Chapter 212: The Tension in the Air

Natalie had been carefully orchestrating her return to the spotlight. She devoted herself to charity work and made appearances in deprived areas, filming and helping out—all aimed at winning back public favor and reestablishing her presence. But the recent scandal had unleashed a torrent of harsh criticism online, invalidating her painstaking efforts.

Warren had departed the Chambers home late last night, leaving the family to grapple with the fallout alone. The atmosphere at the Chambers home was fraught with tension. Bryson said nothing, smoking like a chimney. Sonia, clearly upset, kept her complaints to herself in light of the critical circumstances. When she caught Natalie’s worried look, Sonia averted her eyes and gave a slight nod.

“Dad, you have to figure something out—fast! Are we going to stand by and watch my life crumble?” Natalie said, frustration evident as she faced Bryson. “Remember, I returned to marry Warren. If this fails, it spells disaster for the Chambers family.”

The survival of the Chambers family now hinged on Natalie’s ability to navigate this crisis. If Warren withdrew his support, it would signal the Mitchell family’s withdrawal from their alliance with the Chambers family. Natalie’s declaration seemed to ignite a spark in Bryson’s previously dispassionate gaze. He put out his cigarette and replied calmly, “We shouldn’t be the ones worrying.”

“What are you implying?” Natalie asked, her expression one of bewilderment.

With a knowing smile, Bryson said, “It’s the Mitchell family that should be concerned now.” Seeing Natalie’s puzzled look, he explained, “Given our intertwined fates, the Mitchell family have no choice but to support us through this ordeal. Your relationship with Warren is now in the public eye, seen as almost official. If they abandon you now, they face backlash themselves. They won’t leave you isolated. Warren is the center of the Mitchell family, and you’ve always said he’s utterly loyal to you, haven’t you?”

Natalie’s anxiety eased as she listened to her father’s words. At the same time, chaos enveloped the Mitchell family. Everett looked like he had aged a decade overnight, his usual vitality replaced by exhaustion.

“Warren, what’s your plan for addressing the board about what happened yesterday?” Everett asked, his voice roughened by weariness. Since the news broke, the board members had been relentless, insisting that Warren come forward to explain himself.

Warren recognized the gravity of the situation. The shareholders were relentless in their demands, and the media frenzy made it nearly impossible to enter the company offices. He was well aware that he couldn’t remain in hiding indefinitely and would need to confront the issue directly. Pausing to gather his thoughts, Warren responded in a measured tone, “I met with Natalie last night. We’ve agreed to keep silent for the moment and will organize a press conference soon to clarify everything.”