CHAPTER 12: THE SHADOW PARTNER
CHAPTER 12: THE SHADOW PARTNER
The document felt heavy in my hands, the ink smelling of fresh printing and corporate malice.
My father was behind bars, his assets frozen, his reputation completely ruined. And yet, from the dark interior of his cell, his ghost was still reaching out to tear down our sanctuary.
“This land is registered under a private company name,” Chelsea said, stepping forward.
“A company my father never controlled,” she asserted.
Vance offered a small, chilling nod.
“The company belonged to your grandfather,” Vance admitted.
“But your father forged his co-signature on the indemnity clause in 2002,” he revealed.
“Apex Mining Group has just acquired that debt,” he added.
“If the outstanding balance of four million dollars isn't settled by the first of the month...”
“...the state authorizes an immediate foreclosure and asset liquidation of this entire ridge.”
I looked back at our beautiful, small home with its wide glass windows.
The cage wasn't gone. It had just expanded its bars to encompass the entire mountain.
“Who runs Apex Mining Group, Vance?” I demanded, my teeth clenched.
Vance closed his folder with a sickening snap.
May you like
“Your father’s old shadow partner,” he whispered.
“Marcus Sterling.”
