Chapter 12 - Echoes of the Past
At the Manhattan St. Regis, Claire and Marcus reviewed the security protocols for tomorrow's grand opening. Marcus’s private intelligence team confirmed that Carter Vance had formed an unholy alliance with Richard Vance, Claire’s disgraced former employer.
"They’ve acquired a 5% shadow stake through offshore front companies," Marcus reported, pouring two glasses of scotch. "They intend to trigger a short-sell run on Apex stock tomorrow morning by claiming the flagship's land deed is fraudulent."
"Let them try," Claire replied, her voice smooth as velvet. "The original deed was countersigned by the city council three months ago. If they attempt to drop fake title claims at the press conference, it becomes outright securities fraud."
Suddenly, Claire’s personal phone rang. It was an unlisted number. She answered on speaker.
May you like
"Claire," Richard’s voice rasped through the line, laced with bitter toxicity. "You look cozy on the news. But remember who made you. You were nothing before I gave you a desk."
"And you are nothing now, Richard," Claire said coolly. "Enjoy watching the launch from your television." She hung up without giving him another second of her time.
