Chapter 6 - The Counterstrike
While Julian wept, the media narrative Chloe had tried to spin was rapidly unraveling.
At 8:00 PM, Marcus released a carefully worded, legally bulletproof press release to the major Denver and Aspen news outlets, as well as several high-society blogs.
The headline read: Highridge Lodge Reclaims Estate Amidst Financial Fraud Concerns.
The release didn't call Chloe a gold-digger outright, but it didn't have to. Marcus eloquently detailed the activation of the morality clause and attached the public records of Richard’s impending bankruptcy. He outlined that the wedding was canceled not out of jealousy, but to protect the Highridge Family Trust from predatory financial maneuvers.
My phone rang again. This time, it was Richard. I ignored it.
"They are imploding," Marcus said, walking back into the office, showing me his tablet. "Richard's investors saw the press release. Two of the key dignitaries just chartered flights back to New York. The merger is dead."
Julian finally lifted his head. His eyes were red, his expression utterly hollow. "It was all fake. Everything she said to me. Every smile. Every kiss. It was just a transaction."
"That is the danger of chasing people who believe they are above everyone else, Julian," I said softly, finally walking over and placing a hand on his shoulder. "They view relationships as ledgers. You were an asset. The moment your value dropped, you were liquidated."
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"I'm so sorry, Mom," he choked out, leaning into my touch. "I was so stupid. I was so arrogant. I treated you like garbage because I wanted to impress people who are nothing but parasites."
"You made a mistake," I said. "A colossal, arrogant mistake. But you are my son. I will not let you fall into ruin. However, things are going to change."
