Chapter 6 - Everything Is Mine
Robert could have stopped.
He could have lowered his voice, taken Evelyn aside, or postponed his announcement.
Pride would not allow it.
He turned toward the guests.
“For years, Evelyn has enjoyed a life I built,” he declared. “I have decided to move forward. Marla and I will be together, and I will continue leading the company without unnecessary interference.”
Several board members exchanged glances.
Evelyn remained motionless.
Robert mistook their silence for agreement.
He faced her again.
“The company and everything else are mine.”
Evelyn slowly removed a small black phone from beneath her lace shawl.
Robert laughed.
“Who are you calling? Your assistant?”
Evelyn pressed one number.
Margaret answered immediately.
“He finally did it,” Evelyn said.
That was all.
Robert’s smile faded slightly.
“What does that mean?”
Evelyn ended the call.
“It means you have confirmed your intentions in front of the board, our investors, and approximately ninety witnesses.”
Marla leaned toward Robert.
“Why is she so calm?”
Robert ignored her.
“You have no authority over the company.”
A voice came from behind the guests.
“She has more authority than anyone here.”
Margaret Harrison stepped onto the sand carrying a sealed folder.
People moved aside for her.
Robert recognized Evelyn’s attorney immediately. Years earlier, Margaret had handled the trust agreement Robert barely remembered signing.
The color began to drain from his face.
Margaret approached with measured steps.
She handed him the folder.
“Mr. Carter,” she said, “we have a problem.”
Robert tore it open.
As he read, his breathing became shallow.
Marla stared over his shoulder.
The pages described frozen accounts, forged signatures, unauthorized transfers, and Evelyn’s controlling ownership.
“This is impossible,” Robert whispered.
“No,” Margaret replied. “It is documented.”
“You said everything was yours,” Marla said.
Robert looked desperately at Evelyn.
“You planned this.”
May you like
Evelyn turned toward the water.
“No, Robert. You planned it. I simply prepared for it.”
