The first market alerts appeared before sunrise. By seven o'clock, every major financial publication was reporting the same story. Adrian Hawthorne's company had announced an aggressive strategic initiative that immediately raised questions across the industry. Analysts debated whether the move represented confidence or desperation, while investors waited for Vale Holdings to respond.
Inside Ashford Holdings, no one panicked. The executive floor was busy, but the atmosphere remained calm. Employees moved from one meeting to another with quiet efficiency. Phones rang steadily. Reports arrived on schedule. No one hurried through the hallways.
Lucien walked into the executive conference room carrying a tablet filled with overnight market updates. Seraphina was already there, reviewing briefing documents with Elena and the finance team.
Lucien took his seat beside her. "Good morning."
She looked up and smiled faintly. "I have the feeling it will not stay peaceful for long."
