CHAPTER 9: Facing the Lions
Julian called a mandatory joint press conference at the Sterling Capital headquarters, inviting every major news outlet, financial analyst, and high-society reporter in the metropolitan area.
The auditorium was packed to capacity, camera flashes blinding every square inch of the stage. Victoria and her father sat in the VIP front row, having arrived uninvited with high-powered attorneys, confident that Julian was about to announce a massive financial settlement or resign under public pressure.
Julian stepped up to the podium, wearing a dark bespoke suit. Beside him, dressed in an elegant, understated cream dress, was Marisa, holding Valentina’s small hand. The little girl carried her favorite plush rabbit, looking curiously at the sea of flashing lights.
A barrage of shouted questions erupted instantly.
Julian raised a single hand, and the room fell into an expectant hush.
"For the past week, many of you have speculated on the integrity of my family and the future of Sterling Capital," Julian began, his voice ringing clear and authoritative across the auditorium speakers. "You have published rumors, questioned character, and attempted to turn a private blessing into a public weapon."
He paused, looking directly at Senator Vance in the front row.
"I am here today not to defend my family, but to establish their place. Effective immediately, twenty-five percent of my personal equity in Sterling Capital is transferred to an irrevocable trust for my daughter, Valentina Sterling. Furthermore, I am stepping down as Chairman of the Board to establish the Sterling-Morales Foundation, dedicated to supporting single working mothers and providing legal protection for domestic workers against corporate exploitation."
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Gasps rippled across the journalists. Cameras whirred wildly.
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