CHAPTER 2 â âThe Truth Beneath the Sterling Nameâ

Victoria stepped away from the marble table, gripping the document like it might burn her.
Liam followed her with his eyes. âMother⊠what does it say?â
She didnât answer immediately.
Instead, her gaze locked on Averyâsharp, searching, unsettled.
Avery didnât look away.
That was what made it worse.
Finally, Victoria spoke, voice controlled but thinner than before.
âThis document⊠revisits an agreement made before Leoâs birth.â
A murmur barely began to rise in the crowdâbut died instantly under Victoriaâs presence.
She continued.
âAn agreement I believed secured the future of this family.â
Liam frowned. âWhat agreement?â
Victoria hesitated.
For the first time in years, she did not have immediate control of the room.
Avery stepped forward slightly, calm but firm.
âThe agreement that tried to decide Leoâs future without me.â
Silence hit harder than any shout.
Victoriaâs grip loosened just slightly.
Because Avery wasnât accusing.
May you like
She was confirming.
And that made it undeniable.