Chapter 7 - The Aftershock
The silence in the ballroom lasted for three full seconds before an explosion of chaotic noise erupted.
Some donors began to clap, sensing the shifting winds of corporate power and wanting to align themselves with the victor. Others—particularly the old-guard board members tied to Megan Price—sat frozen, their faces pale with panic as they realized their own backdoor deals were about to be dragged into the light.
Evelyn stood paralyzed under the glaring stage lights.
*Executive Vice President.*
It wasn't just a seat at the table. It was the entire table. It was the power to clean house, to protect the vulnerable, to ensure that no other young employee would ever be pushed into the shadows so a corporate parasite could steal the spotlight.
Andrew turned off the microphone, placed it back on the stand, and looked down at her with a soft, undeniable warmth in his eyes.
"Well?" Andrew asked quietly, a corner of his mouth curving upward. "Do you accept the promotion, Ms. Morales?"
Evelyn swallowed hard, her heart pounding with a thrilling, terrifying rush of adrenaline. She lifted her chin, meeting his gaze with absolute, unyielding clarity.
"Only if I get to fire the remaining three department heads who signed off on Megan's purge," she replied, her voice steady and razor-sharp.
Andrew threw his head back and laughed—a rich, genuine sound that echoed through the silent, waiting hall.
"Consider it done," he said.
May you like
As they walked off the stage amidst a thunderous wave of applause, Evelyn knew her life would never be the same again. But as Andrew’s hand remained firmly, possessively linked with hers, she realized she didn't want it to be.
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