“Valerie. Excellent to see you.”
Then, loudly enough for everyone nearby to hear:
“I’ve been telling my board about our joint development project all evening.”
My mother’s mouth fell open.
My father stared.
For nineteen years, they had apparently told people their oldest daughter was some troubled recluse.
They didn’t even know what company I owned.
Marcus stepped forward.
“You’re Valerie Vance?”
I nodded.
“My father talks about your firm constantly.”
“Nice to meet you.”
Chloe looked like she wanted the floor to open.
“Arthur, can we talk privately?”
“In a moment.”
I opened my portfolio.
“Actually, Arthur, before we sign anything tonight, there’s a compliance issue involving the foundation that I think you should review.”
Chloe moved instantly.
“That can wait.”
Arthur frowned.
“What issue?”
I removed a folder.
“As a future partner, I prefer transparency.”
Chloe reached for it.
Arthur’s counsel blocked her.
“What are you doing?” she snapped.
Arthur opened the folder.
Page one showed the missing funds.
Page two showed fake vendors.
Page three showed structured transfers.
The final pages linked the authorizations to Chloe’s corporate credentials.
Arthur’s expression darkened.
“What is this?”
