Two Months Later
The Volkov Corporation glittered like a palace of glass and gold.
Crystal chandeliers burned overhead. Soft music flowed through the air. Champagne glasses clinked as powerful men in tailored suits and women in designer gowns filled the hall.
A celebration.
On the surface.
Leonid Volkov stood at the center of it all, dressed in black, calm, confident—his lips curved in a polite smile that never reached his eyes.
Acting CEO.
The title echoed in every congratulation, every raised glass.
Nearby, Adrian laughed easily, his arm wrapped around Isabel's waist. She leaned into him like she belonged there, dressed in red, glowing with victory. Cameras flashed. Whispers followed them everywhere.
"They look perfect together," someone murmured.
Isabel smiled wider.
This was the life she wanted.
And Damian was gone.
---
One Week Earlier – A Private Restaurant
The restaurant was quiet, exclusive. No cameras. No noise.
