Chapter 9 - THE SMEAR CAMPAIGN UNLEASHED
Three days later, tabloid headlines across New York erupted with salacious and fabricated claims about Ethan Vance.
Eleanor's legal team released leaked photos to tabloid media, falsely alleging Ethan operated an unsafe workplace environment.
The articles claimed Hannah was an unvetted worker who put high-society guests in grave danger during the gala.
Reporters and satellite news vans swarmed the wrought-iron gates of the Westchester estate, demanding public statements.
Inside the house, Hannah watched the news coverage on the living room television screen, feeling overwhelmed by guilt.
"They're attacking you because of me, Mr. Vance," Hannah said, wringing her hands anxiously.
Ethan stood near the grand window overlooking the lawn, drinking coffee without a single trace of worry on his face.
"Let them throw their cheap mud, Hannah," Ethan said calmly, turning around with a sharp, decisive smile.
"When you strike an opponent on Wall Street, you let them dig their own grave before you pull the lever," he added.
He gestured to his communications director, who was waiting near the grand foyer framed by the American flag.
May you like
"Schedule a live, national press conference in the grand ballroom for six o'clock tonight," Ethan ordered.
***
