Chapter 2 - The Illusion of Control
Richard stared at the black folder, his heart hammering against his ribs. He refused to show fear. He was the CEO of Vance-Sterling Holdings. He was a titan. He scoffed, walking over to the bar cart and pouring himself a bourbon.
"You think a few doctored spreadsheets scare me, Eleanor?" Richard took a sip, the amber liquid burning his throat. "I built this empire. I am the face of the board. You’ve been playing house for a decade. If you try to drag me into court, I will bury you in litigation. You’ll be lucky to walk away with the summer house in the Hamptons."
Eleanor didn't raise her voice. She didn't need to.
"You built nothing, Richard," she replied, standing up. The ivory blazer fell perfectly into place. "My father handed you the capital. I handed you the strategy. You were just the charming puppet we put in front of the cameras because Wall Street likes a handsome man with a strong handshake."
She walked toward the private elevator. "I’m not taking you to court, Richard. The courts are for people who want a fair fight. I don't want a fair fight. I want an execution."
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She pressed the elevator button. The doors opened.
"Oh, and Richard?" Eleanor paused, not looking back. "The penthouse is in my LLC's name. You have twenty minutes to pack a bag before building security escorts you out. Enjoy your evening."
