Chapter 9 - The Return of the Queen
As the heavy doors slammed shut behind Grant Holloway, an uncanny silence settled over Bellweather House.
The socialites and executives who had watched Claire get shoved onto the floor stood completely still, mortified by their own previous complicity. Then, slowly, Roman Vale turned to face the room.
He didn't yell. He didn't threaten. He simply let his lethal gaze sweep across every wealthy face in attendance until several prominent CEOs looked down in shame.
"The board of Bennett Logistics is officially dissolved," Roman announced with commanding authority. "By federal court order and majority share restructuring through Vale Meridian, all original intellectual property, domestic shipping lines, and sovereign assets have been returned to their sole founder."
Roman turned back to Claire, offering his arm with genuine courtliness.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Roman said, his voice ringing with pure steel, "allow me to re-introduce the Chief Executive Officer and majority owner of Bennett-Vale Global. Miss Claire Bennett."
A lone person began clapping near the back. Within seconds, the applause erupted into a thunderous standing ovation that echoed up to the chandeliers. The very people who had watched Grant mock her were now desperate to earn her favor.
Claire looked around the magnificent room. The pain of the last six months, the sleepless nights, the tears she had cried in secret—all of it dissolved into a profound, unshakeable peace.
She turned to Roman, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, but this time they were tears of triumph.
"Thank you, Roman," she whispered.
Roman looked down at her, a rare, faint smile touching the corner of his lips. "You did the work, Claire. I just provided the battlefield."
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