I signed every page. Initialed every margin. Margaret watched, triumphant, already mentally redecorating the guest house she’d promised us. ‘Smart girl,’ she purred. ‘I knew you’d see reason.’ I handed her the pen back, then reached into my clutch and pulled out a second folder. Cream linen. Embossed. ‘Since we’re being thorough, Margaret, have your lawyer countersign this.’ She opened it. Her smile froze. It was a Letter of Intent from Halberd Capital — confirming the acquisition of Vance Family Enterprises, completed at 9 a.m. that morning. Eighteen months ago, after Daniel’s father died and Margaret started ‘managing’ the company into the ground, I’d quietly used my late grandfather’s trust to start buying distressed Vance debt through a shell. By the time Margaret noticed the board seats slipping, I owned sixty-one percent. Daniel had known for six months. He’d begged me not to humiliate her. I’d promised I wouldn’t — unless she made me. ‘The prenup is binding,’ I said gently. ‘I waive all claim to Vance Enterprises. Of course I do. I already own it.’ Her champagne glass hit the carpet. ‘As of this morning, you are no longer Chairwoman. Your severance is generous. Your penthouse, unfortunately, was a company asset.’ The doors opened. Daniel stepped in, tuxedo crisp, eyes wet. He took my hand. ‘Mom,’ he said quietly, ‘you had three chances to be kind to her. You used all of them in the last twenty minutes.’ Margaret tried to speak. Nothing came out. I lifted my veil, kissed my soon-to-be husband, and walked past her toward the music. ‘The ceremony starts in ten,’ I called over my shoulder. ‘There’s a seat in the back if you’d like to stay. Just one.’
