Chapter 4 - The Fortress of Beaumont
While Northstar Vertex collapsed under financial pressure, Claire sat in the library of the Beaumont family estate in Greenwich, Connecticut.
The sprawling estate was protected by high stone walls and private security. For seven years, Claire had avoided staying here, wanting to build an independent life with Ethan without leaning on her family's massive wealth. Now, the quiet luxury of the library felt like a safe haven.
Her mother, Eleanor, placed a cup of warm tea on the table beside her. “The doctor just left, sweetheart. Your blood pressure is stabilizing, but you need absolute rest.”
“I know, Mom,” Claire said softly, staring out the window at the manicured gardens. “I just keep thinking... how did I miss it for so long?”
Miles walked into the room, tossing a tablet onto the couch. “Because he’s a master manipulator, Claire. He used your trust as a shield while he built his ego.”
“What is Dad doing?” Claire asked, noticing her father's absence.
Miles smiled, a cold, sharp expression. “Dad isn't just pulling our money out of Northstar. He’s reaching out to every major tech investor on the East Coast. By the time Dad is finished, no institutional fund will touch Ethan Blackwood’s name with a ten-foot pole.”
Claire closed her eyes, placing her palm against her stomach as her baby kicked gently. “I don't want revenge, Miles. I just want him out of my life.”
“Revenge is Dad’s department,” Miles replied calmly. “Your job is to stay healthy for my nephew. Let us handle the demolition.”
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A quiet knock at the library door interrupted them. A security guard entered, holding a massive arrangement of white roses and a handwritten letter.
“Mr. Blackwood sent these to the front gate, ma'am,” the guard reported. “He’s currently parked outside the main entrance, demanding to speak with Mrs. Blackwood.”
