Chapter 16 - The New Empire
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The champagne popped with a sharp, celebratory crack.
Julian poured the golden liquid into two crystal flutes, handing one to me. We were standing on the private balcony of my office, the freezing winter air biting at our skin, looking out over the glittering Chicago skyline.
“To the queen,” Julian toasted, clinking his glass against mine.
“To a very profitable partnership,” I replied, taking a sip. The champagne was cold, dry, and perfect.
It had been exactly one week since Ethan signed the surrender papers. The transition was brutal but efficient. I had immediately fired the entire executive board of Parker Industries, replacing them with hungry, brilliant managers from my own ranks.
The Parker name was currently being scrubbed from the city.
“Did the demolition crew start today?” Julian asked, leaning against the balcony railing, the wind ruffling his dark hair.
I nodded, a genuine smile spreading across my face. “They did. The Parker name has officially been ripped off the side of their corporate headquarters. By Monday, a new sign will go up.”
“Riverstone Tower,” Julian mused, tasting the words. “It has a nice ring to it. And what about the family estate? Have Margaret and Daniel moved out?”
“They vacated yesterday,” I said, looking out at the city lights. “They moved into a two-bedroom apartment in the suburbs. My mother actually sent them a housewarming gift. A beautiful, hand-stitched navy blue blanket. I think Margaret might have actually screamed when she opened the box.”
Julian laughed loudly, the sound echoing off the glass walls. “Remind me to never cross your mother.”
“You shouldn't,” I agreed.
Julian set his champagne glass down on a small patio table. He stepped closer, closing the distance between us, the cold air suddenly feeling very warm. He reached out, wrapping his arms around my waist, pulling me flush against his chest.
“So, Parker Industries is dead,” Julian murmured, his lips brushing against my forehead. “Your mother is thriving. Your revenge is complete. What does the brilliant, terrifying Claire Bennett do next?”
I looked up into his hazel eyes, feeling a rush of excitement for the first time in months that had nothing to do with corporate warfare.
“I think I’d like to take a vacation,” I whispered, wrapping my arms around his neck. “Somewhere warm. With you.”
May you like
Julian smiled, leaning down to kiss me, his lips warm and demanding.
But before the kiss could deepen, the shrill, urgent ringing of my private cell phone shattered the quiet moment.
