Queen of Steel: Throne of Lies

Chapter 6

As the name of the charming yet enigmatic professor rolled off Mr. Chamberlain's lips, my mind kicked into high gear, wheels turning with piqued curiosity. He proceeded to sing praises about the man's impressive accomplishments.

"We're quite fortunate to have him pioneering this effort," he declared with evident satisfaction. "His methods may be a tad unorthodox, but the results are simply exceptional. Preston Hahn's expertise will undoubtedly prove invaluable as we strive to establish truly effective treatment programs."

A slow, sly smile spread across my features as tantalizing possibilities began taking shape. This endeavor, it seemed, had just become infinitely more fascinating with his involvement.

"Well then, we must ensure Dr. Hahn has all the resources and support he requires," my father stated smoothly, favoring me with an approving paternal glance as his hand came to rest upon my shoulder. I responded with a bright, resolute nod.

"I'll make it my personal mission to guarantee his success," I reassured them, the words carrying an underlying promise that left no doubt as to my grim determination.

As the conversation shifted to other subjects, my Father politely excused us and discreetly guided me toward a quiet corner, away from everyone's earshot.

"Tahlia," he began, a conspiratorial twinkle in his eye as he addressed me. "I trust you'll be in attendance at the upcoming shareholders' meeting?"

"I'm glad to see you too, Daddy," I replied, unable to conceal the bitterness in my tone. After 21 years, you'd think I'd have grown accustomed to his perpetual dismissiveness, but no.

"And I'm delighted to see you're blossoming into quite the exquisite young woman, my dear," He said smoothly, clearly unruffled by my sharp rejoinder. A spark of intrigue flickered in my gaze as I tilted my head slightly, silently urging him to continue.

"Will the young Lockwood boy be joining us as well?" My heart skipped a beat at the mention of Allistair.

"What about it, Father?" I inquired, my curiosity mingling with a hint of apprehension.

Father adopted a tone of feigned nonchalance, though the undercurrent of heavy implication hung palpably between us. "I simply wonder how your relationship with the boy is faring these days. Any reasonable young man who insists he's madly in love wouldn't dream of missing an opportunity to parade an arm candy such as yourself."

The muscles in my jaw ticked with sudden resentment, though I fought to maintain my icy decorum. Lifting my chin defiantly, I met his pale emerald gaze head-on without flinching.

"Well, Father, the answer to that little enigma is quite simple," I stated in clipped tones. "I don't allow it." My voice was as stern as steel. "But I'm ever so glad you approve of my looks after all. I take after you." The last part came out heavily laced with sarcasm.

Father chuckled, unperturbed by my derisive commentary on his vanity and arrogance. "Sometimes I forget beneath that gorgeous exterior beats a heart as stubborn as my own."

My spine stiffened with indignant disdain, anxiety threatening to break my cool facade. "Father, if you have something to say, say it. Running around in circles is quite... unbecoming of you," I snapped.

Father's eyes glittered with the same ruthless edge I recognized from seeing it reflected back in my own gaze time and again over the years. When he spoke again, the weight of his pronouncement slammed into me like a physical blow, causing the world to pitch violently.

"Very well then - the time has come for you and Allistair to formalize your relationship. Bill Lockwood and I will formally announce your engagement at the shareholders' meeting in two weeks."