Chapter 3 - The Boardroom Queen
Monday morning arrived, and I woke up feeling a nervous energy that I quickly transformed into resolve.
I dressed in a sharp, tailored white suit, a stark contrast to the subdued pastel dresses Julian always preferred me in.
When my black SUV pulled up to the towering glass headquarters of Vance Global Shipping, cameras were already flashing.
News of Eleanor’s will had leaked to the press, and the financial world was in an absolute frenzy.
I ignored the reporters shouting my name and strode confidently through the lobby, flanked by security.
When I pushed open the double doors of the executive boardroom, the entire room fell dead silent.
Twelve older men in dark suits stared at me, their faces a mix of skepticism and blatant hostility.
At the head of the table sat Julian, looking smug, having somehow talked his way into the building.
“Elena, sweetheart, this is a board meeting for serious business,” Julian sneered, leaning back in his leather chair.
“Why don't you go shopping and let the adults handle the transition of power?”
I didn't break eye contact as I walked slowly down the length of the long oak table.
“Mr. Sterling, please remind my soon-to-be ex-husband who owns the chair he is currently warming,” I said.
The lawyer cleared his throat and looked at Julian with a mixture of pity and annoyance.
“As per the trust documents, Elena Vance holds seventy-two percent of voting rights,” Sterling announced.
“She is the undisputed Chairwoman of the Board and the acting CEO.”
I stopped right next to Julian, looking down at his suddenly pale face.
“Get out of my chair, Julian, or I will have security drag you out by your expensive tie,” I whispered softly.
He swallowed hard, looking around the room for support, but the board members awkwardly averted their eyes.
Realizing he was completely defeated in his own arena, Julian stood up and stormed out of the room.
May you like
I took my seat at the head of the table, folded my hands, and smiled at the remaining men.
“Now, gentlemen, let’s discuss the future of my company.”
