Madly Yours (Nora Reed) novel Chapter 547

Finnian assumed Hudson was just being his usual cynical self and ignored the 'practicing medicine' comment.

"I heard from Jude Winslow that Vanguard Microchips just successfully ran its initial architecture framework. That's a massive win," Finnian noted.

Hudson finally placed the cigarette between his lips and flicked his lighter. The flame reflected in his dark, predatory eyes.

"News travels fast."

"So, are you really planning to go to war with the Vaughn Family over this?"

Hudson exhaled a plume of smoke. "Just because Vincent Vaughn might become your brother-in-law doesn't mean you have to side with him. What do you mean, 'go to war'? He's the one trying to strangle my supply chain. I call this self-defense."

Finnian choked slightly at the 'brother-in-law' comment, rubbing his temples in exasperation. "Anyway, you heard about the assassination attempt on Vincent a few days ago, right? Word is Phoebe Vaughn was punished by the family for it and took a heavy blow. Knowing her temper, she's not going to let this slide. This internal war is going to get bloody."

Hudson pulled the cigarette from his mouth, tapping the ash off with a casual flick. "Who says a daughter is worth less than a son? The Vaughn Family is full of dinosaurs. Why hand the keys to Vincent when Phoebe is clearly the superior player? She's ruthless, capable, and has actual vision. She's miles ahead of him."

Finnian paused, sounding genuinely bewildered. "Are you serious? You actually think that?"

"Dead serious," Hudson drawled, taking another drag. "Honestly, I'm praying they tear each other apart so I can swoop in and clean out the vault."

Finnian laughed helplessly at his absolute lack of morals. "Alright, I'm not dealing with your chaos today. Talk to you later."

Hanging up, Finnian looked across his hotel suite. Sitting on a single sofa, legs elegantly crossed, Phoebe Vaughn was slowly applying a fresh coat of lipstick.

She wore a sharp, tailored black suit over a silk burgundy shirt, the deep crimson enhancing her striking features.

Her makeup was heavy, giving her an intimidating, commanding presence, yet there was an undeniable, effortless magnetism about her.

Finnian sighed. "Did you hear that, Ms. Vaughn? Mr. Lancaster is perfectly content to sit back and watch your family burn."

Phoebe stood, smoothing down her blazer with a smirk. "Perfect. I want it to burn. He seems like my kind of man. Pity he got married so early."

Finnian raised an eyebrow. "What? If he was single, would you actually try to marry him to secure an alliance?"

She pocketed her lipstick, her tone entirely pragmatic. "Why not? I have eighteen sisters. I'd just throw one at him. Being my brother-in-law is hardly a punishment."

"..."

Finnian stared at her for a solid two seconds before deciding it was completely useless to argue.

After seeing Phoebe out, he sat alone on the sofa, sipping his cold coffee. He let out a long sigh.

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