Chapter 4 - The Poisoned Chalice
With Cross Capital’s stock in a freefall, Damian and Evelyn resorted to desperate measures.
They arranged a secret meeting with Marcus Sterling, a ruthless venture capitalist known for hostile takeovers. If Sterling bought a massive block of Cross Capital’s remaining public shares, they could dilute Isabella’s voting power and regain control.
"I can bail you out, Damian," Sterling said, leaning back in his leather chair at an exclusive private club. "But it will cost you. I want 40% of the company's remaining equity, and I want Vanessa Hale out. She's a PR liability."
Sitting in the corner, Vanessa's heart sank. She looked at Damian, waiting for him to defend her, to protect the woman who had stood by his side through the scandal.
Damian didn't even hesitate. "Done. Vanessa is gone. Just get us the capital by tomorrow morning."
Vanessa stared at him, the illusion finally shattering. He didn't love her. He didn't even value her. To Damian Cross, people were merely shields to be discarded when the bullets got too close.
Quietly, Vanessa slipped out of the room.
Two hours later, she was sitting in a dimly lit coffee shop, pushing a flash drive across the table to Isabella.
"Everything," Vanessa whispered, her voice shaking with tears of betrayal. "The off-shore accounts, the double-ledger books Evelyn kept for the charity galas, and the secret agreements with Marcus Sterling. He threw me away like trash, Isabella."
May you like
Isabella looked at the flash drive, then up at Vanessa. There was no pity in her eyes, but there was a quiet, mutual understanding of the monster they had both dealt with.
"I know," Isabella said softly. "Men like Damian only value people as long as they are useful. Thank you, Vanessa. You’ve just handed me the final nail."
