Chapter 9 - The Queen’s CoronationTwenty-four hours later.
The storm outside Sterling House had cleared, leaving the sprawling limestone estate bathed in the warm, golden glow of a crisp autumn afternoon.
Inside the private executive study, the heavy double doors were locked.
Adrian Sterling sat at his desk, but he wasn't looking at financial ledgers anymore. He was watching Maya, who stood by the tall arched window, looking out over the manicured lawns. She had changed out of her maid’s uniform into a sharp, elegant ivory blazer and tailored trousers.
“The board accepted Blake’s emergency resignation this morning,” Adrian said softly, leaning back in his chair. “And the federal investigators confirmed that your audit report was the cleanest, most airtight case of corporate fraud they’ve seen in a decade.”
Maya turned around, offering a gentle, professional smile. “Justice tends to be simple when you follow the numbers, Mr. Sterling.”
Adrian stood up, walking slowly across the Persian rug until he stopped right in front of her.
“You know, Maya,” Adrian murmured, his slate-gray eyes softening with deep, undeniable warmth, “my mother told me she picked you because she wanted to rattle the socialites. But I think she knew all along that you were the only person strong enough to run this empire by my side.”
Maya looked up into his eyes, her heart skipping a beat. “Is that an executive proposal, Mr. Sterling?”
Adrian smiled, gently taking her hand. “Only if you agree to drop the ‘Mr. Sterling’ part permanently.”
Just then, the study door clicked open.
May you like
Victoria Sterling stepped inside, wearing a diamond brooch and a triumphant smirk. She looked at the two of them standing close together, and her smile widened.
“Well,” Victoria chuckled softly. “It seems my little housemaid has finally cleared out the trash. Shall we begin planning the wedding reception, children? I believe we have a few million newly recovered dollars to spend.”
