Chapter 41 - The Final Threat“Let her go, Vance,” Emily ordered calmly.
The security guards released Josephine’s arms, but positioned themselves firmly between the enraged woman and the kitchen island.
Josephine stumbled forward, completely stripped of her aristocratic mask. She looked exactly like Margaret had in the end—cornered, terrified, and violently lashing out.
“You arrogant, manipulative little maid’s daughter!” Josephine shrieked, her voice echoing off the marble counters. “My creditors are seizing the estate today! The bank took my accounts! I have nothing! You stole my family’s legacy!”
“I didn't steal anything, Mother,” Alexander stepped forward, his voice cold and devoid of any familial warmth. “You spent it. You gambled it away a decade ago and tried to use my marriage to cover your crimes. Emily simply turned on the lights.”
Josephine looked at her son, tears of absolute rage spilling over her cheeks.
“I did it for you, Alexander! For our name! We are royalty in this city! We do not answer to people like her!” She sneered, glaring at Evelyn, who stood quietly near the stove.
Evelyn didn't look intimidated. She looked at Josephine with profound, genuine pity.
“Royalty is an illusion, Josephine,” Evelyn said softly. “It’s just a story you tell yourself so you don't have to feel bad about the people you step on. But when the money is gone, you’re just a person in a room, entirely alone.”
The words hit Josephine like a physical blow. The absolute truth of her isolation finally crashed down upon her.
“I will sue you for defamation!” Josephine threatened desperately, grasping at straws. “I will drag this foundation through federal court!”
“You have no money for lawyers, Josephine,” Arthur said, stepping into the kitchen, holding a thick legal file. “And if you attempt a frivolous lawsuit, I will hand this forensic audit directly to the IRS. You won't just be bankrupt; you’ll be indicted for tax evasion.”
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Josephine froze, her mouth opening and closing silently. The trap had closed on every side.
“Get out of my house,” Emily commanded, pointing toward the heavy front doors. “And if you ever come near my family again, I will personally ensure you spend the rest of your life in a cell next to Margaret.”
