The Final Trap
Chapter 08 - The Final Trap
Three days passed in peaceful bliss at the coastal estate. Grace’s shoulder healed rapidly, Lily’s fear vanished into bright, cheerful laughter as she played along the sandy beach, and Nathan spent every waking moment getting to know his brilliant, curious four-year-old daughter.
However, back in the city, the storm was far from over.
On Thursday morning, Mr. Vance arrived at the coastal manor carrying a high-priority federal summons.
“Senator Vance and Victoria are launching a desperate last-ditch effort, Nathan,” Mr. Vance reported, setting his briefcase on the study desk. “They’ve filed an emergency petition in federal court, claiming that your father’s secret codicil was forged by me, and demanding a court-mandated custody hearing for Lily.”
Nathan’s expression darkened instantly. “They still think they can take my daughter?”
“They’re bluffing to force a monetary settlement,” Vance explained. “Senator Vance knows his political career is ruined if the public finds out the truth. He wants you to give him back his thirty percent voting proxy in exchange for dropping the lawsuit.”
Nathan stood up from his desk, walking over to the window, watching Grace and Lily flying a colorful kite on the beach below.
“He wants a court hearing?” Nathan asked, a cold, dangerous smile spreading across his lips. “Give him one.”
“Nathan, a public trial will drag Grace’s name through the media again—” Vance began.
“We’re not going to a trial, Vance,” Nathan interrupted, turning around, his eyes flashing with brilliant, calculating intellect. “We’re going to a public press conference on the steps of the Federal Courthouse tomorrow at noon. Invite every news camera in the state.”
May you like
Vance frowned, confused. “What are you planning?”
“Senator Vance thinks he’s the only one who knows how to manipulate the media,” Nathan said coolly. “Tomorrow, I’m going to officially introduce the new owner of Cole International to the world.”
