Chapter 3 - The Pretender's Shield
Vanessa's panic quickly turned into defensive malice. She stepped in front of Ethan, trying to shield him while using her influence to turn the crowd against Elena.
"You're insane!" Vanessa raised her voice, pointing an accusatory acrylic nail at Elena's face. "Security! Why is security letting this woman in? She's unhinged! She just assaulted the incoming Chief Executive Officer of Hayes Global Enterprises!"
Ethan cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure as he straightened his black bow tie. He forced a stern, authoritative look onto his face, though the deep red handprint on his left cheek ruined the illusion.
"She's off her medication, everyone," Ethan announced loudly to the room, gesturing dismissively toward Elena. "I apologize for this scene. My wife has been struggling mentally since we initiated our legal separation. She came here tonight purely to sabotage the biggest contract of my life."
Several older board members exchanged uneasy glances. Some looked doubtful, while others murmured among themselves, wondering if Ethan's claims were true.
Elena let out a soft, musical laugh that carried zero warmth. "A legal separation, Ethan? You forged my signature on those papers three hours ago. You didn't even bother to change the handwriting style from your own notary scam last spring."
Vanessa's eyes flickered with a sudden spike of nervous anxiety. "Shut up! You don't know what you're talking about! Ethan earned his position through sheer talent and tireless dedication! You're just a leech who lived off his executive salary!"
"Earned it?" Elena took another step forward, her presence dominating the entire circle of onlookers. "Ethan didn't earn a single penny of his promotion. Every deal he closed, every account he signed, and every promotion he received over the last five years came from one specific person approving his file behind closed doors."
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Ethan chuckled bitterly, though his hands were shaking in his pockets. "And who would that be, Elena? Your imaginary benefactor?"
👉 Read Part 4 to find out who really gave Ethan his corporate empire!
