Chapter 5: Uncovering the Truth
The next morning, Julian met with his private investigator, David, inside his spacious top-floor office.
"Look into the financial records and labor complaints of L’Étoile," Julian instructed, sliding a file across the glass desk. "Specifically the head chef, Marcus Vance—no relation to Elena, but he uses his position to exploit vulnerable staff."
David opened the folder and scanned the notes. "Julian, this restaurant is owned by the Vance Hospitality Group. Did you know Elena’s late mother was actually Clara Vance, the estranged sister of the CEO, Arthur Vance?"
Julian paused, his dark eyes narrowing. "Explain."
"Clara was disowned twenty years ago when she refused to take part in the family’s illegal financial offshore schemes. She chose a quiet, humble life. When she died, her brother Arthur made sure her daughter Elena was kept in the dark about her rightful inheritance—which includes forty percent of the entire restaurant chain."
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Julian leaned back in his leather chair, processing the discovery. "So Marcus wasn't just a toxic boss. He was likely instructed by Arthur Vance to keep Elena broke, desperate, and powerless so she would never look into her mother's estate."
"Precisely," David nodded. "They are actively stealing her life."
