Chapter 25 - The Ultimatum
William slowly turned back to face the remaining members of the Sterling elite.
The room was deathly quiet. No one dared to breathe too loudly, let alone speak. They had just watched the most powerful woman in their social circle be systematically annihilated and thrown onto the street in less than ten minutes.
"Let me make this perfectly clear,"
William said, his dark eyes sweeping over his uncles, his aunt, and the board members.
"Chloe is the lady of this house. The child she is carrying is the sole heir to everything we own."
He walked slowly toward Uncle Richard, who stiffened instinctively.
"If anyone in this room ever speaks a single disrespectful word about my wife,"
William continued, his voice vibrating with lethal intent,
"If anyone attempts to contact Eleanor, or offer her financial assistance..."
He let the threat hang in the air, heavy and absolute.
"You will not just be cut off. I will personally dismantle your lives, liquidate your holdings, and ruin you. Is that understood?"
"Perfectly, William,"
Uncle Julian answered instantly, his voice trembling slightly.
"We are entirely behind you and Chloe. Eleanor's actions were unforgivable."
William looked at the terrified faces of the household staff standing by the velvet drapes.
"Maria,"
William called out softly.
"Yes, Mr. William?"
May you like
Maria answered, stepping forward nervously.
"You are now the head of the estate staff. Double the salary for everyone in this room. And ensure my mother's remaining belongings are burned in the incinerator by morning."
