“Ladies and gentlemen, tonight we award the most significant development project of the decade. This project demands vision, integrity, and innovation. That is why the contract has been awarded unanimously to Bennett Architecture, led by Olivia Bennett.”
The room erupted in applause.
At Daniel’s table, panic spread instantly. He understood what it meant—without that contract, he was finished.
But it wasn’t over.
As Olivia returned to her seat, federal agents entered the room and walked straight toward Daniel.
“Daniel Hayes, you are under arrest for fraud, forgery, and money laundering.”
Chaos exploded. Cameras flashed. Chloe screamed as Daniel was handcuffed.
“This is a mistake!” Margaret shouted. “Olivia, tell them this is a mistake!”
Daniel broke free for a second and rushed toward Olivia.
“Olivia, please! They’re taking everything! The baby is coming—please stop this!”
She stepped closer, calm and composed.
“You took five years of my life,” she said quietly. “You mortgaged my future. You replaced me and let your mother humiliate me. You built everything on my work—but you forgot one thing.”
She leaned in slightly.