Chapter 24
Chapter 25: The Gala of Vipers
The annual Metropolitan Charity Gala was a masterpiece of high-society theater. Crystal chandeliers dripped with light, and the room buzzed with the hushed, predatory conversations of the city's elite.
Elena glided through the room in a stunning, deep-emerald gown. She played her part perfectly, projecting the exact image of a CEO under siege. She allowed her shoulders to drop a fraction of an inch, letting out carefully timed, heavy sighs when she knew Victor’s board members were watching.
She cornered Arthur Vance, Victor’s oldest and most cautious investor, near the champagne tower. The ambient noise of the gala faded into a tense, isolated bubble.
"Arthur," Elena said, her voice laced with manufactured fatigue. "I know Victor is planning the proxy vote for tomorrow. I just hope you understand the liabilities you are inheriting."
Arthur raised an eyebrow. "Liabilities, Elena? Your balance sheets are pristine."
May you like
"Mine are," she agreed, stepping closer, holding his gaze with absolute intensity. "But I wonder if Victor has been as transparent with you about his impending Department of Justice indictments as I have been with my board. Check the offshore accounts, Arthur. Before tomorrow morning."
She walked away, leaving the seed of doubt planted deep in the fertile soil of their greed.
