Hazel's POV
"The vote failed," Marcus said three days later, stepping into our living room with an exhausted but genuine smile. "Every single shell firm withdrew their proxy support within hours of the press conference. Gerald's shareholder challenge collapsed completely."
Relief flooded through me so completely my legs nearly gave out, and Julian pulled me instantly into his arms, both of us laughing with something between exhaustion and disbelief.
"And Gerald himself," Julian asked, still holding me close.
"Facing criminal charges," Marcus confirmed. "Attempted murder, conspiracy, financial fraud. His lawyers are already discussing a plea deal, though given the evidence, I doubt it will spare him much."
"And Penelope," I asked quietly.
"Her cooperation was formally noted," Marcus s
