Chapter 4: The Truth Behind the Scars
Back inside, the tension had diffused into a somber, respectful atmosphere. Alexander took Maya to a private booth, the "waitress" now the guest of honor.
"I never told anyone it was you," Maya admitted, wiping her eyes. "After the crash, I just... I needed to work. I had medical bills from the skin grafts. I never wanted a reward."
"You deserve the world," Alexander said, his demeanor completely shifted from the intimidating titan of industry to a humble, grateful man. "I spent three years looking for the woman who saved my life. I had investigators, private detectives, the works. I thought you had vanished into thin air."
"I was just trying to survive," Maya said quietly.
Alexander pulled out his phone and made one call. Within minutes, the owner of the restaurant appeared, apologizing profusely to Maya, offering her a promotion to management—or, as Alexander corrected him, "Whatever she wants."
"I want out of this place," Maya said, her voice gaining strength.
May you like
"Done," Alexander replied. "I’m funding your degree. I’m covering your medical expenses. And you have a standing offer at Vance Global. If you want to run my logistics, my philanthropic arm, or just sit on the board, it’s yours. You have the heart that this company needs."
Vanessa, who had been lingering by the door, hoping for a shred of sympathy, watched the scene from a distance. She saw the true power dynamics of the world: power wasn't about the dress you wore or the charity event you hosted. It was about character. And she had none.
