Chapter 13: The Forgotten Heir
Clara thought Eleanor was confused.
She was not.
Thomas Bennett had discovered the stolen trust funds while managing an investment partnership with Adrian’s grandfather. T
o guarantee his silence, the Blackwood family had offered him a hidden ownership share in Blackthorn Palace.
Thomas refused the money but secretly transferred the share into a trust for Clara.
Marcus tried to destroy the document.
Eleanor preserved the original will.
“You knew who I was when I was hired,” Clara said.
“Yes.”
“Did you bring me here?”
“I approved your application, but I did not plan what happened at the gala.”
Clara felt betrayed all over again.
“You watched me work as a maid inside a palace I partially owned.”
“I was waiting until I had enough evidence to restore your father’s name.”
“You were waiting because you were afraid.”
Eleanor did not deny it.
Adrian offered to transfer Clara’s legal share immediately.
She refused.
“I don’t want a palace built on secrets.”
Before she could leave, Senator Ashford appeared on every television screen in the palace.
He was holding a press conference.
He accused Adrian, Eleanor, and Clara of fabricating evidence to seize his family’s assets. He claimed Victoria had been manipulated and threatened by the Blackwoods.
Then he announced that an emergency court order had frozen the Blackwood Foundation.
Reporters surrounded the palace gates.
Public opinion turned within hours.
Marcus was released temporarily after a judge questioned the evidence chain.
Victoria vanished from protective custody.
And just before dawn, Clara received a video message.
Victoria was tied to a chair.
May you like
Senator Ashford stood behind her.
“Bring me the original ledgers,” he said, “or my daughter pays for your father’s revenge.”
