It's Payback Time, Mr. CEO — Novel

About

In a world where secrets entwine like ivy, Tracie Whitaker stands at a crossroads, torn between a past she’s spent years concealing and a future that threatens to unravel. The daughter of a powerful family, she has lived a life of independence, crafting her own identity away from her family's shadow. But when the facade begins to crack amid mockery and betrayal, she realizes that the truth cannot stay buried forever.

As Tracie grapples with her decision to return home and reclaim her rightful place in the family business, she faces an unexpected dilemma. Her boyfriend, Daniel, is oblivious to the storm brewing beneath the surface. He believes he knows her, but how can she trust someone who has built a life on deceit? When a financial disaster strikes, and desperation drives Daniel to make hasty decisions, Tracie must confront not only her feelings but also the reality of their relationship.

With stakes rising and tensions flaring, can Tracie find the strength to reclaim her life without losing herself in the process? Or will the very people she thought she knew turn out to be the ones who hurt her the most? In a game of power and payback, the question lingers: how far will she go to protect her heart?

It's Payback Time, Mr. CEOChapter 1

I excused myself from the table, feeling the weight of the laughter behind me, the taunts piercing through the air like daggers. I needed to escape, even if only for a moment. I stepped into the quiet of the hallway, my hands trembling as I reached for my phone.

The screen lit up with my parents’ number, staring back at me like a lifeline I’d been hesitant to grab. I’d been avoiding this call for a while, but tonight everything had changed. I could no longer pretend.

After a brief hesitation, I pressed the call button.

“Tracie?” My mother’s voice was soft, surprised. “Is everything okay?”

I inhaled deeply, my voice steady but with a quiet resolve. “Mom, Dad... I’ve made my decision. I’m coming home. I’m ready to take over the business.”

There was a moment of silence on the other end before my father’s voice cut through. “Finally! We’ve been waiting for you to return, sweetheart. Does this mean you’ve told your boyfriend the truth?”

My heart stung at the mention of Daniel, but I forced myself to answer. “No. I’ll break up with him.”

My mother’s voice was filled with concern. “Are you sure? You’ve been with him for so long…”