Chapter 5 - Victoria’s Offer
Two days before the yacht celebration, Victoria visited the café alone.
She wore sunglasses despite the cloudy weather and placed a white envelope on the counter.
Inside were ten thousand dollars in cash.
Emily did not touch it.
“What is this?”
“A chance to improve your life.”
“In exchange for what?”
Victoria removed her sunglasses.
“Stay away from Richard.”
Emily almost laughed.
Richard had never interested her romantically. His attention had only made it easier to investigate him.
“Did he tell you something happened between us?”
“He said you misunderstood his kindness.”
“Then why pay me?”
Victoria leaned closer.
“Because women like you sometimes invent stories when wealthy men lose interest.”
Emily looked at the envelope.
“You think money can erase anything.”
“It usually does.”
Emily pushed the envelope back.
“Keep it.”
Victoria’s expression hardened.
“You should understand your position. Richard and I are getting married. When we do, I will control Mercer Holdings.”
“Are you sure?”
Victoria froze.
Emily continued cleaning the counter.
“Your grandfather’s trust might contain conditions.”
“My grandfather trusted me.”
“Did he?”
Victoria’s cheeks reddened.
“You know nothing about my family.”
Emily looked directly at her.
“I know Samuel Mercer built the company himself. I know he believed every employee deserved dignity. And I know he would have hated the way you speak to people.”
Victoria slapped the counter with her palm.
“You don’t get to say his name.”
Several customers turned to look.
Victoria lowered her voice.
“You are coming to the yacht celebration tomorrow. Richard wants you there because investors like stories about ordinary workers. Smile, thank us for inviting you, and remember who owns the boat.”
Emily folded the envelope and returned it.
“I’ll remember.”
As Victoria walked away, Emily sent Natalie a message.
They are moving tomorrow. Get the order signed.
May you like
Natalie replied:
The judge approved it this morning.
