Chapter 4 - The Corporate TrapThe following week, the business world buzzed with anticipation. The annual Nwosu-Eze Conglomerate Gala was set to take place at the Transcorp Hilton, a glittering summit where the multi-billion-dollar merger between my father’s firm and Chidi’s empire was scheduled to be officially finalized.
My stepmother Ngozi and my stepsister Adaeze treated the week like a royal coronation. They had spent thousands on custom gowns, gloating openly in our family living room.
“Enjoy playing nurse while it lasts, Adaeze,” my stepsister had sneered over breakfast. “Once the merger is signed, Chidi’s assets are fully consolidated, and your father will kick you out of that mansion with nothing.”
They had no idea what was waiting for them at the gala.
On the night of the event, Chidi and I arrived in absolute silence. I wore a midnight-blue silk gown that mirrored the colors of The Blue Woman, while Chidi wore an immaculate charcoal tuxedo. As we walked into the grand ballroom, hundreds of elite guests turned to stare.
Chief Eze hurried forward, beaming with greasy, triumphant arrogance.
“Chidi! Magnificent turnout!” Chief Eze declared, clapping Chidi on the shoulder. He glanced at me with utter contempt. “And Adaeze... looking surprisingly presentable for a girl raised in a dusty studio.”
Chidi didn't smile. He slowly raised his hand, gently brushing Chief Eze’s hand off his shoulder.
“Uncle,” Chidi said, his voice ringing clearly across the quietening room through his lapel mic. “Before we sign the merger documents tonight, there is a small exhibition I think our esteemed guests should witness.”
May you like
Chief Eze’s smile flickered. “Chidi, this is a business gala, not an art auction—”
“Bring out the canvas,” Chidi commanded.
