Chapter 185

The news of Derek Langley's sudden appointment at Lowell Entertainment sent shockwaves across the internet.

Insiders revealed Emily Lowell personally recommended him for the position.

William Lowell received an urgent call the moment the scandal broke.

His fingers trembled as he checked the trending topics. His face turned deathly pale.

"This can't be happening..."

Stock prices plummeted. Investors frantically sold off shares. Billions in market value evaporated overnight.

Lowell Entertainment was the group's most profitable subsidiary.

Its collapse would cripple the entire Lowell empire.

William immediately ordered a media blackout.

But public outrage spread faster than anticipated. The PR department couldn't contain the fallout.

Cold sweat soaked through his dress shirt.

Chaos had reigned since Sophia Laurent left. Shareholders' displeasure was written on their faces.

This scandal was the final straw.

He issued a stiff apology statement through gritted teeth.

Netizens only grew angrier:

"Who do they think they're fooling with this corporate speak?"

"What's Derek Langley's connection to get William's personal endorsement?"

"Did he save Emily's life or something?"

The narrative took a dark turn.

Internet sleuths began digging into Derek's background.

"Bombshell! Derek's sister and brother-in-law are Sophia's adoptive parents!"

This revelation exploded across social media.

"So Sophia was behind Derek's appointment?"

"Then why is she helping Scarlett?"

"This is clearly revenge against the Lowells!"

Public opinion split into opposing camps.

Reporters swarmed the neighborhood where Sophia's adoptive parents lived.

An elderly silver-haired woman eyed the journalists warily:

"Why are you looking for the butcher's family?"

A microphone was thrust toward her:

"We'd like to ask some questions..."

The woman snorted and moved to slam the door.

But the cameras caught the flicker of disgust in her eyes.