Chapter 13 - The Last Push
Victoria made one final attempt.
It came in the form of a carefully worded letter to the board of a foundation that both the Langford and Moretti families supported. The letter raised concerns about “undue personal influence” over staff and access protocols at properties used for foundation events. It did not name Emma. It did not need to.
Vincent received a copy the same day. He showed it to Emma during her next visit.
“This is the limit of what she can do without exposing herself to counter-claims,” he said. “The foundation will review the concern and find nothing actionable. But the letter itself will circulate among people who enjoy that sort of thing.”
Emma read the paragraphs twice. “She’s trying to make me radioactive.”
“Yes. And she is failing, slowly.” Vincent folded the letter. “I have already spoken with the relevant people. The review will be brief. Your position is secure. The visits continue if you wish them to.”
Emma handed the letter back. “I wish them to.”
Something in Vincent’s face eased. “Then we continue.”
The review concluded two weeks later with a short statement that existing protocols were sufficient and no changes were required. Victoria’s name did not appear in any public follow-up. The society blogs that had once posted the photograph of Emma leaving the estate moved on to other subjects.
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The pressure did not vanish overnight. It simply lost its ability to dictate terms.
