Chapter 2 – The Deal Is Off
Chapter 2 – The Deal Is Off
The ballroom fell silent.
Daniel followed Emily's gaze.
The elderly butler stood perfectly still near the entrance, white gloves folded neatly behind his back.
For years, Daniel had barely noticed him.
Tonight was different.
Emily spoke calmly.
"Mr. Collins."
The butler bowed his head.
"Yes, Miss Carter."
Three simple words.
Not Mrs. Bennett.
Not Mrs. Hayes.
Not even ma'am.
Miss Carter.
A murmur spread across the ballroom.
Daniel frowned.
"What is this?"
Emily never looked at him.
"Please tell my father..."
She paused just long enough for every guest to listen.
"...the deal is off."
Mr. Collins inclined his head once.
"I'll inform him immediately."
He reached into his jacket, removed a secure phone, and quietly placed a call.
"Sir."
A brief pause.
"Yes."
"Miss Carter has withdrawn her approval."
Another pause.
"I understand."
He ended the call.
Nothing dramatic happened.
No shouting.
No threats.
Only silence.
Then Daniel's phone vibrated.
He glanced at the screen.
The smile vanished from his face.
Strategic Partnership Suspended.
He frowned.
A second notification appeared.
Emergency Board Meeting – Effective Immediately.
A third.
Primary Investors Request Immediate Review.
Vanessa grabbed his arm.
"Daniel..."
"What does that mean?"
He couldn't answer.
Because for the first time...
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He realized Emily hadn't been speaking to a butler.
She had been speaking to the only person in the room who could reach the man financing his future.
