Part IV: The Reckoning
Augusta closed her eyes, took a sharp breath, and nodded. The puzzle had clicked. She knew exactly who I was.
She turned to Brenda. “You did not just insult this young woman. You spat on her heritage. You threw a piece of Russian Imperial history on the floor. You’ve disgraced the Sterling name far more than a thousand failed deals could.”
Then to Alex. “You stood by while a woman of this caliber, your intended wife, was humiliated. You, with Sterling blood, showed no honor. You are a coward. Unfit to lead this family—or a company.”
Finally, back to me, her expression softening with what felt like kinship. “Anastasia,” she said, the name heavy and right, “if after this… grotesque… display, you still wish to marry into this impulsive family, then we have much to renegotiate.”
She extended her arm—to me, not Alex. A gesture of solidarity, a transfer of power. “Let us leave them to their embarrassment. You and I have much to discuss about the future of the Sterling family board. A woman of your lineage understands the importance of a strong dynasty. It appears I may have finally found a worthy successor.”
