CHAPTER 169: SHADY DEALS

MARIE "Harper, you need to get here now." My voice cracked, barely hiding the panic rising in my chest. "What happened? Are you okay?" Harper's voice was sharp, laced with concern. She always knew when something was wrong, even over the phone. "I don't know how to explain it over the phone, just… please. I need you here," I replied, gripping the receiver as though it was my last link to sanity. There was no hesitation. "I'll be there in twenty." When Harper walked into my office, I could feel the dam inside me begin to crack. I had been holding it together for so long, managing the business, caring for Angelica, and digging through the lies surrounding my father's empire. But Harper's familiar face, calm and steady, almost undid me. "Marie, what's going on?" Her eyes scanned me, taking in every detail like she could piece together the truth by looking at me. I slumped back in my chair, letting out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding. "It's everything, Harper. It's been buil