Page 180 of Thorns of Malice

"Turn it up," Lilly orders.

I grab the remote and take the volume off mute.

Dax states, "Avery illegally obtained the ability to use the patent for her perfume. She had already announced it and sent samples to all major buyers. I was trying not to bring any harm to the Seducing Ivy hybrid. Avery agreed to sign her company under Carrington Enterprises in exchange for me not pressing charges. Ultimately, her company has always had my full authority, and I was working with my legal team to take the steps needed to make the necessary changes."

"What changes?"a male reporter shouts.

Dax continues,"Yesterday, I officially removed Avery from Avery Carrington Scents. In addition, she no longer is welcome on the Carrington estate."

A gasp goes through the crowd. Another female reporter yells,"You kicked her out of her home?"

Dax nods."Yes. She's in violation of the trust stipulations my grandfather put in place for my siblings and myself. He may be dead, but living on the estate he built is a privilege, not a right."

More yelling fills the room.

Dax holds up his hand until there is silence.

"Let me make it clear. I do not, nor does Carrington Enterprises, condone any of Avery's actions. It's vile, illegal, and violates everything the corporation my grandfather built stands for and I continue to honor and build. At this time, Avery Carrington Scents has been dissolved."

"Damn," Lilly blurts out.

Dax announces,"The perfume formula will be archived and all unfulfilled orders refunded. Any future perfume utilizing the Seducing Ivy brand will be a new creation. My hope is that Avery Carrington Scents will be a blip in your memory."

"Will you stand by your sister and help her with her upcoming legal battles?"a male reporter asks.

Dax's face falls. He waits a moment and firmly asserts,"No. Avery is on her own."

Gasps fill the air.

A look of sympathy crosses his face and he declares,"My sincerest condolences go out to her victims. Carrington Enterprises has set up a legal fund for any victim who wants to come forward and seek justice against my sister, Professor Dyer, or Bobby Winston."

"Holy shit," Jaxon mutters.

My pulse pounds between my ears. I sit on the couch to steady myself, feeling light-headed.

Dax holds his hand up again until the room quiets, then adds,"I'm also creating a therapy center. Victims can receive intensive counseling from the best professionals in the country. I've authorized my team to fast-track it. We hope the buildingis open within three months, but victims can receive immediate help via video therapy."

A toll-free number pops up on the screen.

Reporters scream more questions, but Dax says,"Thank you,"and disappears through a door.

The news anchor appears, stating,"And in the latest turn of events in the Clifton University scandal, Dax Carrington is stepping forward and making a blast of a statement."

"He sure is, Trina,"a male anchor agrees.

I turn off the TV.

Jaxon, Lilly, and I stare at each other.

My phone buzzes.

Dax: I'll be home in an hour. I'm sorry I'm running late.

Me: That was amazing what you just did.

Dax: You saw it?

Me: Yes.

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