Chapter 1
The polished marble floors of the Moretti Holdings lobby usually echoed with the frantic energy of morning business, but today, a suffocating silence had fallen. Employees in tailored suits froze near the dark stone reception desk, their eyes locked on the tableau unfolding before the brass elevator doors. Claire Bennett Moretti stood with absolute stillness, her pale-blue long-sleeved dress contrasting with the cold, corporate environment. Her long, wavy blonde hair was pinned elegantly into a braided crown, and a white quilted handbag hung from a gold chain on her shoulder. She gripped the handles of two silver suitcases. Opposite her stood her husband, Vincent. Tall, broad-shouldered, and muscular, he wore a gray button-up shirt with rolled sleeves, his dark wavy hair slightly disheveled. Just behind him, wearing a fitted burgundy blazer dress, was Sophia Carter.
Claire stopped the suitcases in front of him.
"You told the entire company?" Vincent asked, his voice low, struggling to maintain his composure under the weight of a dozen watching eyes.
Claire held his gaze. She didn't raise her voice, but her words sliced through the quiet lobby. "Five nights, Vincent."
Sophia stepped closer, her fingers tightening slightly around Vincent’s sleeve. "It was work," she said, her voice trembling just enough to sound desperate.
Claire didn't turn her head, but her eyes shifted briefly toward the brunette. "Then keep his luggage."
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Vincent took one measured breath, glancing nervously toward the watching employees. "My father wants the truth."
Claire released the suitcase handles, letting them stand beside him. "Good. Ask him who called me first." She turned and walked toward the revolving doors, leaving Vincent staring at her retreating back. Sophia looked from him to Claire, her carefully constructed composure beginning to fade.
