The private conference room on the top floor of Avila Tower felt suffocating. Heavy oak panels, dim lighting, and the faint scent of expensive leather and tension filled the air. Claire sat rigidly on one side of the long table, her lawyer beside her, hands clasped tightly in her lap to hide their trembling. Across from her, Xander sat like a king on a throne — cold, powerful, and untouchable in his tailored black suit. His lawyers flanked him, papers spread out like weapons.
The custody battle had officially begun.
Xander’s lead attorney spoke first, voice clinical and ruthless. “Mr. Avila seeks primary physical custody of Alexander Jr. Given that Ms. Hudson concealed the child’s existence for five years, and considering Mr. Avila’s substantial resources, global influence, and ability t
