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Love at the Wrong Table
Chapter 2227 The Election Unfolds
No matter the hidden agendas.
No matter the brewing tension in Zovince.
The sun still rose, and the world moved forward.
Finished
One of the most pivotal events in recent history came with it–the triennial election for the Chamber of Commerce presidency.
By early morning, the area surrounding the Chamber of Commerce building was swarming with people.
Journalists crowded the entrance, cameras flashing as they recorded every moment. Some were even live- streaming, their feeds flooded with comments from viewers eager to witness history unfold.
Everyone knew–this election wasn’t just about the Chamber of Commerce. It was a critical turning point that could sway the presidential race’s outcome.
Due to the high stakes and recent unre
in Zovince, Emmanuel did not publicly accompany Mackenzie to the event. Meanwhile, Quintus remained detained and was awaiting investigation.
Mackenzie arrived with Lexi beside her, flanked by her two elite bodyguards, Anna and Solana.
Though they weren’t as well–known as Rhett or Quintus, their skills were unmatched by most in Chanaea. Against common threats, they were practically untouchable.
Terence and Beatrix were also in attendance, though they entered through a different passage because they were not candidates.
Excitement buzzed through the crowd as eager eyes searched for key figures.
“Look! The stunning chairman of the Nuthana Chamber of Commerce is here!”
At once, the press surged forward, cameras flashing like wildfire.
Anna and Solana immediately stepped in, forming a protective barrier around Mackenzie as reporters shouted over one another.
Their questions came fast and sharp.
“Ms. Quillen, is it true that you’re challenging Mr. Tanner for the presidency?”
“What makes you think you can win? Mr. Tanner has held this position for nine years!”
“As a woman, do you truly believe you have the strength to lead?”
“You came from a second–tier business background–how did you climb this high so quickly?”
“Who’s funding you? There must be a powerful team backing you, right?”
“If you win, what are your immediate plans? Can you give us a preview?”
The questions were relentless, some blunt, others outright condescending.
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Fortunately, Solana and Anna kept the press at bay, so she remained composed. Had she been with only Lexi, they would have been completely overwhelmed by the crowd,
Catching a brief opening, she gave Lexi a subtle nod.
Lexi immediately stepped forward, raising her voice so the reporters could hear. She announced firmly, “Ms. Quillen will not be taking any questions before the election. If she is elected, she will hold a press conference afterward to address your inquiries.”
a fully expected to win.
Her words sent a clear mes
The media took the bait, excitement rippling through the crowd as they hurried to draft headlines.
As she made her way inside, instinctively scanned the area.
Her eyes locked onto a shadow ne
one of the buildings.
Gautier.
The moment their eyes met, he quick
ducked out of sight.
Up to his usual tricks again… Mackenzie though
She didn’t need to guess–he had likely planted some controlled media here, waiting for her to make a misstep.
It was an obvious ploy, but his mere presence left a sour taste in her mouth.
Not long after Mackenzie’s arrival, Teddy’s motorcade pulled up.
The same group of reporters that had bombarded Mackenzie now turned their attention to him—but the shift in tone was obvious.
“Mr. Tanner, how confident are you in securing another term?”
“Under your leadership, the Chamber of Commerce has thrived over the past three years. If re–elected, do you believe you can surpass these results?”
“How do you view your competitors? Particularly the chairman of the Nuthana Chamber of Commerce, Mackenzie Quillen?”
Unlike the grilling Mackenzie had received, Teddy was met with admiration and respect.
Watching from the sidelines, Frederick and Shane shared knowing glances, quickly identifying the tactic at play.
So, this is how they’re spinning it… If we are neutral voters, just going by what we’re seeing, we’ll probably end up siding with Teddy.
At that moment, Gautier re–emerged and stepped forward to address the media on Teddy’s behalf. “Everyone, please understand–my master, Mr. Tanner, is mourning the tragic loss of Mr. Lestrange and will not be taking questions today.”
His delivery was smooth and intentional.
To most, it sounded like a standard statement. Yet, for those paying close attention, the way he emphasized
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“my master” wasn’t accidental. It was a quiet yet deliberate move–signaling that supporting Teddy also meant recognizing his growing authority.
In sync with the game, journalists stepped aside.
Some even whispered condolences to Teddy as if he were some noble leader enduring an unjust tragedy.
Watching the act unfold, Shane clenched his fists. “They’re flipping the entire narrative! We’re going to look like the bad guys!”
Frederick nodded, his expression grim. He knew all too well–perception was everything. If a lie were repeated enough times, it wouldn’t just be believed. It would become the truth.
Nearby, Beatrix tightened her jaw. She spoke firmly, “Their manipulation won’t work forever. Mackenzie will win–I know it.”
Standing among them, Claudette and the others wore the same grim expressions.
Claudette’s hands trembled as she clasped them together, silently praying. Mackenzie, you have to succeed… Everything we fought for in West End will be meaningless if you don’t.
She knew she couldn’t stand by Euel’s
side or be his strongest pillar of support. Yet, at the very least,
she could put her faith in the woman leading this fight.
The election hall exuded grandeur and formality, a fitting stage for this pivotal nationwide event. Yet, beneath its polished exterior, tension hung heavy in the air.
A sleek ballot box, prepared for the recorded name vote, was positioned at the center of the red–carpeted stage. Six rows of chairs formed a semicircle around it, with a capacity for 600 representatives. However, since only 277 delegates were present nationwide, the seatin
was adjusted to leave an empty seat between each delegate.
Apart from them, only a little over thirty election staff, official media, and government–appointed notaries were allowed inside. No outsiders.
As Mackenzie found her seat, a murmur spread through the room.
Teddy had arrived.
Immediately, nearly every delegate stood, including those from Nuthana and West End.
“Mr. Tanner, you’re here!”
A group of Chamber of Commerce delegates hurried forward, eager to shake his hand and be seen aligning themselves with him.
It was all carefully orchestrated.
This wasn’t just a welcome–it was a display of influence.
Teddy’s team not only controlled the narrative outside but also carefully shaped the atmosphere inside. By surrounding him with unwavering support, they created the illusion of dominance.
For undecided voters, the pressure alone could be enough to tip the scales in his favor.
While some were impressed, others saw through the performance.
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Chapter 2227 The Election Unfolds
Teddy had never needed such a grand display in previous elections.
The fact that he was pulling out all the stops now suggested one thing–he was worried.
Mackenzie took note but didn’t let it faze her.
However, a loud voice rang through the hall just before the election could officially begin.
“Justice must be served! Ms. Quillen must answer for Mr. Lestrange’s death!”
Finished
