Chapter 8 - Cutting Ties
The fallout from the canceled engagement was immediate and aggressive. The following morning, Daniel sat in his mahogany-paneled study, fielding furious phone calls from Victoria's father, a ruthless corporate titan with deep pockets.
"You're making a massive mistake, Sterling," the older man threatened through the speakerphone. "You need our supply lines. You cross us, and your operations at the docks will grind to a halt."
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Daniel leaned back in his leather chair, swirling a glass of amber liquid. "I built my empire in the dark, Arthur. I don't need your supply lines; I tolerated them as a courtesy. If you attempt to block my shipments, I will dismantle your company piece by piece before Friday."
He hung up before the man could respond. Daniel had spent his life surrounded by violence and manipulation. He had built his wealth by being colder and smarter than the monsters he dealt with. But witnessing cruelty inflicted on a defenseless, pregnant woman in his own home had crossed a line he didn't realize he possessed. He was done playing polite society's games.
