The chairman’s speech concluded to a round of formal applause, slightly easing the tension in the room, though an invisible strain remained. Next came the corporate representatives, each taking the stage to pledge their support. The heads of the first few companies spoke with earnest conviction, promising their full cooperation with the government's tech development plan and Project 07, their postures humbly deferential.
Seated in the audience, Danielle lightly tapped her fingers on the table, her eyes scanning the room. Most of these companies had some business dealings with NextCore, and while their pledges sounded sincere, she knew each had its own agenda. She noticed Harold and Lorie sitting not far away, whispering to each other with inscrutable expressions. They were clearly plotting something.
Sure enough, after a few more representatives had spoken, a middle-aged man in a gray suit with a shrewd face suddenly stood up. Danielle recognized him as Mr. Sammie, the head of Southborough Tech. He was a notorious sycophant known for stirring up trouble and was undoubtedly acting on Harold or Lorie’s instructions.
“Thank you to our esteemed leaders for their guidance. Southborough Tech will certainly do its part to cooperate,” Mr. Sammie began with practiced courtesy before his tone sharpened, his eyes locking onto Alexander. “However, before we discuss the project’s execution, I have a question for Mr. Davidson.”
Every head in the room turned toward Alexander. A hush fell over the hall, so complete that the sound of breathing was audible. Alexander remained seated, his expression as placid as ever. He simply gave a slight nod. “Mr. Sammie, please.”
If Alexander refused, he’d be branded as self-serving and unpatriotic in front of government officials and industry titans. If he agreed, he’d put an even greater strain on their already tight finances, potentially jeopardizing Project 07 itself. A faint, cold smile touched Harold's lips. He was eager to see how Alexander would escape this dilemma.
Lorie, too, looked at Alexander, a hint of schadenfreude in her eyes. She wanted to see if the perpetually composed man would finally lose his cool. Danielle’s brow furrowed slightly. She knew exactly what was happening; Mr. Sammie was openly trying to sabotage Alexander. She glanced at her husband, gauging his reaction, but his expression was as unreadable as ever.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Wife You Buried Is Back from Hell