Chapter 23

The notice of Wesley's removal as Valentine Corp's CEO circulated company-wide the next day. Simultaneously, Wilson's divorce papers arrived at Pearl's doorstep. Though based in Opal Bay, Wilson retained absolute authority. Pearl called him in tears, demanding to know why he wanted a divorce. The voice on the other end was icy. "Look what you've done to our children—one throws away everything for love, the other's become an irrational mess. And you dare ask me why? "Besides, if you hadn't lied to Mabel, would things have come to this? The Wood family had issued an ultimatum. Unless I address your harassment of Mabel, our partnership will come to an end." Pearl's hands shook around the phone. She couldn't understand how things had spiraled so badly. Hadn't she just wanted her son to recover from his depression? One lie, and she'd destroyed everyone. Clutching her chest, Pearl wept bitterly, consumed by regret. When news reached Mabel about Wesley's dismissal and Pearl's confinemen