Revenge is Best Served… After Reborn

"Since James and Claire want to play games, let's join in on the fun," Sophie said with a playful glint in her voice.

The car pulled up to the Regent Hotel, where a swarm of reporters was already gathered, cameras ready. As soon as Sophie and Colby stepped out, the flashbulbs lit up like fireworks.

"Ms. Sophie! Can you comment on the online buzz about the real and fake heiress? Any truth to it?"

"Is Claire really the true heiress of the Russell family?"All text © NôvelD(r)a'ma.Org.

"Did you orchestrate an online smear campaign against Claire?"

The questions came fast and sharp, each reporter eager to get a scoop from Sophie. But she remained silent, while Colby, standing beside her, shot them a frosty glare. That one look was enough to make the reporters pause, a chill running down their spines. Adler announced, "The press conference is about to start! Feel free to ask your questions there. Sophie will address them all!"

Adler was well-connected and respected among the media, so with his assurance, the reporters filed into the hotel without causing a scene.

Meanwhile, over at the Lewis Inc. building, James stood by the window, watching the hustle and bustle at the Regent Hotel. His gaze was intense.

Just then, Colt walked in, "Mr. Burke, everything's set. The reporters are here. Ready to cut the ribbon?"

"Not yet. Let's hold off a bit," James replied.

"Really? Wait for what?"

"Didn't you notice Sophie and Colby are here? This is a showdown."

"So, what's the plan?"

"We need to draw their reporters over to our side."

"But they might be thinking the same thing."

"Then let's see who plays their cards better."

Claire walked in, gracefully clad in a gold-trimmed evening gown, exuding elegance and poise. Her

face, strikingly similar to Sophie's et

bore a subtle smile. "Burke

International is the big player in Devonport. Letting them steal the show would be embarrassing," she said.

"Ms. Claire," Colt greeted. Claire arched an eyebrow, clearly not fond of the address. "It's Mrs. Burke now," she corrected, sliding beside James and taking his arm with a hint mischief, "James, don't hold back."

"I never go easy on my rivals," James replied coolly.

swnove

Back at the press conference, Sophie and Colby were inside the venue. The reporters had settled, but then their phones buzzed simultaneously.

"Major scoop next door? What about here?"

"James and Claire are across the street. Burke's got a grand opening and some big news!"

"That sounds juicier than a clarification. Let's head over there!"

The journalists whispered among themselves and soon, the room emptied.

Jenna, fuming as she watched the exodus, stomped her foot. "That James Playing dirty like this!" She

hed over to Sophie, "Sophie, what now? They're all gone!"

"Don't sweat it," Sophie said calmly.