Chapter 8 - Whispers in High Places
Word of Julian’s complete transformation could not be contained within the valley. The business press began running features on the radical revival of Oakhaven, praising Sterling Infrastructure for innovative community reinvestment.
However, the society columns were less charitable. Whispers circulated at charity galas in the city: Julian Sterling had lost his mind, living among tradesmen and elevating his former housekeeper to an executive director.
Victoria Vance could not tolerate being discarded, nor could she stomach the idea that Julian had found purpose outside her orbit.
One afternoon, she arrived at the Oakhaven construction site in an immaculate luxury SUV. Stepping out onto the muddy plywood pathways in designer leather boots, she marched into the site office where Clara was reviewing electrical conduit manifests.
"So this is where the help plays architect," Victoria said, leaning against the doorway with folded arms, her lips curved into a spiteful smile.
Clara didn't flinch. She set down her highlighter and stood up straight behind the desk. "Can I help you with something, Miss Vance? Hard hats are required past the gravel line."
"Save the performance, sweetie," Victoria sneered, stepping closer. "Julian is using you to punish me and irritate his brother. Once this little charity hobby loses its novelty, he will return to his world. And where will you be? Back to scrubbing baseboards for twenty dollars an hour."
Clara looked at Victoria—at the perfect makeup, the pristine coat, and the venomous insecurity burning behind her eyes. For the first time, Clara felt no intimidation whatsoever.
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"Mr. Sterling didn't hire me to hurt you, Miss Vance," Clara said in a calm, level tone. "He hired me because I see people, not balance sheets. The difference between you and me isn't the clothes we wear; it's that I don't need someone else's misfortune to feel tall."
Victoria’s hand rose as if to strike, but a shadow fell across the threshold.
