The Call Boy I Met in Paris – Episode 43
Sophie’s father delivered the ultimatum as though it were a business term: divorce Justin, marry Derek, and the Swift Company might survive. He expected fear to accomplish what parental authority had not.
Sophie looked at Justin. Their marriage had begun with cash and desperation, but the man beside her had defended her when her own family treated her like an asset.
“No,” she said.
Her father stared at her. “You do not understand how serious this is.”
“I understand perfectly. You want me to spend my life with a man who betrayed me because his money is useful to you.”
“Derek can stabilize the company. This man can do nothing.”
Sophie’s anger sharpened. “Justin has done more for me in days than Derek did in years.”
Her father struck the table with his palm. The plans trembled beneath his hand. “Pride will destroy everything your mother built.”
Using her mother against her hurt more than the insult. Sophie forced herself not to flinch. “Do not pretend this is what she would have wanted.”
“Then tell me your solution.” He gestured toward the drawings. “Paper cannot pay debts.”
Sophie lifted the signed portfolio and opened it to the final page. “A three-year partnership with Lake Enterprises can.”
For the first time since entering, her father had no immediate answer.
“We signed today,” Sophie continued. “Maple Plaza is only the beginning. We can save the company without Derek.”
Justin watched pride replace the pain in her face. She had earned this victory herself, even if his hidden influence had opened the door.
Her father examined the signatures, searching for a flaw. “You think one contract makes you untouchable?”
“No. It makes me free to choose my own husband.”
She handed the folder back to Justin and faced her father without wavering. “I will never marry Derek. I would rather die first.”
Outside the open doorway, slow applause announced that Derek had arrived in time to hear every word.