Chapter 7 - When Worlds CollideThe battle for the subsidiary reached its climax at the annual Pacific Northwest Business Gala—a black-tie event held aboard a private luxury yacht cruising the Columbia River.
Victoria needed to secure the final voting proxy from Sir Richard Hayes, a legendary billionaire investor who held the deciding 12% stake.
To everyone's surprise, Victoria brought Ethan as her date.
Ethan wore a sharp, dark suit with an unbuttoned collar, looking ruggedly handsome beside Victoria, who looked breathtaking in an intricate white lace gown with a deep neckline, her hair styled in an elegant updo.
As they stepped onto the deck of the yacht, whispering swept through the high-society crowd.
Daniel Parker was also there, having bought a cheap networking ticket. Seeing his brother standing beside the queen of Portland finance sent a wave of jealousy through him.
Daniel intercepted them near the bar, champagne glass in hand.
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"Well, well. Look at the baker playing high society," Daniel sneered loudly enough for nearby investors to hear. "Tell me, Ethan, did you bring sourdough samples for Sir Richard? Or are you just leeching off Victoria's empire?"
The surrounding crowd turned to watch the drama unfold.
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