The grand entrance hall of the Hawthorne Mansion was filled with tension - Insight
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Chapter 10 / 30
Chapter 10 - Shadows at the GateDespite her public ruin, Victoria refused to accept defeat. Driven by humiliation and hatred, she sought out someone who shared her bitterness: Richard Hawthorne, Alexander’s estranged cousin who had been cast out of the family years ago for embezzlement.
In a dimly lit restaurant on the outskirts of the city, Victoria met with Richard.
"Alexander thinks he’s untouchable because he holds the company," Richard sneered, swirling his whiskey. "But everything relies on Eleanor’s share of the inheritance. If that old woman loses her mind—or her life—the shares go into probate."
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Victoria’s eyes narrowed. "What are you suggesting?"
"I'm suggesting we take away the one thing Alexander values more than his money," Richard whispered darkly.
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Chapter 11 - The Gala InvitationA week later, the annual City Charity Gala was held at the Grand Hotel. It was an event where the city's most influential figures gathered.
Chapter 12 - The Whispered WarningAs the waiter moved through the crowd toward Eleanor and Sarah, Sarah’s sharp eyes noticed something subtle. The waiter’s hands were trembling slightly, and he kept his gaze fixed strictly on one specific glass on his tray.
Chapter 13 - Caught in the ActThe loud crash of breaking glass drew the attention of nearby guests and security guards. The waiter turned and tried to bolt toward the kitchen exit, but Alexander’s security team tackled him to the floor within seconds.
Chapter 14 - The Hunt for RichardPolice sirens cut through the night air as law enforcement raided Richard’s luxury apartment, but he had already fled. He had realized the plan failed the moment the waiter was detained.
Chapter 15 - The Traitor WithinAn investigation into Richard’s recent contacts revealed a shocking connection: he hadn't been acting alone. Victoria had provided the funds to bribe the hotel staff and help Richard evade security.
Chapter 16 - End of the RoadIt wasn't just the police waiting for Victoria—Alexander was standing beside the lead detective.
