Chapter 8: The Trap Set
Chapter 8: The Trap Set
The glass-and-steel tower of Vance Global Headquarters stood tall against the Manhattan skyline, its mirrored facade reflecting the gray morning sky. At 8:45 AM, black luxury town cars streamed into the subterranean parking garage, delivering board members and executive shareholders.
Inside the sprawling 40th-floor boardroom, Victor Vance sat at the head of a mahogany conference table, calmly sipping an espresso. He wore a impeccably tailored gray suit, his demeanor cool and oozing confidence.
"Everything is in place, sir," his assistant whispered near his ear. "The board members have signed the preliminary proxy motions. Julian will be removed as CEO by 9:15 AM."
"Excellent," Victor murmured softly. "Where is my nephew?"
"He has just entered the building," the assistant replied. "He is accompanied by... Clara Montgomery."
Victor’s eyebrows twitched slightly, a flash of annoyance crossing his sharp features before he forced a placid smile. "Let them in. Let them watch their empire crumble."
The heavy double doors of the boardroom swung open. Julian walked in, his presence commanding and unfazed. Beside him walked Clara, dressed in an elegant ivory blazer, holding a slender leather portfolio. Behind them walked Evelyn Vance.
A collective hush fell over the assembled board members. Several executives exchanged anxious glances upon seeing Evelyn, knowing her reputation as a ruthless corporate attorney.
"Evelyn," Victor said, standing up with an easy smile. "What a surprise. I didn't realize my daughter was taking an interest in routine corporate governance."
"I'm not here as your daughter, Victor," Evelyn replied crisply, taking a seat at the far end of the table. "I am here as legal counsel representing Clara Montgomery and the Estate of Arthur Montgomery."
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Victor’s smile faltered for a fraction of a second. "This is a private executive session. Ms. Montgomery has no standing in this room."
"She has every standing, Uncle," Julian interjected, pulling out a chair for Clara before taking his own seat at the center of the table. "Because before you call for a vote to remove me, Clara has a presentation regarding the missing eighty million dollars."
