Chapter 90
“Finn Sterling doesn’t need to answer such ridiculous accusations,” I say, stepping into my role with confidence. “He wasn’t
fighting for his life to save them. He was fighting to prove his innocence,”
William’s gaze shifts to me, his eyes narrowing. “And what exactly would you know about my son’s motivations, Ms.
Lancaster?”
“I know that this family has a habit of assuming the worst about him without evidence,” I reply, my voice steady and controlled. “It seems unfair to accuse someone of orchestrating a kidnapping when they’re the one covered in blood.”
One of the board members, a woman with a severe bob and diamond earrings the size of quarters, scoffs. “Given his history, suspicion is perfectly reasonable.”
“Is it?” I challenge, keeping my tone measured despite the artificial outrage I’m projecting. “Then I suppose you’d also believe I nearly drowned in the Hudson River on Sophia’s orders?”
“Hannah,” Sophia says, her voice softening to a wounded tone, “I understand you’re upset on Finn’s behalf, but making wild accusations helps no one. We’re all family here.”
The patronizing tone is exactly what I expected. I maintain my controlled expression while mentally preparing for the dramatic highlight of our performance.
“Mr. Sterling,” I say, turning to William. I catch Amy’s eye, and she tosses a cushion on the floor right on cue. I drop to my knees with calculated drama. “Your prejudice has caused him more pain than these wounds ever could.”
The room goes utterly still. Victoria and I exchange a brief glance–this was the centerpiece of our plan, and it’s working
perfectly.
“I’m formally requesting that you remove both Finn Sterling’s names from the Sterling family registry,” I continue, my voice clear in the stunned silence. “The constant suspicion and accusations are destroying him.”
“What nonsense are you spouting?” William roars, his face flushing with anger.
“How many of these accusations against Finn have actual evidence?” I ask, looking around the room. “Has anyone in this family ever given him the benefit of the doubt?”
No one answers. Several board members shift uncomfortably in their seats, exactly the response we were hoping for.
“You don’t want Finn to be the Sterling heir,” I say, softening my voice for effect. “For five years, he’s held the title of heir apparent, yet you’ve only allowed him to handle marginal matters and those underground dealings no one wants to touch. Not once have the board members truly supported him. If that’s all he means to this family, perhaps it would be better for him to leave the Sterling name behind entirely!”
C
13
1/2
16:46 Wed, May 13
Chapter 90
“That’s enough!” William thunders, but I can tell from the board members‘ expressions that our message has landed. They’re exchanging glances, reassessing the situation–precisely as Victoria and I had anticipated.
Victoria steps forward right on cue, her timing impeccable. “Now, now, Hannah dear, things aren’t quite that dire, she says, her tone falsely soothing. “Finn has shown potential, but he still has much to learn about proper business operations. Perhaps it’s time he joined some of our core departments for proper training.”
The board members quickly nod in agreement, recognizing their cue. “Yes, yes,” one says eagerly, “let the young man observe our finance division.” Another chimes in, “The acquisitions team could use a fresh perspective.”
I watch understanding dawn on the faces around the room. Our “heroic rescue” narrative is working perfectly–it was never just about clearing Finn’s name but Victoria’s strategic play to get him back into power.
“You think I haven’t given him chances?” William says, his voice dripping with contempt. “I’ve offered him legitimate positions numerous times. He’s the one who proved himself incompetent!”
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Olivia Harris is an emerging author celebrated for her captivating romantic and steamy novels. With a talent for crafting deep emotional connections and fiery chemistry between her characters, Olivia’s stories offer readers an escape into worlds filled with passion, intrigue, and heart-stopping drama.

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