed simply but elegantly.
Flashes from cameras flickered like lightning as they made their way forward.
Lena took her seat at the front row, her posture straight, hands folded neatly in her lap. She didn't look left or right.
Ethan stepped onto the stage without hesitation, his presence commanding the room before he said a single word.
The room fell completely silent.
Ethan adjusted the mic slightly, his gaze sweeping the room.
"I want to thank you all for being here. The Sinclair Group is proud to finalize this partnership - one that will expand our international operations and strengthen key markets across Europe and the Middle East. We've spent months building this, and today marks a new chapter for the company."
Polite applause followed.
He nodded once, signaling the floor was open.
A few reporters stood, asking predictable questions about logistics, projections, and foreign market strategies. Ethan answered each with the calm precision he was known for.
Then, one voice cut through the room.
"Mr. Sinclair," a woman called from the second row, "there's been speculation online is it true you brought your ex along with you during your honeymoon?"
The room shifted cameras raised, pens froze mid-note.
Ethan's expression didn't change. He glanced once toward Lena, then looked back at the reporter.
"Who says we're in the same place?" he replied coolly.