Chapter 5 - Unraveling the Empire
The next morning, at 9:00 AM, the atmosphere in the grand Stanton mansion was chaotic.
Mark woke up with a pounding headache, frustrated that Claire hadn't returned to clean up the mess from last night’s disastrous dinner. The prospective investors had left early, visibly unimpressed by the missing hostess and the palpable tension in the house.
Patricia was sitting at the dining table, sipping her black coffee, complaining loudly to her husband, Edward.
“She is ungrateful, Edward!” Patricia snapped, fanning herself. “After everything we’ve done for her, taking her into our family despite her low background! To run off to a hospital over a small fever and humiliate us in front of the board members!”
“Shut up, Patricia,” Edward growled, staring nervously at his laptop. “The stock price for Stanton Global just dropped 15% in pre-market trading. And three of our major creditors are calling my phone non-stop.”
Mark walked into the room, adjusting his tie. “Don't worry, Dad. Claire will come crawling back today once she realizes she doesn't have a cent to her name. I’ll make her apologize to Mom, and then I’ll take control of whatever little savings account she has.”
Before Edward could answer, the heavy oak front doors of the mansion were pushed open.
Four men in suits walked into the foyer, led by Richard Sterling and two uniformed police officers. Behind them walked my father, Arthur Vance, dressed impeccably, with me walking confidently at his side.
Patricia stood up, outraged. “What is the meaning of this? How dare you break into my home! Who are these people, Claire?”
Mark stepped forward, his face turning red with anger. “Claire! What is wrong with you? Bringing strangers into my father’s house? Get out of here right now before I call the police!”
“You don't need to call the police, Mark,” I said calmly, stepping into the living room. “They are already here.”
Edward Stanton froze, his eyes widening in horror as he recognized my father. “M-Mr. Vance? Arthur Vance?”
Mark looked at his father, confused. “Dad? You know this man?”
May you like
“Know him?” Edward’s voice trembled, his face going pale. “He... he is the CEO and owner of Vance Enterprises!”
Patricia’s coffee cup slipped from her fingers, shattering on the marble floor.
