My father sat at the head of the table, his impeccably tailored black suit enhancing his imposing presence, while his grim expression cast a shadow over the entire conference room, freezing the atmosphere.
The board members' gazes were fixed on the three of us, a palpable tension hanging in the air.
"It seems my wayward daughter has finally decided to show her face," my father said coldly, a hint of mocking amusement playing at the corners of his mouth.
Drake stepped forward calmly, positioning himself protectively in front of me. "Mr. Ivan, your little tricks should come to an end now."
"Oh?" My father suddenly laughed, a chilling sound reminiscent of winter's frost. "In that case, why don’t we take a look at something interesting first?"
The blue light from the projector pierced through the dimly lit room, illuminating a document displayed on the screen—a stock transfer agreement.
"This is..." My voice trembled slightly as I clenched my fists, feeling them grow pale from the pressure.
"The shares your foolish mother left you," my father sneered, a glint of triumph in his eyes. "They are now firmly in my possession."
Suddenly, Linda stepped out from behind me, her high heels clicking sharply against the floor. "Mr. Ivan, I’m afraid you’re going to be disappointed."
With graceful movements, she retrieved a USB drive from her briefcase. "This contains not only evidence of your misconduct but also... some even more intriguing materials."
A collective gasp echoed through the conference room as I watched my father's face drain of color in an instant.
"You traitor!" he shouted, slamming his hand on the table, his voice trembling with rage.
Drake spoke calmly, "Ladies and gentlemen of the board, Drake Group is willing to acquire shares from the Smith Family at a 30% premium. Meanwhile, I suggest we review this evidence immediately."
"Not a chance!" my father roared, though a flicker of panic crossed his eyes.
I took a deep breath and looked directly into my father's eyes. "Dad, for all these years, you've been playing a game of chess, but you forgot that I'm not just a pawn; I'm your daughter."
The recording of my mother’s last words echoed in the conference room: "Ivan Smith, promise me you'll let Lucy pursue her own life..."
My father slumped heavily into his chair, as if he had aged ten years in an instant.
Three hours later, the board unanimously passed a new resolution, and my father was removed from his position as chairman.
"Dad," I approached him softly, "I know you meant well, but everyone has the right to choose their own happiness."
He lifted his head, and the ice in his eyes finally melted. "Lucy, perhaps... I have been too stubborn."
I embraced him tightly, years of estrangement dissolving into warm tears in that moment.
Drake stepped beside me and gently wrapped his arm around my shoulder. "It's all over now, Lucy."
I leaned against him, feeling the strength of his embrace, filled with a sense of peace and warmth.
As the sun set, I stood on the top floor of the company, watching the skyline of Manhattan gradually light up with brilliant lights.
This city witnessed my growth, saw how I broke free from my shackles and gained a life that truly belonged to me.
My father began to learn how to let go, discovering a new way to love, and our relationship slowly started to mend.
Drake became my strongest support; together we marched forward, unstoppable in the business world.
This is not the end, but a new beginning. I finally understand that the greatest victory in life is becoming my true self.
Comment 0 Comment Count