Chapter 2: The Secret Beneath the Empire
Chapter 2: The Secret Beneath the Empire
The family's attorney, Charles Bennett, slowly stood.
"There is something everyone deserves to know."
Victoria turned sharply.
"Sit down."
He didn't.
"For thirty-five years I have represented Sterling Holdings."
His voice echoed through the ballroom.
"I can no longer remain silent."
Guests exchanged nervous glances.
Charles removed several sealed documents from his briefcase.
"The Sterling fortune wasn't built honestly."
Victoria's breathing became shallow.
"Don't."
"The company acquired dozens of family businesses through forged contracts, manipulated debts, and illegal intimidation."
Journalists invited to cover the wedding quietly activated their cameras.
Charles continued.
"Several executives attempted to expose these actions."
He paused.
"They disappeared from the company within weeks."
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The ballroom no longer felt like a wedding.
It felt like a courtroom.
