Chapter 7 - THE SHADOW IN THE REARVIEW MIRRORTwo weeks passed. The story of the "Christmas Eve Miracle at Mercer Tower" had swept through the local news, making national headlines. Emily had been appointed as the Director of Corporate Facilities, managing the entire building’s operations with dignity, fairness, and a salary that allowed her to move into a bright, two-bedroom apartment near a top-rated elementary school.
Lily had a bedroom full of books, new winter clothes, and a pink bed with fairy lights.
However, peace in the corporate world is rarely cheap.
On a rainy Thursday afternoon in mid-January, Emily was leaving the Mercer Tower parking garage when a dark sedan blocked the exit lane. A man stepped out, pulling down his umbrella.
It was corporate lawyer Victor Vance—the older brother of Greg Vance and Richard Sterling’s chief legal council.
Emily locked her car doors as Victor approached her window, tapping sharply on the glass.
Lowering the window an inch, Emily kept her voice steady. "Get away from my car, or I’m calling security."
"You think you’re untouchable now, don't you, Emily?" Victor sneered, his eyes narrow and hostile. "You think David Mercer is your knight in shining armor? You have no idea who you’re playing with. Greg and Richard aren't going to prison. The board of directors at Mercer Dynamics is already questioning David’s sanity for firing a VP over 'custodial pocket change.' They’re staging a coup, Emily. And when David is removed as CEO next week, you’ll be right back on the street digging through trash."
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Emily’s heart hammered against her ribs, but she didn't flinch. "David saved twelve families. Your brother stole from children. Get out of my way."
"Enjoy the high life while it lasts, Miss Harper," Victor whispered darkly. "Because fall comes very fast in this city."
