Chapter 6 - The Clean SlateBy 2:00 AM, the Grand Hyatt ballroom was quiet again, the press and guests having cleared out following the biggest financial scandal in Manhattan's recent history.
I stood on the glass balcony of the top-floor suite, looking out over the glittering, vast skyline of New York City. The cool night air blew softly against my face, rustling the silk of my midnight-black gown.
Marcus stepped out onto the terrace, holding two glasses of sparkling water and a tablet.
"The defaulted assets of Apex Development have been fully absorbed into Sterling's secondary real estate portfolio, Clara," Marcus reported smoothly, handing me a glass. "Julian's personal accounts have been frozen to cover the outstanding liability notes. He is currently being held at the 17th precinct alongside Victoria for corporate fraud investigation."
"And Evelyn and Chloe?" I asked, taking a slow sip of water.
"They were escorted out of the 5th Avenue penthouse forty minutes ago," Marcus replied, a rare, subtle smirk touching his lips. "Chloe's social media accounts have been permanently suspended by her sponsor agencies, and Evelyn is currently staying at a cheap motel near the airport."
I looked out at the city lights—the soaring skyscrapers, the glowing bridges, and the endless horizon of my real world.
For eight years, I had believed that hiding my light was the only way to make a man feel strong. I had carried the burden of his ego, endured his mother's cruelty, and washed his dishes while holding the keys to the city in my pocket.
I felt no hatred for Julian. I felt no lingering bitterness or pain. I felt only a profound, weightless, and absolute peace.
"What are your orders for tomorrow morning, Madam Chairman?" Marcus asked respectfully.
May you like
I turned around, looking at my Chief of Staff, my eyes bright, clear, and filled with the unshakeable authority of a woman who had finally stepped into her true power.
"Tomorrow morning, Marcus," I smiled softly, "we buy the Brooklyn port terminal. It's time to build something real."
