Chapter 1690

“There’s a surveillance camera overhead, just so you know,” Ben said coldly, his gaze sharp as a blade. “I get it that you’re here to stick up for Summer. But let me be clear: whatever happened between the Lucas family and the Larson family is none of your business.” He held up the empty glass, his tone unwavering. “That drink was a warning. Don’t even think about testing my limits.”
Jamie was his limit-his bottom line. He wouldn’t allow anyone to harm or disrespect her.
Lila’s voice rang out, dripping with mockery as she addressed the gathering crowd. “Did everyone hear that? He’s threatening me with a drink as a ‘warning.’ Anyone here would agree this behavior is out of line. And all because I said a few words?
“Ben Lucas, someone like you will get what’s coming to you!” Lila snapped, her voice sharp and bitter. “Doesn’t anyone wonder why someone who was doing so well as a lawyer suddenly gave it all up to become a CEO? Doesn’t everyone know lawyers aren’t supposed to engage in business?”
Lila knew exactly what kind of man Ben was, but that didn’t make it any easier for her to swallow the humiliation. This wasn’t just about defending Summer, it was personal. She had never been so publicly disgraced in her life. And now, in front of all these people, Ben had thrown wine in her face. How dare he?
Her words caused a stir among the onlookers, and the murmurs quickly turned into outright speculation.
“You know, she has a point. Ben Lucas was one of the top lawyers in the city. How does someone pivot to being a CEO so quickly? Seems suspicious.”
“Exactly. You don’t just leave law overnight unless there’s something shady going on.”
“Well, he does have connections,” someone muttered. “Not just his own, but the Lucas family’s. Years of influence add up. Honestly, it’s no surprise.” “Yeah, money and power always win in the end,” another chimed in.
*
Jamie couldn’t believe it. Ben had brought her here to help her gain experience, but it had turned into a full-blown trial of Ben’s character. These people were relentless.
She tried to pull him away, but Ben only tightened his grip on her hand.
Standing firm, he addressed the crowd with a calm but commanding voice. “Let me make this clear: my career shift was done by the book My law license has been formally revoked, and the Lucas
Corporation’s management rights
are still in my father’s hands. I’m just temporarily managing it.”
His calm demeanor was unshaken, but he knew the truth. Once rumors took hold, they were nearly impossible to dispel with a simple explanation.
Predictably, the crowd remained skeptical, their murmurs growing louder.
Someone snickered, “Sure, Ben. And I suppose we’re all just supposed to take your word for it. If you weren’t hiding something shady, why would you quit law so suddenly? It doesn’t add up.” Another chimed in with mock indignation, “Exactly. If you’ve got nothing to hide, why not let the authorities investigate you? Prove it.”
“We need evidence,” someone else declared, their tone smug. “Without it, how can we trust a single word you say?”
“Yeah, save the excuses. Why don’t we just call the hotline and have the investigators show up right now? Let’s get to the bottom of it.” The remarks escalated, the accusatory energy in the room crackling like static electricity.
Jamie’s heart raced as she listened to the biting accusations. Without hesitation, she stepped in front of Ben, shielding him with her small frame Her eyes blazed with determination, despite the unease she felt deep inside.
ve
Ben’s breath caught for a moment as he saw Jamie standing protectively before him. Her gesture, so simple yet so brave, caused an unexpected warmth to rise in his chest. For a fleeting moment, tears welled up in his eyes.
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