Chapter 4 - Shadow in the Library
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Rain poured against the floor-to-ceiling windows of a upscale downtown cafe. Victoria sat in a dark leather booth in the back, wearing oversized sunglasses and a silk headscarf.
A sharp-dressed man with slicked-back hair sat down across from her, sliding a manila folder across the table.
"Did you get what I asked for, Carter?" Victoria asked, her voice hushed.
Carter picked up his espresso, taking a slow sip. "Your mother-in-law is paranoid, Victoria. She doesn't use the main family bank accounts for her personal affairs. She operates through a private trust managed by a boutique firm in Boston."
Victoria tapped her acrylic nails impatiently. "Cut to the chase. How much is in the trust?"
"Over fifteen million dollars in liquid assets, plus the deed to the mansion," Carter replied. "But here’s the kicker... she met with her estate attorney yesterday afternoon."
Victoria’s heart skipped a beat. "Why? What did she change?"
"My source inside the law firm couldn't get the full final draft," Carter said, leaning in closer. "But she’s planning a total restructuring of her assets. If she signs those papers, every single penny goes into a foundation, completely locking you and Edward out."
Victoria’s knuckles turned white as she gripped her designer handbag. "She wouldn't dare. Edward is her only child!"
"She knows you're drowning in debt, Victoria," Carter warned coldly. "The loan sharks I introduced you to are getting restless. If they don't see five million by the end of the month, they won't care that you're married to a Vance. They'll come for your skin."
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Victoria pulled a heavy gold bracelet from her wrist and shoved it across the table into Carter’s hand.
"Find out when those legal papers are being delivered to the house," Victoria ordered, her eyes burning with ruthless intent. "I'm not going to let a dying old hag ruin my life."
