“Victor’s career skyrocketed.”
“His wife is… well. He’s clearly upgrading.”
“Vanessa is breathtaking. Those sapphires…”
I breathe in slowly.
This isn’t about revenge.
It’s about truth.
In the kitchen, I take out my phone and send a single message.
Now.
The reply comes seconds later.
Understood, Ms. Whitman. Ten minutes.
I lock the screen and return.
Victor stands near the fireplace, Vanessa displayed beside him like a trophy. He taps his glass.
“Friends, colleagues,” he announces proudly, “tonight I celebrate my promotion—Senior Executive Vice President for North America.”
Applause fills the room.
“I couldn’t have achieved this without loyalty,” he adds, glancing at me with a small, cruel smile. “People who understand their place.”
Laughter ripples uncertainly.
Vanessa laughs brightly, like coins clinking together.
“And of course,” Victor continues, “none of this would be possible without the vision of our parent company, Sterling International Group.”
He says the name reverently. Like it’s untouchable.
Like he’ll never stand close enough to control it.
I step forward with the tray.
“Not here,” he mutters sharply. “You’re blocking the view.”
I lower my eyes and move aside—but not far.