Chapter 32 - The Hostile TakeoverDinner was a masterclass in passive-aggressive warfare.
The grand dining table, which had once seated the corrupt board of directors, was now set with fine china and crystal. Arthur sat to Emily’s right, acting as both legal counsel and a fiercely protective family friend.
Josephine swirled her wine glass, her eyes darting around the opulent room.
“It truly is remarkable, Alexander,” Josephine sighed dramatically. “To think that Emily manages an eighty-million-dollar endowment. It’s an enormous burden for a young woman with... no formal financial pedigree.”
“Emily’s pedigree is her absolute integrity, Mother,” Alexander defended instantly. “She’s doubled the foundation’s impact in three years.”
Josephine offered a patronizing laugh.
“Impact is wonderful, dear. But sustainability requires heritage. Old wealth understands how to protect itself. New wealth... well, new wealth tends to be emotional. Frivolous.”
Evelyn gently set down her fork.
“There is nothing frivolous about funding shelters for abused women, Josephine,” Evelyn said quietly, her voice carrying the undeniable weight of a survivor.
Josephine’s eyes flashed with annoyance. She hated being challenged by a woman she considered beneath her class.
“Of course not,” the mother-in-law conceded, though her tone remained icy. “But one must think of the future. When Emily and Alexander marry, the Blackwood name will be attached to this foundation. We must ensure the assets are properly shielded.”
Emily looked up, her gaze locking onto Josephine.
“Shielded from what?”
“From mismanagement, darling,” Josephine smiled, a predatory gleam in her eye. “I was speaking with my personal wealth managers today. They suggested that upon the marriage, the foundation’s assets should be rolled into a joint Blackwood-Carter trust. With a newly appointed, balanced board of directors, of course.”
The room went dead silent.
Arthur nearly choked on his wine.
Emily didn't blink. The mother-in-law wasn't here for a family dinner. She was here for a hostile takeover.
“The foundation’s assets belong to the victims we serve, Josephine,” Emily stated, her voice razor-sharp. “They will never be rolled into a private family trust. And the board remains under my unilateral control.”
May you like
Josephine’s smile vanished.
“We shall see about that, dear.”
