He was testing her boundaries.

If she showed the slightest weakness, Alexander would push harder, cornering her from all sides.

Amy didn't waste time arguing. She reached into her bag and pulled out a stack of sheet music, along with a sleek portable player.

"These are my original compositions," she said, placing them on the table. "Ms. Langley, Mr. Blackwood, feel free to review them before deciding on my offer."

Victoria took the sheets, her trained eyes scanning the notes with precision.

Within moments, she looked up, meeting Amy's steady gaze.

Victoria had studied music herself—she wasn’t an amateur.

She could recognize talent when she saw it.

Amy continued, "I won’t use Celeste’s name to generate publicity for anyone—especially not with Ms. Langley’s current reputation. That’s non-negotiable."

She paused, then added, "Frankly, Mr. Blackwood, whatever price you’re offering, I could earn that easily in the future. It’s hardly tempting."

Her lips curved slightly. "Unless, of course, you’re willing to pay a sum so outrageous it would justify ruining my reputation permanently. By my calculations, that would require at least nine figures."

Nine figures.

No sane person would agree to that.

Not Alexander, not even Nathan. Who would spend a hundred million just to secure an exclusive composer for someone they cared about?

Even if he had the money, it would be reckless.

Amy leaned forward. "Ms. Langley, if any of these pieces interest you, you may choose one. But if you insist on using Celeste’s name for hype, I’m afraid no amount of threats will change my mind."

Alexander pressed play on the device.

A haunting violin melody filled the room, its notes weaving through the air like a whispered secret.

Silence fell instantly.

Even Isabella and Gregory—who knew nothing about music—were captivated, their expressions softening.

No one spoke until the last note faded.

Alexander’s face remained unreadable, his dark eyes inscrutable. He turned to Victoria. "Well?"

Victoria hesitated. "Ms. Sinclair’s work is extraordinary. But what I need isn’t just skill—I need a name that will draw attention."

Amy’s voice was calm. "With all due respect, Ms. Langley, more publicity is the last thing you need right now. Even with Celeste’s reputation backing you, the public won’t forgive so easily."

Nathan’s composure cracked, his eyes flashing.

"You keep insulting Victoria’s reputation. What’s your real agenda?"

Amy didn’t flinch. "I’m stating facts. I have a career to protect. And let’s be honest—could Ms. Langley even afford Celeste’s rates in her current position?"

She tilted her head. "Or would you prefer rumors that she’s being bankrolled by a secret benefactor?"

Her gaze flickered to Alexander. "Unless you plan to announce your divorce publicly?"

The industry knew about their separation.

But the public didn’t.

Alexander had kept it quiet—not for Liam’s sake, but to prevent Blackwood Enterprises’ stocks from plummeting.

His expression darkened.

"You’re very persuasive," he murmured.

Amy smiled. "Not persuasion. Just truth."

After a long pause, Alexander nodded.

"Fine. But you’ll provide Victoria with three original songs."

Amy didn’t hesitate. "Agreed."

Victoria and Nathan protested simultaneously. "Alex!"

His voice was ice. "She’s right. Victoria, you’ve had enough scandal. It’s time to step out of the spotlight."