Laying the Foundation

Episode 3: Laying the Foundation

[Scene: Liana steps into her father’s office, dressed in a sharp business suit. She projects calm confidence.]

Charles: [looking up] “You’re punctual. Good. Today, I’ll be reviewing the new mergers. Sit in and take notes.”

Liana: [nodding] “Of course, Father.”

Liana seats herself, her mind working fast. In her previous life, she stayed on the sidelines, trusting Rowena’s manipulations. Not this time.

[Scene shifts: During the meeting, Rowena walks in unannounced, a charming smile on her face.]

Rowena: [sweetly] “Father, I wanted to discuss the charity gala plans.”

Charles: [waving her off] “Later, Rowena. I’m busy.”

Liana: [watching Rowena intently] She’s already positioning herself. She’s always been good at playing the perfect daughter.

Rowena: [smiling at Liana] “Oh, Liana, it’s so wonderful to see you taking an interest in the company. Father must be so proud.”

Liana: [smiling back coolly] “It’s about time I stepped up, don’t you think?”

Rowena: [pausing slightly before recovering] “Of course.”

[Scene shifts: Later, in the company cafeteria. Vivienne meets Liana for coffee.]

Vivienne: [leaning in] “So, what’s this I hear about you shadowing your dad? You’ve never been this ambitious before.”

Liana: [stirring her coffee] “People change, Viv. I’ve realized I need to take control of my life.”

Vivienne: [smirking] “Well, it’s about time. So, about Alex—”

Liana: [cutting her off] “We’ll talk about him later. First, tell me something... what do you think of Damian Blackwood?”

Vivienne: [startled] “Damian? The CEO of Blackwood Enterprises? Why are you asking about him?”

Liana: [nonchalantly] “Just curious. I heard he’s not the easiest man to deal with.”

Vivienne: [lowering her voice] “That’s an understatement. He’s ruthless. Word is, people disappear if they cross him. Why are you interested in him?”

Liana: [smirking slightly] “Let’s just say I’m exploring my options.”

[Scene shifts: Damian’s penthouse office. He’s on a call with one of his best friends, Ethan.]

Damian: [leaning back in his chair] “She’s up to something. Liana Everhart is no longer the passive little heiress.”

Ethan: [on the phone] “You think she’s a threat?”

Damian: [smirking] “Not a threat. An opportunity. Keep an eye on her movements.”

Ethan: “Got it. Anything else?”

Damian: [pausing] “Find out what’s happening with Alex and Rowena. Their ambitions could get messy.”

[Scene shifts: Liana sits in her bedroom, surrounded by blueprints and documents. She’s working late into the night.]

Liana: [to herself] “Damian won’t trust me easily. I need leverage first. And Rowena... You’ve always underestimated me. This time, I’ll strike before you even see it coming.”

Her phone buzzes with a message from an unknown number.

Unknown (text): “Liana Everhart, I hear you’re looking for allies. Let’s talk. - D.B.”

Liana stares at the message, a slow smile spreading across her face.

Liana: [whispering] “Damian Blackwood... it’s time we meet.”

[Scene shifts: Early morning, Liana steps into a sleek café where Damian is seated at a corner table. He looks up, his dark eyes locking with hers.]

Damian: [smirking] “You’re brave to meet me alone.”

Liana: [taking a seat confidently] “Bravery has nothing to do with it. We want the same thing—power and revenge.”

Damian raises an eyebrow, intrigued.

Damian: “Go on.”

Liana: [leaning forward] “You help me take down Rowena and Alex, and I’ll make sure they never challenge you again. Deal?”

To be continued...

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