Chapter 6 - Shadows of the Past
Two weeks later.
The high-rise office of Sterling Enterprises was silent save for the soft hum of the city below.
Alexander sat behind his massive oak desk, reviewing the final legal documents prepared by his attorneys. The corporate board had unanimously voted to reappoint Alexander as sole Chairman, stripping Victoria of all executive authority and revoking her stock voting rights permanently.
A knock sounded at the door, and Lauren stepped inside.
She looked transformed. Her skin had recovered its healthy color, her dark hair shone beneath the office lights, and she wore an elegant cream-colored suit. But despite the luxury restored to her, her eyes remained grounded, warm, and gentle.
"Sophia is downstairs with Mrs. Gable in the play area," Lauren smiled, walking over to his desk. "She thinks the fountain in the lobby is a magical wishing well."
Alexander smiled—a real, genuine smile that hadn't touched his face in years. He stood up, coming around the desk to wrap his arms around her waist.
"How are you holding up, Lauren?" he asked softly.
"It still feels like a dream sometimes," she admitted, resting her head against his chest. "For three years, I woke up every morning wondering if I would have enough money to buy milk for Sophia. Now... I wake up and see you."
"The legal team finished the trust paperwork today," Alexander said, gesturing to the documents on his desk. "Ten million dollars has been placed into an irrevocable trust for Sophia. And the remaining assets recovered from Victoria's accounts have been transferred directly into your name."
Lauren shook her head gently. "I don't care about the money, Alexander. I only ever wanted our family back."
"I know," Alexander whispered, kissing her lips softly. "And no one will ever touch us again."
Suddenly, the intercom on Alexander's desk buzzed.
"Mr. Sterling?" his secretary's voice came through. "Your mother's defense attorney is on line one. He says Mrs. Victoria Sterling is requesting a meeting with you at the county detention center before her trial begins."
May you like
Alexander looked at Lauren. Her hand tightened slightly on his arm, but she gave him a reassuring nod.
"Tell him I will be there in twenty minutes," Alexander said into the intercom.
