Chapter 49

Elena’s POV The room suddenly felt too small. One second ago, Bella and Mark had been standing tall, acting untouchable. Now the air shifted, and fear slipped through their cracks. Their confidence drained fast, leaving them stiff and exposed. Philip tilted his head, studying them like a bad investment. “I’m curious,” he said calmly. “Where’s your brother in all this? Or does he usually let you burn his company without stepping in?” Bella’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Eric has more important things to deal with.” Philip chuckled. “Lucky timing, then.” He slipped his arm around my waist, firm but easy. “Guess I’ll take something valuable before he notices it’s missing.” As he guided me toward the exit, my eyes caught the torn contract on the floor. White paper. Black ink. Months of sleepless nights reduced to scraps. My chest tightened. I didn’t stop walking, but the regret followed me like a shadow. When we reentered the banquet hall, the noise hadn’t died down. Guests whispered, s