Chapter 3 - Morning at Vanguard
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The morning sun broke through the gray Seattle fog, illuminating the sleek glass façade of the Vanguard Architects tower in the heart of the financial district.
On the top floor, inside the grand presentation suite, the mood was triumphant. Banners featuring high-resolution renders of the Riverbend Commons development draped from the ceiling. Trays of vintage champagne and gourmet pastries lined the mirrored tables.
Julian Rhodess stood near the podium, adjusting his silk tie in a wall mirror. He looked pristine, every hair combed into place, radiating the effortless charm of a corporate visionary.
Eleanor was circulating through the room like a queen inspecting her court, flanked by Mila, who was dressed in a designer blazer she had bought using the joint trust account.
“Julian, darling,” Eleanor said, stepping up to her son and straightening his lapel. “Today is the day the Rhodess name becomes untouchable. Once the institutional investors sign the equity agreement, Vanguard will be valued at over two hundred million dollars.”
Julian offered a tight, nervous smile. “I just wish Leah hadn't made such a scene last night, Mom. If she goes to the local press with some sob story about our divorce, it could cause minor public relations noise.”
Eleanor scoffed loudly, waving her hand in complete dismissal. “Let her talk! Who is going to listen to an unemployed, bitter ex-wife? She has no money, no firm backing her, and no influence. She’s probably huddled in some cheap motel room right now, crying into her pillow.”
Mila laughed, sipping her mimosa. “She took a folder of old paper, Julian! She actually thought she was threatening us! It was so pathetic.”
At that moment, the double glass doors of the boardroom swung open.
The room’s chatter quieted slightly as senior board members and lead investors from Capital Horizon filed into their assigned leather chairs around the massive conference table.
Julian took his place at the head of the room, tapping the microphone to capture everyone's attention.
“Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed board members, and valued partners,” Julian began, his voice echoing smoothly through the speakers. “Welcome to the future of urban architecture. Today, Vanguard presents our crown jewel—Riverbend Commons.”
The heavy blackout curtains automatically lowered, and the massive projection screen lit up with breathtaking 3D animations of the sprawling multi-billion-dollar waterfront complex.
“This project,” Julian declared dramatically, placing his hand over his heart, “represents six years of my personal design philosophy, my blood, and my unyielding vision for this city.”
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Before the applause could begin, a calm, authoritative voice cut through the darkness from the back of the room.
“Is that so, Julian? Because according to federal records, you couldn't even draft a load-bearing wall without my notes.”
