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The silence that fell over the Grand Lydian ballroom was absolute. In high society, gossip traveled like wildfire, but shock traveled like lightning. / Chapter 4 / 20

Chapter 4 - The Leak

Nathaniel looked at Vivien, really looked at her, seeing past the designer clothes and the polished pedigree to the cold pragmatism beneath.

"There will be no denial," Nathaniel said quietly.

Vivien stepped into the room, her eyes widening in disbelief. "Are you insane? You're going to validate a home-wrecker's stunt? Those children could belong to anyone! Women like that—"

"Watch your mouth, Vivien," Nathaniel warned, his voice dropping into a chilling monotone. "You are talking about my children."

"Your children?" Vivien let out a sharp, hysterical laugh. "You haven't even seen the DNA results! You are throwing away a multi-billion-dollar alliance, a dynasty, and our entire future over a sentimental delusion because some bitter ex walked in with three kids who happen to have gray eyes!"

"It's over, Vivien," Nathaniel said, the words final and absolute. "Call off the wedding. Have your father's lawyers draft the dissolution of the engagement. My assistant will wire the compensation fee for the canceled venue and public relations fallout by morning."

Vivien stared at him, her chest heaving. The veneer of perfection finally shattered, revealing a look of pure, unadulterated venom. "You think you can humiliate me? The Lockwood family built half of Wall Street, Nathaniel. You think we'll just quietly pack our bags and walk away while you play domestic hero with a nobody?"

"If you attempt to wage a PR war against my children," Nathaniel said, stepping forward until he towered over her, "I will dismantle your father's shipping empire before the closing bell rings tomorrow. Try me."

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Vivien backed away slowly, her eyes darting between Nathaniel and Elena. "You'll regret this. Both of you. You think you've won, but the board will never let an illegitimate brood inherit Cross Industries. Your mother will make sure of that."

The door slammed shut behind her, echoing through the penthouse like a gunshot.

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