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My husband slapped me in front of the whole charity gala, then wrapped his arm around his mistress and sneered, “Apologize to her, or get out.” I touched my burning cheek and smiled through the tears, because the three men standing silently behind him weren’t guests. They were my brothers—the judge, the billionaire, and the police captain—and none of them had moved yet. / Chapter 7 / 10

Chapter 7 - Rats on a Sinking Ship

Vanessa sat in a dimly lit, upscale hotel bar, her hands trembling as she brought a martini glass to her lips. She jumped when the chair across from her was pulled out.

Julian Vance sat down, looking perfectly relaxed in a bespoke charcoal suit. He didn't order a drink. He just looked at her.

"How did you find me?" Vanessa whispered, terrified.

"Vanessa, I own this hotel," Julian said calmly. "I know everything. I know about V-Holdings. I know about the millions of dollars currently sitting in an offshore account with your signature on it."

Vanessa’s face went paper-white. "I didn't know! Adrian told me it was just tax optimization! I didn't know he was stealing from the charity!"

"Ignorance isn't going to save you from a twenty-year federal sentence," Julian said, his voice devoid of sympathy. "My brother Caleb is drafting the arrest warrants as we speak. When the feds kick down your door, they won't care about your Instagram following."

Tears streamed down Vanessa's face, her glamour completely dissolved. "Please. What do you want? I'll do anything. I'll give you whatever you want."

Julian leaned forward, his eyes turning to ice. "I want Adrian. I want every text message, every recorded phone call, every email he ever sent you regarding his finances, and I want you to testify that he physically forced my sister into isolation. You give me that, and I make sure the FBI gives you immunity."

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Julian stood up, adjusting his cuffs. "Have it at the precinct in one hour. If you warn him, I won't just let the FBI take you. I will personally ensure you spend the rest of your life answering to me."

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