Raymond Smith stood at the head of the Smith Group boardroom, addressing the top executives seated around the long glass table. Behind him, a massive screen displayed the proposed Manchester expansion project, a bold move set to elevate the company's influence.
"This location is a prime hub for corporate travelers and high-profile networking," Raymond stated, gesturing toward the sleek blueprint. "What sets us apart is the integration of an engineering academy—a strategic advantage that will attract both local and international attention."
Jodie Smith, uncle to the Smith siblings, leaned forward with interest. "It's a solid approach, but we should also consider a consulting division specifically for Africans in the UK. Something like—'UK African Services.'"
Will Smith nodded in approval. "That location alone will give our brand unparalleled visibility."
As Raymond returned to his seat, Ryan Smith stepped up, taking over the presentation.
Clicking the remote, he projected a new slide—a sleek visual showcasing Smith Group's expansive empire.
"Good morning, everyone," Ryan greeted confidently. "Our budget allocation for the upcoming fiscal year is designed for sustained growth and market dominance."
With a click, the first sector appeared on the screen.
Technology - Resela Gadgets: £250 million for research and development to maintain cutting-edge innovation.
Hospitality - Magic Restaurants: £100 million to expand to 100+ branches and upgrade existing locations.
Agriculture: £80 million for advanced farming technologies and production efficiency.
Media: £120 million to upgrade broadcasting and extend influence across four television stations.
Jewellery - Resela Collections: £70 million for luxury expansion and store refurbishments.
Real Estate - Stone Apartments: £150 million to boost development and marketing strategies.
Supermarkets - Nourished Chain: £90 million for logistics and expansion.
Education: £60 million to improve infrastructure across eight schools.
Finance - Magrita Bank: £200 million for digital banking upgrades and branch expansions.
Ryan's measured tone reflected the company's unwavering ambition. "This strategy cements Smith Group as a market leader, ensuring stability and influence in multiple industries."
A murmur of approval rippled through the boardroom, satisfaction evident among the top executives.
***
As the board settled, Mark Smith stood, switching the screen to an unexpected image—a Smith family portrait.
"There's a serious security concern," he declared gravely. "We have reason to believe that private company data has been leaked—possibly by someone within our inner circle."
Tension thickened.
"This board is made up of only family—forty of our most trusted members," Mark continued, his voice sharp. "If we discover a traitor among us, that person won't just lose their position. They'll be permanently cut off."
Will Smith's fury was immediate. He stood abruptly, his jaw tight. "Our home addresses are undisclosed. Our children's locations are strictly confidential. So tell me—how did my son get attacked in Canary Wharf unless someone inside this circle is talking?"
Kelvin Smith, his brother, scowled. "Instead of accusing family, why don't you investigate your own staff first?"
Peter Smith leaned forward, irritation flickering in his eyes. "Why so defensive, Kelvin? This is about preventing another attack. Our family stays under the radar, and some of us are attracting unwanted attention." His words carried an unmistakable bite.
Kelvin's temper flared. "If you've got something to say, say it to my face instead of throwing around accusations."
"Enough!" Will's booming voice cut through the tension. "Look around you—our nieces and nephews are watching. This is not how leaders behave."
A tense silence followed.
Jodie Smith finally spoke. "Anthony was lucky our security intervened, but we need to be smarter. Some of us are living too extravagantly, drawing dangerous attention. We built Smith Group to be bigger than any one individual. No one outside this family should even know who truly runs it. And we need to keep it that way."
His words settled over them like a warning.
With that, Will ended the meeting.
***
As executives dispersed, Raymond stepped out, only to be intercepted by his cousin, Fisher.
Fisher smirked. "Your fiancée returns from her royal engagement on Monday."
Raymond rolled his eyes. "And you've been keeping tabs on her because…?"
Fisher chuckled. "Just wondering if she's been flirting with the monarchy behind your back."
Raymond shook his head. "When I met Amelia, she was just another Cambridge student. People underestimate potential."
Fisher looked amused. "Henry and Oliver think you don't actually love her."
Raymond's jaw tensed. "People need to stop overanalyzing."
Fisher pressed on. "Oliver's sister, who lives with Amelia, says she constantly complains about you."
Raymond sighed. "I have a business to run. I can't be glued to my phone all day."
Fisher remained unconvinced, but Raymond was done with the conversation. He strode toward his office, brushing off the doubts.
***
Meanwhile, in the shadows of the city, a masked figure sat watching a monitor. Smoke curled from his lips as a striking woman approached him.
"They've secured the Manchester site," she reported.
The masked man's gaze narrowed. On the screen, construction was already underway.
"If they complete that project, we lose our leverage. We need to act fast."
A new figure stepped forward—Collins Slaves, a former Smith Group employee.
"I've relocated my family to Shanghai," Collins stated. "They won't be able to trace me."
The masked man nodded. "Good. Now, Raina, I need you inside their household. Collins, you and Isla will handle Raymond."
Raina hesitated. "Are we eliminating him?"
The masked man's voice was void of emotion. "Of course. That's what we do."
***
At the Smith residence, Sophia was helping Tony inside when she noticed Mrs. Smith taking her medication.
"Is she okay?" Sophia asked.
Tony shrugged. "Doctor just checks her vitals. Nothing serious."
But as Sophia turned, she felt her heart stop.
The doctor treating Mrs. Smith was someone she knew all too well.
Sammie.
The man she had once loved.
Their eyes met. The air between them grew thick with unspoken emotions.
Sophia forced a smile. "Sammie. Small world."
Mrs. Smith looked curious. "You two know each other?"
Sammie barely spared Sophia a glance. "She was just a neighbor."
Sophia's breath hitched.
"Just a neighbor?" she echoed, stunned.
Sammie's expression remained indifferent. "Why are you acting like we were ever anything more?"
Her world shattered.
And this was just the beginning.