Chapter 5: I've heard a lot about you.

The next morning, my bags were packed and ready for the trip to New York. My heart thudded in my chest as I remembered my purpose: I was going back to face the people who had killed me and stolen my fortune. I clenched my fists until my knuckles turned white, taking a deep breath to steady my nerves.

Don Julio was waiting for me outside, along with some of the staff.

"Take care,Elizabeth. Make the Alvarez name proud," he said, rubbing my hair affectionately before pulling me into a warm hug. The name Elizabeth sounded strangely comforting coming from him.

"Yes,Godfather," I replied.

The chauffeur opened the rear door for me.I waved goodbye to everyone, feeling a wave of emotion. Don Julio reminded me so much of my father.

Before I knew it, we had arrived at the airport, and I was boarding the plane to New York.

My mind raced with a torrent of thoughts.There was no doubt in my mind that Richard and Jessica had turned the company into their personal bank. I was going to make sure I put an end to their bastardly shenanigans.

---

The flight was smooth, and soon the plane touched down in New York. My private driver was waiting, and he swiftly took my bags. We drove straight to the company headquarters.

As I walked through the familiar glass doors, a hush fell over the main office. One by one, employees rose from their desks, greeting me with respectful nods and smiles. Their deference to the Alvarez name was clear.

Yet, I couldn't miss the subtle glances and whispered exchanges. Some employees studied me with unveiled surprise. The real Elizabeth had been wild and wayward; the woman standing before them now carried herself with a new air of authority and purpose.

I overheard their gossiping whispers. "She's so... different," one murmured. "Is that really Elizabeth?" asked another.

I didn't acknowledge them. I kept walking, my expression neutral and my gaze fixed ahead. I wasn't here for gossip. I was here for revenge.

I settled into the overwhelming grandeur of my new office. It was a corner suite on the top floor, a sweeping space that screamed of power. Sunlight flooded the room through immense floor-to-ceiling windows, framing a breathtaking view of the New York skyline. The floor was polished dark marble that reflected the light, and my desk was a vast, monolithic piece of gleaming ebony. Behind it stood a tall leather chair that felt less like furniture and more like a throne.

A soft knock at the door pulled me from my thoughts. "Enter," I said.

The door opened to reveal a young, efficient-looking woman. "Ms. Alvarez? I'm Maya, your new personal assistant. Welcome back."

"Thank you, Maya," I replied, my voice steady despite the storm inside me. "Please, bring me the company's financial files and all major transaction records for the last five years."

She gave a quick, professional nod and returned shortly with a heavy stack of folders. I spent the next hour poring over them, my fingers tracing the lines of numbers that told a story of betrayal. With each page, my suspicions hardened into cold, hard certainty. The discrepancies were glaring, the transfers bold and arrogant.

Finally, I closed the last folder and looked up at my assistant, my expression a carefully crafted mask of calm. "Maya, please schedule an immediate meeting with Mr. Richard Williams, the CEO of William's enterprises."

It was time to face the man who had stolen my life.

Maya looked slightly confused. "Of course, Ms. Alvarez. I'll reach out to Mr. Williams' secretary immediately. However, I should mention his schedule is extremely demanding."

"I understand," I said, my tone leaving no room for negotiation. "But this meeting is not optional. Ensure it is scheduled for tomorrow. Unfailingly. Tell his secretary it is a matter of utmost importance regarding the company's future."

Maya nodded, though her expression was still uncertain. "I'll try my best, Ms. Alvarez."

"Don't try," I said, a sharp edge to my voice. "Make it happen."

After she left, I leaned back in my chair, the soft leather groaning in protest. The rest of the day was spent plotting, my mind a whirlwind of strategies and contingencies. I would be ready for him.

---

The next morning, I dressed like a queen going to war. My suit was exquisitely tailored, a sharp, powerful shade of crimson, and my hair was pulled back into a severe, elegant chignon. Every detail was calculated to project an image of unshakeable authority. I was bringing my A-game.

A flustered but relieved Maya met me at the office door. "Mr. Williams has agreed to the meeting. He'll be here in half an hour."

A cold smile touched my lips. "Perfect."

When Richard finally walked into my office, I remained seated behind my desk, letting him approach me. His eyes widened almost imperceptibly as he took me in, a slow, predatory grin spreading across his face. He was completely smitten, just as I had intended. I maintained my perfect poise, offering him a cool, calculated smile in return.

This was the man to whom I had been married for five years. The man who had murdered me, stolen my entire fortune, and replaced me with his mistress. A wave of visceral disgust washed over me, but I fixed a steely smile on my face.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Ms. Alvarez," he said, his voice slick. He stared at me like I was a prize to be won, his gaze that of a horny beast. "I've heard a great deal about your godfather. He's a very successful businessman."

I rose slowly, extending my hand for a brief, firm handshake. "Well, it's nice to meet you too, Mr. Richard," I said, my voice sweet yet laced with steel. My eyes locked with his, and for a single, electric moment, I let the mask slip just enough for me to see the man I once loved-and the man who killed me-staring back. "I've heard a lot about you, too."

Chapter 6:Fire On the Mountain

"I'm sure you're wondering why I requested this meeting," I said, my voice steady.

A faint smile touched his lips. "I was intrigued, I must admit. I hope this doesn't sound presumptuous, but I'd heard you moved in different circles, with... other interests. So, a business meeting was a surprise. Though, a welcome one. It's an honor to be here with you."

A soft chuckle escaped me. "Appearances can be deceiving. I've been following your recent pivot at Legacy Holdings, actually. That move into sustainable tech was... bold. I've been doing some research on your company." I watched his face carefully.

A glint of pride flashed in his eyes. "You've been following us? I'm flattered. It's a risky play, but the potential is massive."

"I agree. The potential is immense," I echoed. "Which is precisely why I didn't want to see it hampered by... well, by the recent noise." I smoothed the sleeve of my shirt, letting the word noise hang in the air between us.

Richard's smile tightened almost imperceptibly. "Noise?"

"Oh, you know how the markets are," I said, taking a deliberate sip of my coffee. "Whispers about liquidity. Concerns from smaller investors. It's a shame, really. A visionary project like yours shouldn't be distracted by such short-term doubts."

"It's nothing I can't handle," he said, his tone turning slightly defensive.

"I have no doubt," I replied, my voice a soothing balm. "But why handle it alone?" I leaned forward, my tone becoming conspiratorial and friendly. "I want to help solidify that foundation, Richard. I want to make a significant, long-term investment in Legacy. I'm prepared to acquire a major stake. Think of me as your new anchor."

Richard studied me, his businessman's instinct warring with his ego. I had known him for five years; he was always shrewd in business. The offer was too good to refuse, but the source made him wary.

"A major stake... that's a substantial show of faith," he said slowly. "May I ask why? We're competitors in some areas, after all."

I gave a light, melodic laugh. "Business is a dance, Richard, not a war. I invest in people and vision. And I believe in your vision for Legacy." I paused, letting my eyes lock with his. "It feels like a company with a... profound history. It deserves to be protected, don't you think? To have someone watching over it who truly understands its value."

A flicker of confusion passed over his features. The way I said "profound history" and "watching over it" seemed to land with a strange weight, sending a subtle, cold shiver down his spine. Is she just talking about finances? he wondered.

"Your interest is... remarkable," he conceded. "The board would need to approve, of course."

"Naturally. I've already sent the preliminary briefing to them." I smiled again, a warm, disarming expression that I made sure didn't quite reach my eyes. "They seemed... very receptive. They understand the value of stability. This is a partnership, Richard. I help you silence the noise, and together, we ensure Legacy's future is as bright as it deserves to be. After all, it's the least a company with such a... strong foundation deserves."

He rubbed his temples lightly, a gesture I remembered from when he was processing a complex deal. "You seem to have had this all planned out. Your offer is quite remarkable. I can't possibly refuse, can I?" he said, a smirk playing on his lips.

I offered a serene smile in return.

"Well..." he began, his own smile turning overtly flirtatious. "If you don't mind, I'd love to have a drink with you tomorrow. To celebrate our new... partnership."

I feigned a soft, considering sigh. "I'll give you an answer on that later this evening. But for now, I'll have to consult my schedule."

He nodded as he stood. "It was a pleasure discussing business with you, Ms. Alvarez. I'll be expecting your reply later, then."

I rose as well, straightening the cuffs of my Louis Vuitton shirt. "Of course, Mr. Williams." We shook hands, and he left.

I watched his retreating figure, a potent mix of disgust and accomplishment swirling within me.

He had walked right into the trap he thought he was setting.

I was going to seduce him, piece by piece, until he lost all sense of reason. I could already feel the pull of his attraction.

A wide, wicked smile spread across my face.

"Richard, Richard... I already have you in the palm of my hand."

---

Later that evening, Richard's car pulled up to the curb of his house. He took out a cigarette, lit it, and took a long, slow puff. His thoughts drifted back to Aurora, and a slight smirk tugged at his lips.

He took a deep breath before finally opening the car door. He hoped his wife, Jessica, wouldn't create another nagging episode tonight; he was utterly exhausted.

He entered the house and found the living room dark and empty. Making his way to the liquor cabinet, he poured himself a finger of whiskey and gulped it down in one burning swallow.

He headed upstairs to his bedroom and found Jessica there, perched on his bed and fastening a very sexy piece of lingerie. Her breasts almost spilled out of the tiny bra. She stared at him, her gaze heavy with seduction.

Richard heaved a long, weary sigh.

"I'm not in the mood,Jessica. Just go back to your room," he said, untying his tie. His face was laced with irritation and exhaustion.

"Come on, Richard. We haven't made love in three weeks. My body needs your touch, baby. I want you," she purred, rubbing his back and biting his earlobe.

Richard rubbed his temples.

"What part of'I'm not in the mood' don't you understand?" His tone sharpened. "I had a long day. I'm exhausted, and I need to rest."

Jessica let out a scoff, then went over the bed and sat down. She unhooked her bra, her perky breasts were now in full sight.

‎"I want you Richard", she said as she flicked her nipple, her eyes laced with lethal seduction.

‎Richard couldn't resist anymore, as he felt himself getting hard.

‎He rolled his eyes and went over to Jessica, grabbing a fistful of her hair, as he pulled down his pants.

(Aurora)

I stood by the large glass window in my room, my sleek nightgown swaying in the breeze. I took a slow sip of champagne, my thoughts fixed on Richard.

I checked the time: 9:05. A smile curled on my lips. A gut feeling told me he was fucking that wife of his right about now. I could just tell.

I opened my messages, tapped his name, and typed:

Hey Richie, so regarding your offer for a drink tomorrow, I accept. One drink can't hurt, can it? See you then.

My thumb hovered for a second before I pressed send.

A mischievous grin flashed across my face.

There is going to be fire on the mountain tonight.