Chapter 6 - An Unexpected Ally
Charlotte and Elias finally reached the damp, dimly lit underground garage.
They stepped out from behind a utility door, scanning for Arthur's men.
Suddenly, headlights flared, blinding them both.
A sleek, bulletproof black SUV sped toward them and slammed on the brakes just inches away.
Charlotte braced herself, ready to fight for her life.
The tinted window rolled down, revealing a handsome man with sharp, aristocratic features and piercing blue eyes.
It was Liam Sterling, the billionaire CEO of Vanguard Industries.
He was also Vanessa's older, estranged brother.
"Get in," Liam commanded, his voice urgent.
"Arthur’s men are sweeping the exits."
Charlotte hesitated, narrowing her eyes.
"Why should I trust a Sterling?" she demanded.
"Your sister just tried to wipe the floor with me."
Liam scoffed, unlocking the doors.
"My sister is an idiot who cares only about shoes and champagne," Liam said.
"I care about business, and Arthur Vale is destroying the local market."
"Plus, I heard you fired Julian Vance, which makes you my new favorite person."
"Get in the car, Charlotte, or you can stay here and get shot."
Elias nodded at Charlotte, and they both hurried into the back seat of the armored SUV.
Liam slammed his foot on the gas, tearing out of the parking garage just as Arthur's armed thugs rounded the corner.
Bullets pinged harmlessly off the reinforced glass of the vehicle.
They merged onto the busy city highway, disappearing into the neon-lit night.
Charlotte let out a massive breath, sinking back into the leather seat.
"You owe me one, Vale," Liam said, looking at her through the rearview mirror.
"What do you want, Liam?" Charlotte asked, knowing a billionaire never did favors for free.
"I want Vanguard Industries to handle all of Solmere's international shipping contracts once you take your throne back," he replied smoothly.
Charlotte smiled in the dark.
May you like
"If you help me crash Arthur's gala tomorrow," she said.
"You have yourself a deal."
