Chapter 1: The Reality Check
The heavy mahogany doors didn't just open; they were pushed wide by two men in impeccably tailored black suits. Behind them stood Marcus, the Head of Corporate Security for Sterling Global—the parent company of the firm Brendan was supposed to "run."
Marcus’s eyes scanned the room, instantly locking onto me. He completely ignored Brendan, who was puffing out his chest, trying to look imposing.
"Ms. Sterling," Marcus said, his deep voice slicing through the tense air. He took off his earpiece and bowed his head slightly. "Are you hurt, ma'am? The legal department has the local PD on standby if you want to press assault charges."
Brendan blinked, the color draining from his face. "Ms. Sterling? What the hell are you talking about, Marcus? Her last name is Miller. And she’s my ex-wife. Throw her out!"
Marcus didn't even blink. "Shut your mouth, Mr. Morrison. You are speaking to the CEO, majority shareholder, and sole owner of Sterling Global. Your boss."
Jessica let out a nervous squeak. Diane’s wine glass slipped from her hand, shattering on the pristine floor.
"That's impossible," Diane gasped, clutching her pearls. "She's a nobody! A gold-digger!"
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"Protocol 7 is in effect, Marcus," I said calmly, stepping away from the puddle of dirty water. "Collect company property."
"With pleasure, ma'am," Marcus replied. He turned to Brendan. "Keys to the Mercedes, the corporate credit cards, the company laptop, and your secure access badge. Now. You are officially terminated for gross misconduct and embezzlement. You have ten seconds before my guys take them by force."
