Chapter 12 - Confronting The Silent Partner In New York City
Desperate for a lifeline, Elena took a subway downtown—her first time riding public transit in over a decade.
She stepped out into the bustling financial district, hiding her face beneath a large black hoodie and sunglasses.
She walked into the lobby of an unassuming brick building on Wall Street, heading toward a private elevator in the back.
This building housed the office of Victor Sterling, a secretive hedge fund manager who had funded her early social climbing.
She swiped a stolen visitor badge, riding the elevator up to the penthouse level without encountering building security.
She burst through the double doors of Victor's private office, panting heavily as the elderly investor looked up from his desk.
"Elena? What in heaven's name are you doing here looking like a vagrant?" Victor asked, frowning in absolute disgust.
"Victor, you have to help me! Clara Vance has frozen every cent I own and sent federal marshals after me!" Elena cried out.
Victor leaned back in his leather chair, steepling his fingers together with a cold, calculating expression.
"I heard the news on my way into work this morning, Elena... and I am cutting all ties with you immediately," Victor said flatly.
"Cutting ties? I made you millions through our retail distribution deals!" Elena shouted, slamming her hands on his desk.
"You made yourself a liability the moment you crossed Clara Vance," Victor corrected, pressing a button on his intercom.
Two massive private security guards stepped out from the side office doors, grabbing Elena firmly by her arms.
"Get your hands off me! You cowardly old fool!" Elena shrieked as she was dragged backward toward the elevators.
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Victor didn't even look up as the office doors clicked shut behind her, erasing her final illusion of safety.
***
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