Chapter 6 - The Apex Gala
Three days later, the grand ballroom of the Drake Hotel was filled with five hundred of the most influential tech executives, politicians, and socialites in Chicago for the Midwest Tech Founder of the Year Gala.
Darius Holt had spent two years angling for this award. Even with his corporate suspension looming, he had used every favor he was owed to ensure his name remained on the nominee list. He believed that if he stood on that stage, accepted the trophy, and projected absolute strength, the board would be forced to reinstate him and Apex Capital would have to re-negotiate.
Darius stood near the velvet-roped VIP section, sipping champagne, wearing a high-collared tuxedo designed to hide the red burn marks on his throat. He forced smiles, shook hands, and pretended the rumors circulating through the city were nothing more than malicious gossip.
Suddenly, the crowd near the main entrance parted. Whispers swept through the room like a sudden draft.
Darius turned, his glass freezing halfway to his lips.
Noel walked into the ballroom.
She looked breathtaking. She wore a custom, midnight-blue silk gown with an open back that exposed her flawless posture. Her hair was swept up into an elegant chignon, and while her lip bore a faint, delicate scar, her face was radiant, unbothered, and utterly dominant. Walking at her side was Marcus Vance, the managing director of Apex Capital, and two uniform officers from the Chicago Police Department’s Financial Crimes Division.
Darius’s heart plummeted into his stomach. He set his glass down on a passing tray and marched toward her, his face flushed with rage.
“What are you doing here, Noel?” Darius snarled in a low voice as he reached her. “This is my night. I had security ban you from the guest list!”
“You don't own this event, Darius,” Marcus Vance said, stepping forward with his arms crossed. “And as of twenty minutes ago, you don't own Holt Table either.”
Darius blinked, his eyes darting frantically between Marcus and Noel. “What are you talking about? The board hasn't voted!”
“The board didn't need to vote,” Noel said smoothly, stepping close enough for Darius to smell the subtle jasmine perfume he used to buy for her. “Leila handed over the master keys to your offshore accounts two days ago. She gave the SEC full documentation of your wire fraud, your tax evasion, and your embezzlement.”
May you like
Darius turned deathly pale. “Leila... Leila wouldn't do that.”
“She did,” Noel said. “Because unlike you, Darius, she recognized when the ship was sinking.”
