Chapter 3 - THE HEIR'S NIGHTMARE
Panic rippled through Braden's chest as the devastating reality of Arthur's words began to sink in.
He stared at Victoria's sharp, unblinking hazel eyes, searching for any sign of a bluff or a cruel joke.
There was none.
"That's impossible," Braden whispered, his thick silver chain necklace rising and falling with his ragged breath. "My father controls the primary shares."
"Your father was bought out by the board three days ago, Braden," Victoria spoke for the first time, her voice like ice.
The guests gasped collectively, the shocking revelation spreading like wildfire across the Hamptons lawn.
Braden lunged forward in blind rage, but Arthur intercepted him instantly with a forearm against his chest.
"I wouldn't cross that line if I valued my freedom, Braden," Arthur warned quietly, his eyes narrowing into cold slits.
Victoria stepped past the two men, her emerald silk dress sweeping gracefully across the manicured grass.
She approached the mahogany bar cart, lifting a crystal glass filled with vintage champagne.
May you like
"To family legacies," Victoria toasted softly, raising the glass toward the paralyzed crowd before taking a single sip.
Braden looked around desperately for his allies among the elite guests, but every single face turned away in cowardice.
