Chapter 432
Three days after the scandal erupted, Claude finally reemerged into the public eye. Standing at the grand entrance of Yancey Bank, he faced a sea of reporters, their microphones and cameras pointed directly at him. Calm and composed, he announced, “I am stepping down as vice president temporarily.”
“This is a personal matter,” Claude said firmly. “Please do not drag the bank into this controversy. Yancey Bank’s success is thanks to your continued support. Direct your questions to me—I’m prepared to face whatever comes. Thank you.”
Despite his recent disappearance amid the scandal, Claude’s demeanor was steady, almost unshakable.
As he turned to leave, the reporters surged forward, blocking his path. One aggressive journalist shoved a recorder toward his face. “Did you assault Ms. Morgan on the day she died? The Harrises blame your family for her death. Did your actions cause it?”
Claude’s polite smile remained, but his voice was resolute. “No. I’m sorry, but I won’t answer that question.”
“Why not?” the reporter pressed.
“We are here to discuss my role at Yancey Bank,” Claude replied evenly.
When the questions persisted, Lilah stepped in, her voice firm and controlled. “Ms. Morgan has passed away, and Mr. Claude is stepping down. Out of respect for her family, we cannot entertain these questions.”
“Why not simply deny it if it’s not true? The Harrises didn’t,” another reporter shouted.
Claude offered nothing but a quiet, “I’m truly sorry.”
His secretary then moved forward, urging the crowd, “Please let us through. Mr. Claude will not answer any more questions.”
With Lilah and several aides clearing a path, Claude slipped away amid the chaos of flashing cameras and shouted queries.
The drama played out live on television screens nationwide.
In his office, Tyler sat quietly, spinning a pen between his fingers as he watched the broadcast.
At the Harris residence, Olivia sat silently, eyes fixed on the screen. Nearby, Ana lounged on the couch with a cold, almost mocking smirk. The chill in the room was unmistakable, and Olivia felt a shiver run down her spine.
Later that evening, Naomi called Olivia. When Olivia answered but said nothing, Naomi’s voice softened. “Don’t get involved in this mess.”
She hesitated, knowing the rift between them wasn’t healed yet, then added, “The Harrises and Pearces are no longer on good terms. Stay away from Claude.”
After the call ended, Naomi set down her phone and glanced at Tyler, who was flipping through a magazine.
“How did the media get wind of this so fast?” she wondered aloud.
Tyler glanced up briefly. “There are always those who aren’t afraid to challenge the family.”
Naomi’s intuition told her this scandal was moving too swiftly, too deliberately.