Chapter 15 - The New Reign
Julian lunged forward, reaching beneath his tailored jacket for a concealed pistol.
Mateo fired instantly, a single round tearing through Julian’s right shoulder. The older brother stumbled backward, crying out in pain as he collapsed against the panoramic window overlooking the sunrise. His gun clattered across the floor.
Damian walked forward, the heavy boots of his armor echoing in the dead silence. He unrolled the gold-threaded parchment Arthur had given him and slammed it flat onto the center of the mahogany table.
""The real will of Arthur Vance,"" Damian declared, his eyes sweeping across the trembling board members. ""Julian Vance is officially disinherited for corporate treason and attempted murder. His shares are null and void.""
Damian tapped his earpiece. ""Arthur. Bring her up.""
The private executive elevator chimed. The silver doors slid open, and Elena stepped into the boardroom, flanked by Arthur Cole and Sophia. She wore a dark, elegant coat that covered her bandaged frame, her posture regal and unbroken. In her arms, fast asleep beneath a soft blanket, was baby Leo.
The directors looked at the infant, then back at Damian, the resemblance between father and son undeniable.
Julian lay on the floor, clutching his bleeding shoulder, staring up at Elena with venomous hatred. ""You think you’ve won? The Bratva... they won't stop until this entire city burns!""
Damian crouched down beside his fallen brother, his face cold and merciless. He leaned in close, whispering so only Julian could hear:
""Viktor Kozlov's body is already at the bottom of the gorge, brother. And by noon today, every asset you ever owned will belong to my son.""
Damian rose, turning back to the board of directors. He took his place at the head of the table, Elena standing proudly at his right hand.
""The vote is canceled,"" Damian said, his voice cutting through the silence of the dawn. ""The Vance Empire has a new heir. And if anyone in this room has an objection, you may leave through the doors—or through the windows.""
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Not a single director moved.
Outside, the sun finally broke through the storm clouds, illuminating the horizon in gold. But in the quiet shadow beneath the table, Julian's trembling hand brushed against his wristwatch, subtly clicking the concealed emergency transmitter hidden inside the bezel."
