Chapter 2 — The Truth Behind the Fortune
Nathan helped his mother, Eleanor Ashcroft, into the seat of honor that had quietly been reserved for her all along.
The guests looked at one another in disbelief.
How could no one have recognized her?
Nathan answered before anyone dared ask.
"My mother stopped wearing expensive jewelry years ago. She prefers people to reveal themselves before they know who she is."
Veronica's breathing became uneven.
She had spent years trying to secure an investment from Ashcroft Industries.
Now she had publicly humiliated the company's matriarch.
Nathan looked toward Emma.
"What is your name?"
"Emma Carter."
"You were the only person who stood beside my mother."
Emma lowered her eyes.
"I only did what anyone should have done."
Nathan smiled sadly.
"Unfortunately... almost nobody did."
As applause slowly spread across the ballroom, Veronica quietly slipped away, hoping no one would notice.
But Eleanor stopped her.
"Please stay."
Veronica froze.
The older woman's voice carried no anger.
May you like
"Tonight isn't about revenge."
"It is about character."
