The next morning at Knight Corporation felt unusually tense.
Emily noticed it immediately.
Employees moved faster.
Executives whispered in corners.
Something had changed.
She walked into Alexander's office.
"You didn't sleep, did you?"
Alexander looked up from his laptop.
"I had work."
Emily crossed her arms.
"You always say that when something's wrong."
Alexander didn't deny it.
Instead, he turned the screen toward her.
A news headline filled the display.
"Blackwood Group Acquires Major Shares in Knight Corporation's Partner Companies."
Emily's eyes widened.
"They're attacking our network."
Alexander nodded.
"Indirect pressure."
Emily frowned.
"They're trying to weaken us before a direct move."
Alexander looked at her.
"Exactly."
Emily took a deep breath.
"Then we respond."