PART 3 — The Empire Falls
The next morning, every financial news channel carried the same headline.
NOVAgen CEO Removed After Trust Clause Activated.
Ethan watched the broadcast in disbelief.
His company accounts were frozen.
His executive badge no longer worked.
Even the penthouse he claimed as his own belonged to the trust.
Lauren finally understood.
"You told me she'd never wake up."
"I thought she wouldn't."
She grabbed her purse and walked out without another word.
Hours later...
I entered the NovaGen boardroom in a wheelchair.
I was pale.
Weak.
But alive.
Every director stood as I entered.
The chairman slid a resolution across the table.
"Miss Caldwell..."
I interrupted him.
"My maiden name."
"Harper."
He smiled.
"Welcome home, Ms. Harper."
The vote was unanimous.
Ethan Caldwell was removed as CEO.
May you like
His replacement...
was me.
