Chapter 10 - The Secret Clause
The lodge was closed to the public for the next forty-eight hours as federal investigators combed through Thomas’s offices. The atmosphere was electric with the scandal, but under Marcus’s meticulous management, the staff kept the resort running flawlessly for the remaining VIP guests.
I sat in the penthouse study, a roaring fire warming the room, pouring over the final, legitimate ledgers. Liam sat across from me, nursing a glass of scotch.
“You pulled off a miracle, Elena,” Liam said, raising his glass. “The SEC confirmed the asset reclamation. The company is solvent. You have full control of the board.”
“It doesn't feel like a miracle,” I sighed, rubbing my temples. “It feels like a massive betrayal. My own blood tried to destroy me for a payout.”
Liam set his glass down and leaned forward. “There’s something you need to know about that, Elena. While we were auditing Thomas’s safe, I found a sealed envelope addressed to you. From your grandfather.”
My heart skipped a beat. Liam pulled a heavy, cream-colored envelope from his jacket and slid it across the mahogany desk. The wax seal bore the Sterling family crest. It had never been broken.
I picked it up with trembling fingers, broke the seal, and unfolded the heavy parchment.
My Dearest Elena, If you are reading this, it means Thomas has made his move, and you have survived it. I am sorry to have left you in the dark, my brave girl. But I always knew Thomas was a snake. I knew he was stealing, but I didn't have the proof before my health failed.
May you like
Tears blurred my vision as I read my grandfather’s familiar, elegant script.
I could have fired him, but he would have just found another way to tear the company apart from the outside. So, I set a trap. I left the internal security intentionally weak. I left the bylaws vague enough for him to exploit. I gave him enough rope to hang himself. But I needed someone strong enough to kick the chair out from under him. I knew you would come to Aspen undercover. I knew you would find the rot. You have passed the final test, Elena. You are the true heir to the Sterling Empire. Rule it with an iron fist and a gracious heart. Forever proud, Arthur Sterling.
