Chapter 3 - The Velvet Viper

Chloe’s arrogance grew with every passing day. Because I feigned exhaustion and depression, she practically took over the household. She fired staff she didn't like, redecorated rooms, and started hosting lavish luncheons on my dime.

I sat through one of these luncheons in the sunroom, pretending to doze in my wheelchair.

Chloe was sitting with her mother and three socialite friends, sipping mimosas.

“It’s just so exhausting,” Chloe sighed dramatically. “Being a caretaker. I never imagined my twenties would be spent pushing a grown man around. It’s like having a very expensive toddler.”

Her friends giggled.

“You’re a saint, Chloe,” her mother cooed. “But remember, the medical proxy goes through next Friday. Once Robert takes over the company, the board has authorized a massive payout for Julian’s ‘ongoing care.’ You’ll be in control of the accounts.”

“I’ve already picked out the yacht,” Chloe smirked. “Julian loved sailing. It’s only fitting I buy one in his honor. I might even bring him along sometimes. Leave him on the deck while I swim.”

More laughter.

My blood boiled, but my face remained slack, my eyes closed.

Later that afternoon, Elena brought my lunch to the library. She set the tray down and quietly slipped a flash drive under my napkin.

“Miss Chloe left her laptop unlocked in the conservatory,” Elena whispered, pouring my tea. “I copied the emails you asked for.”

“Thank you, Elena,” I said, looking at the drive.

When I plugged it into my hidden terminal that night, I found exactly what I was looking for. Chloe wasn't just plotting with my uncle. She was sleeping with my best friend.

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There were dozens of emails between Chloe and Marcus. Graphic, detailed, and cruel. They laughed about my “dead legs.” They discussed transferring ten million dollars from my personal accounts to an offshore shell company the moment the proxy was signed.

I printed every single email. I organized the bank routing numbers. I built the guillotine; they were happily walking right up the steps.