Julian panted heavily, resting his hands on his hips while glaring down at Valerie.
Julian: Call whoever you want, but nobody is coming to save you today.
Valerie tapped the screen twice and placed the smartphone directly against her right ear.
The call connected on the very first ring, echoing slightly in the quiet room.
Mr. Howe: Good afternoon, Miss Vance. How may I assist you today?
Valerie kept her eyes locked on Julian's trembling face as she spoke into the mic.
Valerie: Mr. Howe, freeze every Sterling family account.
Julian's eyes widened instantly as the name registered in his mind.
Mr. Howe was the head trustee of Vance Global Enterprises, the largest banking firm in the state.
The Sterling family business had been relying on an anonymous trust fund for five full years.
Julian's heart hammered against his chest as the terrifying realization began to settle in.
Julian: Wait... what did you just call him?
Evelyn stood up so fast that her heavy chair scraped loudly against the marble floor.
Evelyn: Julian, what is she talking about?
On the line, the senior trustee did not hesitate for even a fraction of a second.
Mr. Howe: Right away, ma'am. Including the primary corporate line and the personal allowances?
Valerie spoke with a cold, calm expression that sent a chill through the room.
Valerie: Yes, effective immediately. Cut them all off.
Julian reached across the table, his arrogance vanishing in an instant.
Julian: Valerie, please! Don't freeze our money!
Clara dropped her phone onto the tablecloth as sheer panic overtook her features.
Clara: Is she serious? Is she the owner of Vance Global?
Julian's mouth dropped open in total horror and shock as his entire world collapsed around him.
He realized that the quiet woman he had insulted was the actual owner of everything they owned.
The mansion, the luxury cars, and the family business were all secured by her private trust.
Julian: Valerie, we can talk about this! Put the phone down!
Valerie slowly lowered the phone from her ear, ending the call with a single tap.