chapter 23
242 Words
Marcus, armed with Victoria's stolen secrets, launched a hostile takeover of Alex's company.
Alex received the news like a punch to the gut. "How could this happen?"
His business partner, James, looked grim. "Someone on the inside must have leaked our plans."
Alex's mind raced. Who could be behind this?
Meanwhile, Emily's memories began returning in fragments.
"Alex, I remember Victoria," Emily said, her voice laced with unease. "She was...different."
Alex's expression darkened. "What do you mean?"
Emily hesitated. "I'm not sure. But I think she's connected to my past."
As Alex dug deeper, he discovered Victoria's web of deceit.
Emily's words hung in the air like a challenge. "I think Victoria's connected to my past."
Alex's eyes locked onto Emily's, searching for answers. "What do you mean?"
Emily's voice trembled. "I remember fragments...Victoria, my family...a tragedy."
Alex's grip on Emily's hand tightened. "Tell me everything."
Emily's eyes closed, memories flooding back.
"I was 17," Emily began. "My parents died in a fire. Victoria was there, arguing with my father before the blaze."
Alex's face paled. "Victoria was involved?"
Emily nodded. "I've been trying to remember. She was my father's business partner. They were embezzling funds...and something went wrong."
The truth hit Alex like a tidal wave. Victoria's betrayal ran far deeper than he'd imagined.
Suddenly, Emily's eyes snapped open. "Alex, I remember something else."
"What is it?" Alex urged.
Emily's voice barely above a whisper. "Victoria's my sister."
Alex's world crumbled.
- Writer
