Chapter 11
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Marcus did not storm into the Thorne Industries headquarters. Instead, he arranged a meeting with Julian Vance at the most neutral, highly public, and intimidating location he could think of: The Century Club. It was an exclusive members-only establishment frequented by the city’s most elite judges, politicians, and old-money families.
Julian arrived precisely at noon, looking incredibly smug in a tailored Italian suit. He was a man who enjoyed the aesthetics of power more than the actual responsibilities.
Marcus sat at a corner table in the grand dining room, nursing a glass of sparkling water. He didn't stand when Julian approached.
"Marcus," Julian smiled, sliding into the leather chair opposite him. "It’s good to see you. I must admit, I was surprised to receive your invitation. I thought you were entirely focused on changing diapers these days."
"Cut the act, Julian," Marcus said, his voice smooth but laced with a lethal edge. "I know about the audit. I know about the frozen trust fund. You are playing a very dangerous game."
Julian feigned innocence, raising his hands defensively. "I am simply doing my fiduciary duty to the shareholders, Marcus. There were some... irregularities during your final months as CEO. The Rossi payout, the massive security expenditures. The board demanded an investigation."
"The board demanded nothing. You orchestrated it to trigger the Morality Clause," Marcus countered, leaning forward slightly. "But freezing a charitable trust meant for NICU families? That is a new low, even for you."
Julian leaned in closer, dropping the friendly facade. His eyes were cold and ambitious.
"You got weak, Marcus. The second that woman and her baby entered your life, you lost your edge. You aren't fit to lead this empire anymore. Walk away quietly. Sell me your shares at a discount, and I will make the audit disappear. Your family will have enough money to live comfortably on some island, and I will take Thorne Industries to the next level."
"You couldn't run my company if I handed you a manual," Marcus said with absolute disdain.
"We will see about that," Julian sneered. "I have meetings scheduled all week. By the end of the month, you won't even own the name Thorne."
Marcus didn't raise his voice, but the intensity in his eyes made Julian involuntarily flinch.
May you like
"You crossed a line when you targeted my daughter's trust, Julian. I built this company, and I can tear it down. Enjoy the view from my chair while it lasts."
Marcus stood up, threw a hundred-dollar bill on the table for a drink he hadn't finished, and walked out of the club, leaving Julian sitting in a sudden, chilling silence.
