Chapter 21 - THE UNBROKEN PROMISE
As the gala wound down, Victoria walked out onto the grand stone balcony overlooking the glittering Manhattan skyline.
The cold winter air felt refreshing against her skin, carrying the distant hum of city traffic and sirens far below.
Marcus stepped out onto the balcony, holding a warm woolen shawl and draped it gently over her shoulders.
"The international board members are asking if you'll be heading the European expansion committee next spring," Marcus reported respectfully.
Victoria pulled the shawl tighter around her shoulders, watching a commercial jet streak across the starry night sky.
"Tell them yes, Marcus. But only under the strict condition that our compliance audits are published publicly," Victoria instructed.
"You never stop working, do you, Boss?" Marcus chuckled softly, leaning against the stone railing.
"When you build an empire from the ashes, Marcus, you make damn sure the fire can never touch it again," Victoria replied.
May you like
She reached down, touching the small amber pendant resting against her collarbone—a gift from her grandfather long ago.
It was a quiet reminder of where she came from and the resilience that carried her through the deepest betrayal.
