Chapter 3

3

That afternoon, after my workout, I drove straight to the Sterling Group headquarters.

As soon as I walked in, I heard some assistants gossiping in the breakroom.

"Did you see? The Chairman's future son-in-law is here. He's actually pretty hot."

"Stop it! Are you sure?"

"Of course! The whole company is talking about it. Apparently, the boss's daughter is crazy about him."

"The Chairman even opened a new department just to collaborate with his company. It's basically just giving him free money."

I hadn't worked at the family company since I graduated college.

My mother, Victoria Sterling, didn't pressure me. She said I should gain experience outside first.

She figured I'd be ready to take over once I matured a bit.

I didn't expect that while I was away, rumors about me would be flying through the entire building.

Back in the day, Harry was very driven. He wanted to succeed on his own to give me a good life.

To protect his pride, I had kept my identity a secret.

My mom agreed with the plan. She thought it was a good way to test his character.

Not long ago, she finally gave her approval.

"I've watched him for years. Harry seems reliable. Let's start planning the wedding. Bring him over to meet me soon."

But before I could tell him everything, he dumped me.

I strolled into the Chairman's office and pushed the door open without knocking.

Someone suddenly stood up from the sofa, startling me.

It was Harry. He was dressed in a high-end suit, looking like a completely different person.

Everything clicked. I was the "heiress" he was talking about.

I knew the truth, but clearly, he had no idea.

He frowned and blocked me at the door.

"How did you find this place? Are you a stalker? I told you to stay away from me!"

"Get out of here right now! Don't you dare ruin my meeting with my future in-laws!"

I looked at him with amusement. "I'm curious. You used to care so much about your pride. Aren't you afraid people will call you a gold digger?"

"You're so stupid. The Sterling heiress fell for me at first sight. She's obsessed with me."

"After we marry, this whole empire will be mine. Do you really think a woman could handle a company this size alone?"

"Oh, I get it. You're planning to take over her family's hard work."

Harry's face turned a deep shade of red. He pinned me against the wall and punched the space right next to my head.

"If you don't leave now, the next one is hitting your face!"

I didn't flinch. I just kept going. "What makes you think a woman can't handle it? Half of your company's success came from me."

"And isn't the Chairman of the Sterling Group a woman? Did you forget that?"

He let out a scoff. "Stop flattering yourself. My company would run fine without you."

"And sure, the Chairman is a woman, but everyone knows there's a powerful man behind her pulling the strings."

A cold, commanding voice suddenly cut through the air. "Oh? Is that so? Do women always need a man to succeed?"