Chapter 10: The Looming Threat**
Peace, however, was fragile. Julian’s vindictive corporate rival, Richard Vance—who coincidentally headed a predatory conglomerate—uncovered Clara’s background.
Richard arranged a private meeting with Clara at a quiet coffee shop outside town.
"Miss Vance," Richard purred, sliding a sleek manila folder across the table. "You share my last name, though we are distant kin. But business is business. Give me access to Julian Sterling’s private acquisitions ledger in his study, and I’ll wire two million dollars to your account. Refuse, and I’ll publicly frame you as an industrial spy hired to infiltrate his home."
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Clara felt a chill run down her spine. The stakes were no longer just her job; Julian's empire and her own integrity were on the line.
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