Chapter 10 - The Master of the Kitchen
The aftermath was a media frenzy. By Monday morning, Vanguard Holdings had filed for bankruptcy. Elias Vance was under federal investigation, and Victoria was sitting in a maximum-security cell awaiting trial.
The Obsidian Tower, however, stood taller and stronger than ever. The stock price skyrocketed, the public mesmerized by the brilliant, ruthless phantom billionaire who had finally stepped out of the shadows.
It was Tuesday morning. The city was still buzzing with the scandal of the decade.
Down in the subterranean levels of the tower, the pastry kitchen was a symphony of clanking steel and humming ovens.
Sebastian stood at his marble station, a dusted black apron tied firmly over his clothes. He was carefully piping a delicate web of spun sugar over a raspberry tart. His movements were precise. His concentration was absolute.
The double doors swung open, and Oliver walked in, holding a stack of financial reports and a tablet.
"The board wants a press conference at noon," Oliver said, leaning against the counter. "The European investors want to personally meet the man who dismantled Vanguard in a single night."
Sebastian didn't look up. He gently placed a single, edible gold leaf on the tart, examining his work under the halogen lights.
"Tell them the Chairman is unavailable," Sebastian murmured, stepping back and admiring the flawless dessert.
"Unavailable doing what?" Oliver chuckled.
May you like
Sebastian pulled off his latex gloves and tossed them into the bin, a genuine, peaceful smile crossing his face for the first time in months. The aroma of Madagascar vanilla and tempering chocolate filled the air, grounding him completely.
"Tell them," Sebastian said, his eyes gleaming with quiet power, "that the chef is busy."
