Chapter 8 - The Desperate Visit
At two o'clock that afternoon, the front desk security at the Vance Capital Tower called up to Meredith’s private office.
"Mrs. Vance, your father and sister are downstairs in the lobby," the secretary reported. "They are demanding to see you. Mr. Campbell claims it is a family emergency."
Meredith looked out her window at the Boston skyline, her face serene. "Send them up. But inform security to screen them thoroughly."
Ten minutes later, the heavy frosted-glass doors of Meredith’s corner office opened.
Richard Campbell and Allison stepped inside. They looked completely unrecognizable from the night before. Richard’s tuxedo was gone, replaced by a rumpled, unironed business suit. His eyes were red-rimmed and sunken from a sleepless night.
Allison had replaced her wedding dress with plain jeans and a sweater, her hair pulled back into a messy ponytail. Her face was pale, devoid of any makeup, her eyes swollen from hours of crying.
They stood near the entrance, looking nervously at the magnificent leather furniture, modern art, and sweeping views of the city.
Meredith sat behind a massive black granite desk, flanked by two imposing security officers. She didn't stand up. She simply folded her hands on the desk and looked at them.
"You have five minutes," Meredith said neutrally.
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"Meredith... please," Richard choked out, taking a step forward before the security guards held up a hand. "You have to help us! The bank called this morning! They're foreclosing on the family mansion! They're repossessing Allison's car!"
"And Edward’s family canceled the marriage!" Allison sobbed, her arrogance completely shattered. "His parents forced him to break off the engagement this morning! They said the Vance name can't be associated with bankrupt fraudsters! My life is over, Meredith!"
