Beneath the Billionaire's Shadow

r steps echoed as she crossed the lobby, her heels clicking against the marble floors. She approached the

ceptionist stammered, her voice

to keep her composure. "Thank you. Cou

nced at her reflection in the mirrored wall, studying her appearance. She looks different; stronger

's long-time board member and her father's trusted advisor, appeared. His

o see you. And about

ou, Charles. I'm ready to do this

nce feared but was now prepared to lead. Employees glanced up as she passed, their expression

ar, others new. She could feel their eyes on her, sensing their silent observation, the unspoken questions lingering in the air. They knew he

f each executive. "Thank you all for being here," she began, her voice calm but firm. "I know this may seem sudden, but I'm ready to take

nged glances, others nodded in approval. Harriet could sense doubt in a

Ms. Fidelis will be our new CEO. We'll be working closely together t

weight, and Harriet fe

t," Harriet said. "You've managed the company whil

t's your time now. The company, and every

weight of his words settling o

lone with her thoughts. The reality of her new role dawned on her, brin

harles standing in the doorway, his expression thoughtful. "Harriet,

asked, her brow fu

own interest in meeting with you ever since the announcement

name. "Darren Harvey? The one who's always

known for his cunning and ruthlessnes

se crossing her face. "The idea of m

an't avoid him. That would show w

I know. I won't run from

e complicated than that. He's the type who see

k you for letting me

pride in his eyes. "I know you will, Ha

es left, his support another reminder that she wasn't alone on this journey. But as she left th

etting comfortable, a message from a familiar number popped up on her phone. She glanced at the screen, her heart racing

her phone as she fought the wave of anger that surged within her.

ssing down on her. Just as she was about to leave her office, Harriet's phone b

?" The voice

is is Ha

ot to discuss, and I hope to meet you soon. I

nded. Leaving her with a sense of dr