Chapter 5: The Heir's Threat
The next morning, the board of Vance Enterprises was scheduled to vote on a massive commercial buyout spearheaded by Julian. But Arthur didn't show up. Instead, he spent the morning in the sunlit kitchen, teaching Mia how to spread blueberry jam on warm toast.
Julian stormed into the private study later that afternoon, slamming the door.
"You missed the executive session, Arthur! The board is asking questions!"
"Let them ask," Arthur said calmly, sipping his black coffee. "My priorities have changed."
"You're being reckless!" Julian hissed, leaning over the oak desk. "You bring two homeless kids into this house and expect everyone to believe they are Clara’s? Have you even run a DNA test? Or are you letting senile guilt hand over our legacy to impostors?"
Arthur set his cup down slowly. The sheer coldness in his eyes made Julian step back.
May you like
"The test is being processed today," Arthur said evenly. "And if you ever raise your voice in this house again, Julian, your badge will be deactivated before you reach the front gate."
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