Chapter 697
The tide of public opinion was like a massive, unstoppable avalanche.
“I know,” Suzanne nodded.
Just then, a thought occurred to her. “Justus, do you think we should buy some of that CA Antidote, just in case?” Even if Caitlin was just fearmongering, it was better to be safe than sorry.
Justus looked at her with disdain. “Grandma, those are the ravings of a lunatic. Why would you waste money validating her insanity?”
Suzanne conceded that he had a point.
As the news of the shareholder exodus spread, corporations that had once partnered with Gonzales Holdings began issuing public statements, distancing themselves from the embattled company. Everyone was afraid of being dragged down with them. Suddenly, Gonzales Holdings was radioactive, a pariah to be avoided at all costs.
When Justus learned of this, he immediately went to his grandmother. “Grandma, things are getting worse! Even families that were once close to the Gonzaleses are cutting ties. Your friendship with Keira is well-known. Even if you don’t help them publicly, if someone digs up your connection, it could damage our company.”
Suzanne’s expression grew heavy.
“Grandma, I think we should issue a statement too,” Justus proposed. “We can say that you’ve been living abroad for years and have lost contact with everyone here. It’s better to get ahead of the story before someone else tells it for us.”
Caitlin had made enemies of the entire world. If the Sterling family got caught in the crossfire, the consequences would be dire.
Suzanne frowned, torn. “But your Grandma Keira and I are genuine friends. I can’t do that to her.”
Jasmine chimed in, her tone sharp. “Mom, are you serious? What’s more important, your old friends or your own family? If you don’t take a stand you be dragging all
down with you.”
Weighing the potential fallout, Suzanne sighed and waved a weary hand. “Fine,
fine. I’m too old for all this drama. Do what you think is best.” Orıginal content can be found at.net
Justus let out a breath of relief. “I’ll have the PR department draft a statement immediately.”
**The Gonzales Residence**
An assistant was reading Keira a list of the latest families to publicly
sever ties with them. As she listened, a bitter smile touched.
vel
Keira’s lips. “So, these are the vultures I’ve had around me all these years.” How fickle the world was. When Gonzales Holdings was at its peak, everyone wanted a piece. Now, at the first sign of trouble, they were circling like predators.
“Ma’am,” the assistant continued, “The Sterling Group has also released a statement.”
*The Sterling Group?* Keira’s
expression brightened. “Finally, some good news after all the
negativity! Marcia, read me what the
Sterlings had to say.” In her mind,
Suzanne would never betray her. Their bond was too strong