Chapter 7: The First Lesson

Alexander found Scarlett in the library the next morning, surrounded by files from her grandfather's private archive. Sunlight fell across her dark hair, and for a moment she looked less like a wounded heiress and more like a queen studying maps before war.

'You should rest,' he said.

Scarlett did not look up. 'I rested for two years while they stole my life.'

Alexander's mouth curved slightly. 'Fair.'

She pointed to a document. 'My trust released three million dollars last year for medical care. I never received private therapy after the first six months. Where did the money go?'

'Evelyn's shell foundation.'

Scarlett froze. 'You already know?'

'I investigate before I move.'

'Then why not expose them immediately?'

Alexander walked to the table and placed another file in front of her. 'Because revenge done emotionally creates martyrs. Revenge done strategically creates ruins.'

Scarlett studied him. 'Is this my first lesson from the Godfather?'

'Yes. Never attack when your enemy expects anger. Attack when they expect weakness.'

The words settled inside her like steel.

Later that afternoon, Alexander arranged for a specialist to visit her. Dr. Helena Cross was direct, calm, and unimpressed by wealth. She examined Scarlett's medical records and frowned.

'Who told you your condition was hopeless?' Dr. Cross asked.

Scarlett's heart stopped. 'My family doctor.'

'He lied. Recovery may be difficult, but impossible? No.'

Scarlett gripped the armrest of her chair. 'Are you saying I could walk again?'

Dr. Cross held her gaze. 'I am saying someone stopped your treatment too early.'

Alexander's expression became lethal.

Scarlett looked down at her legs, feeling hope and rage twist together. Her family had not only taken her inheritance. They had taken her chance.

When she looked up, her voice was quiet.

'I want everything back.'

Alexander nodded. 'Then we begin today.'