“Yes. You know I’ve been putting this off for years.”
“Yes.”Because of me.Because of the scandal. He never said it outright, but he didn’t have to. It was obvious.
He needed to restore faith in the company. And only he could do it.
Vale Global always had a name, but he spent forty of his fifty-nine years turning it into what it is today… adding theGlobalto the nameand the power that came with it.
“Of everything you’ve done to reclaim your reputation, I believe this move will seal it.” He studies me for a beat. “If all goes to plan, you’ll have the board and our investors eating out of the palm of your hand. Which means I can finally step back and let you take the reins. Leave everything in your capable hands.”
My God.Things are moving faster than I expected. “My plans will go well.”
Dad smiles. “I have no doubt, son. Once I head to Europe, you’ll take the lead here with Dorian as Chief Operating Officer. Locke and Levi can stay in the hedge fund division, with a view to running it in a few years. Those boys still have a lot to prove to me, and to the board. But I thoughtyoushould know my plans.”
I dip my head in gratitude. “Thank you.” Now I have something more to work for.
“Keep me posted.”
“I will.”
He extends his hand to shake mine. I take it, and my mind tracks back to Isla Monroe.
Poor girl. She’s probably pacing her apartment, trying to figure out how to escape the trap her father built around her.
She can't.
Which means she's mine now, whether she wants to be or not.
I don’t know if it’s revenge or desire, but I can’t wait to watch her surrender to me.
Chapter Three
Isla
Article I— Purpose of Agreement
This agreement is entered into voluntarily for the purpose of resolving outstanding financial obligations arising from John Monroe’s personal debt to Knox Vale, secured against the property located at 1120 Park Avenue (the Monroe family restaurant).
In accordance with those terms, the parties agree to the following:
Enter into a legally binding marriage that shall remain in effect for a minimum term of six (6) months.
Upon completion of the contractual term, either party may dissolve the marriage without further obligation or penalty, provided all other clauses of this agreement have been fulfilled.
Should either party terminate the marriage or breach any term prior to the completion of the ContractualTerm, all financial benefits outlined herein shall be forfeited…
I stop reading and slide the contract across the kitchen counter.
