Alena knocked on the door and heard a calm “Come in” from the other side. She entered the study, closing the door gently behind her.
Rose sat poised on a high-backed leather swivel chair behind a polished mahogany desk. On either side of her were tall bookshelves, brimming with volumes that gave the room an air of quiet authority.
Alena paused for a moment, noting how Rose’s fingers danced across the laptop keyboard. She hesitated but then spoke, her voice measured. “I’m sorry to interrupt, Mother.”
Rose looked up, a smile softening her features. “No need to apologize, dear. I assume it’s important if you’re here.”
Alena stepped closer, her movements deliberate. “It is. I feel like something’s changed—like I’m being sidelined from your plans.” Her voice carried a hint of controlled anger, though her expression remained composed.
Rose leaned back in her chair, steepling her fingers. “You seem upset. What’s troubling you?”
“Wilson,” Alena said, her voice sharp.
Rose arched a brow, her curiosity piqued. “What about him?”
“Did you send him to my house to deal with Kate? Without telling me? Why?”
Rose’s expression didn’t waver. “I thought it better he handle it. You have more pressing matters to attend to.”
“But Kate has been under my care for years,” Alena countered, her tone rising. “He should have consulted me first.”
Rose’s lips curved into a faint smile, though her gaze remained steady. “Why are you so agitated? You knew Kate’s presence was leverage against Jeff. He failed me, and this is his punishment. I sent Wilson because I won’t let your hands get dirty.”
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Alena’s jaw tightened. “Even so, I should have been informed.”
Rose’s eyes narrowed slightly, studying Alena with quiet intensity. “Tell me, Alena, have you developed feelings for Jeff? Is that why you’re so protective of his sister?”
Alena scoffed, shaking her head. “Feelings? Hardly. But Wilson…” She clenched her fists. “He acts as if I don’t matter. He doesn’t even respect my authority. Do you know what he said to me? He mocked me—said I think too highly of myself. As if he’s untouchable!”
Rose sighed, a trace of amusement flickering in her eyes. “And that’s why you’re so worked up?”
“His confidence is infuriating,” Alena snapped. “I won’t tolerate it.”
Rose regarded her daughter calmly. “So, what do you want to do about it?”
“I want him gone,” Alena said coldly. “He’s a threat to my position, and I won’t stand for it.”
Rose watched her intently, the faintest smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “Why not let me handle his punishment?”
“I want to do it myself!” Alena’s voice was firm.
Rose rose from her chair, walking over to place her hands on Alena’s shoulders. “Patience, my dear. We still need him—for now. When the time comes, you’ll have your chance.”
“But—”
“Shh,” Rose whispered, pressing a finger to Alena’s lips. “Trust me.”
Alena’s fiery gaze met her mother’s, searching for hidden motives. Finally, she nodded, albeit reluctantly.
Rose returned to her chair and sat gracefully. “Did you know,” she began, “after your father’s resignation, he bribed the board to support Alicia as the next president of Beliny?”
Alena’s eyes widened, fury bubbling to the surface. “Why would he do that?”
Rose leaned back, her voice calm. “He’s desperate to earn her forgiveness. But don’t worry—Alison has taken care of her.”
“I heard Alicia’s in a coma. What if she wakes up?”
Rose’s lips curved into a sly smile. “Do you think I’d let that happen?”
“If we’re not careful, she’ll take Beliny,” Alena said, her fists clenching. “I won’t let her have it. It’s mine by right as the firstborn. This is an insult.”
Rose chuckled softly. “You worry too much when it comes to her. Everything is going according to plan. Do you think I’d let it all fall apart now when we are close?”
Alena took a deep breath, her anger momentarily subdued. “I’m sorry, Mother. I didn’t mean to doubt you.”
“Good,” Rose said, her voice soothing. “I'm sure your father will likely be at the hospital by now, drowning in his own guilt.”
“And Alison?”
Rose smirked, her fingers drumming lightly on the desk. “She’s walking straight into her own downfall. Just wait—you’ll see her arrested soon enough.”
Alena returned her mother’s smile, a sense of satisfaction flickering across her face.